# Metal Laser Cutting Guide

![](/files/-MjDGTRxdmuLOaXCAlDO)

## Metal Laser Cutting

Laser cutting is a process where a laser is directed by computer software to cut or engrave various types of materials. The FabLab has a high-powered Kern LaserCell system which is able to process both metal and non-metal material in **sheet and cylindrical** stock, on which it is able to achieve three types of outcomes: 

| Operation  | Result                                                                                                                                                                   |
| ---------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ |
| **Cut**    | Vector lines burned through the material with a laser to create 'cuts'.                                                                                                  |
| **Etch**   | Vector lines engraved to create patterns on the material surface.                                                                                                        |
| **Raster** | Hatched/ filled areas engraved to create solid patterns on the material surface. Slower process involving the laser moving side-to-side to create a debossed appearance. |

All three outcomes can be combined in a single job to create intricate 2D parts (vector cut) with surface engraving (vector etch and solid raster).

### Why Use Laser Cutting?

Laser cutting can be used in the fabrication of architectural models, site models, 1:1 prototypes, decorative objects and more. The precision and speed of laser cutting enables clean outcomes and the production of parts which can be assembled into presentation-quality models for immediate use or further fabrication and model making.

Using the Kern LaserCell enables further laser cutting capabilities such as processing larger sheets, thicker materials and cylindrical stock.


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