In fiber laser cutting, cutting parameters need to change as material type changes. Stainless steel and galvanized sheet require noticeably different cutting approaches due to their distinct physical and chemical properties. In this article, we look at the parameter differences between these two material types.
Parameter Approach for Cutting Stainless Steel
Stainless steel has natural resistance to oxidation due to its high chromium content. However, this property needs to be preserved during cutting as well; otherwise unwanted discoloration and oxidation can occur at the cut edge.
Gas Selection
Nitrogen gas is generally preferred for cutting stainless steel. Nitrogen creates an oxygen-free environment, preventing the cut edge from oxidizing and producing a bright, clean surface.
Pressure and Speed
Cutting with nitrogen requires higher gas pressure than oxygen cutting to remove material from the cut line. While this somewhat reduces cutting speed, it's preferred for the sake of edge quality.
Parameter Approach for Cutting Galvanized Sheet
Galvanized sheet consists of a zinc coating applied over a steel surface. This zinc layer behaves differently during cutting and requires careful parameter adjustment.
Zinc Vaporization and Fume Management
During cutting, the zinc coating vaporizes, creating dense fumes. For this reason, an effective fume extraction system is critical in galvanized sheet cutting — it's necessary for both operator safety and cut quality.
Zinc Loss at the Cut Edge
During cutting, the zinc coating at the cut edge partially vaporizes, which can lead to a loss of corrosion protection at the cut edge. This can create a need for post-cut edge protection treatment (such as cold galvanizing spray), especially for parts intended for outdoor use.
Gas and Speed Settings
Either oxygen or nitrogen can generally be used on galvanized sheet; the choice depends on thickness and desired edge quality. High speed is important for quality results on thin galvanized sheet.
Key Differences Between the Two Materials
- On stainless steel, the priority is preventing oxidation; on galvanized sheet, it's fume management and edge protection
- Stainless steel is generally cut with nitrogen, while different gas options are evaluated for galvanized sheet based on thickness
- Additional ventilation and extraction requirements are higher for galvanized sheet cutting
- Surface brightness is the priority for stainless steel, while continuity of corrosion protection is the priority for galvanized sheet
DMK Makina's Material-Specific Parameter Approach
DMK Makina works with tested, material-specific cutting parameters for different material types including stainless steel and galvanized sheet. With advanced fume extraction systems and nitrogen/oxygen gas infrastructure, both operator safety and cut quality are kept at the highest level.
Serving manufacturers across the Thrace and Marmara regions, DMK Makina delivers optimized laser cutting across different material types, evaluating each project's material requirements together with its technical team.
