Theory

The theory section covers the fundamental principles and calculations behind laser cutting and engraving. Understanding these concepts will help you optimize your workflow and achieve better results.

It is especially relevant for diode laser cutters used for cutting and engraving wood, but the main concepts are valid for any laser type and material.

Articles

• Formula for Laser Cutting Speed - Understanding the principles behind laser cutting speed calculations.
• The Anatomy of a Diode Laser Beam - Why Focus Geometry Matters for Thick Materials.
• M² and Intensity Profile: Why Paper Math Fails in the Workshop - Understanding the limitations of theoretical calculations in practical laser cutting and engraving.
• Measuring Beam Quality M² - How to measure your laser's beam quality using a simple workshop experiment.
• Finding the Focus - How to measure your laser's focus using a simple workshop experiment.
• Effects of Laser Beam Aberrations on Your Cuts - How optical imperfections affect your laser cutting results.
• One Slow Pass vs. Multiple Fast Passes - Understanding the impact of single vs. multiple passes on material charring.
• Combining the Models: Why You Need Progressively Slower Speeds - Understanding the benefits of progressively slower speeds for optimal cutting and engraving.

Tools and Calculators

• Laser Beam Geometry - Calculate Rayleight range and divergence for your laser module.
• Laser Cutting Speed Calculator - Cutting speed calculator based on material, thickness, and laser power.
• Laser Focus and Beam Quality Calculator - Calculate your laser's focal spot size, focal offset, Rayleigh range, and M² factor based on kerf measurements.