SYNRAD’s Firestar f400 laser combines high power and superb mode quality (TEM₀₀, 95% purity, M² <1.1 ±0.1) for superior performance in metal cutting applications. When cutting metal, power density, not wavelength, ultimately determines cutting performance.

As an example, we cut this shape from 0.102” thick mild steel with 400 watts at a speed of 70 inches per minute (IPM) while achieving a cleanly cut edge with no underside dross. Power density at the focal point is on the order of 49–52 MW/in², which is far above the 5 MW/in² threshold for vaporizing mild and stainless steels.

All cuts were made using a 2.5” positive meniscus lens. Spot size was 0.004” with a 0.07” depth of focus. Nozzle stand-off, the distance from the tip of the gas jet nozzle to the steel surface, was set to 0.045” and the nozzle ID measured 0.0345”. Oxygen gas assist at 80 PSI through the nozzle provided a flow rate of approximately 1.33 CFM.

Mild steel exhibiting a cleanly cut edge
with no underside dross