Some answers to frequently asked questions and open issues of laser beam cutting

Abstract

Even established laser processing technologies such as cutting are far away from being completely understood. Nevertheless, the progress in industrially available laser cutting systems and applications is quite respectable. Fiber laser cutting changed from a debatable newcomer to a serious part of the business. Understanding of the process and its performance are continually improved. This paper highlights results of research and development from the recent years. Some speculations, simulations, diagnostics and facts about the process, its properties and capabilities are assessed.