Although both fiber lasers and CO2 lasers can be used to process metals, they do differ in many ways. To be honest, with the development of laser technology, fiber laser is superior to carbon dioxide laser. Here is a brief comparison between the two laser technologies.
First, as far as the basic structure is concerned, the fiber laser beam mainly works through diodes and fiber cables, which is different from the CO2 laser that requires CO2 gas. In addition, fiber lasers are more compact than carbon dioxide lasers. All diodes and optical fiber cables can be integrated into a smaller space, so optical fiber laser cutting machines are usually smaller and can save a lot of work space.
In addition, what makes fiber laser stand out is its energy-saving performance. The obvious comparison can prove that it is more energy-saving than CO2 laser. When processing projects, the energy efficiency of fiber laser can reach 25% – 30%, while the energy efficiency of CO2 laser cutting machine is only 8% – 10%. From these data, you can easily find that compared with CO2 laser, fiber laser will save you more energy and money.
Comparison between fiber laser and CO2 laser
Last but not least, maintenance is also an important factor that cannot be ignored compared with fiber lasers and CO2 lasers. Generally, a CO2 laser needs regular or annual maintenance to replace parts or perform other operations, which may cost you more money each year. However, if you have an optical fiber laser, there is no need to replace its equipment or carry out frequent maintenance. As time goes by, it is difficult to calculate the cost of a CO2 laser, but you will get more from the fiber laser.
These comparisons certainly do not deny the advantages of CO2 laser systems. Here, we only provide you with a deep understanding of the rapidly developing optical fiber laser system in the modern laser industry, and have won the welcome of the global laser merchants.