Materials to Avoid When Laser Cutting

Hello LötLöwe,

When it comes to laser cutting, definitely avoid PVC and polycarbonate. PVC releases toxic chlorine gas when cut, which can damage your equipment and is harmful to your health. Polycarbonate tends to melt instead of cutting cleanly, leading to poor edges and potential fire hazards.

PVC: It’s best to completely avoid it. If you must use it, consider alternatives like laser-safe vinyl.
Polycarbonate: Try to use thin sheets (less than 1 mm) for better results, but even then, it’s not ideal for laser cutting. If possible, switch to acrylic, which cuts cleanly and safely.
Stick with materials like acrylic, plywood, and certain metals that are known to laser cut well.

Hello LötLöwe,

when it comes to laser cutting, you should definitely avoid PVC and Polycarbonate. PVC releases toxic chlorine gas when cut, which can damage your equipment and is harmful to your health. Polycarbonate tends to melt instead of cutting cleanly, leading to poor edges and potential fire hazards.

PVC: It is best to avoid it completely. If you have to use it, consider alternatives like laser-safe vinyl.
Polycarbonate: Try to use thin sheets (less than 1 mm) to achieve better results, but even then, it is not ideal for laser cutting. If possible, switch to acrylic, which cuts cleanly and safely.
Stay with materials like acrylic, plywood, and certain metals that are known to cut well with the laser.