Fiber lasers are 10 percent shorter than CO2 laser beams in wavelength. Because of its shorter wavelength, fiber lasers produce a beam that is easier to absorb by reflective materials. A CO2 laser's wavelength is less likely to reflect off these surfaces. This allows fiber laser cutting machines to cut brass, bronze, and other reflective material. A CO2 laser beam that reflects on the material can damage not only its cutting lens, but the entire beam path. This risk can be eliminated by using fiber-optic cables to guide the beam.
North America's premier magazine for the metal-forming and fabricating industries, The FABRICATOR, is THE FABRICATOR. The magazine contains news, technical articles, case histories, and other information that will help fabricators perform their jobs more efficiently. Since 1970, The FABRICATOR serves the industry.