How to lasercut plywood

Plywood sheets are available in various thicknesses between 1 and 40 millimeters. The standard size these sheets can be found in is 1 by 2 meters, this makes our BRM Open Bed laser machine the best option with its larger size when it comes to cutting plywood sheets. Not only is the work surface larger, but it is also more flexible than that of the closed laser machines. The table can be adjusted separately from the rest of the machine. Some models come with an automatic height adjustable work table, this allows the machine to be set to the correct focal height with the touch of a button. This is very useful when you often change materials with different thicknesses when cutting and engraving.

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Many possibilities with plywood

Many different kinds of plywood are tailored to the application of the finished product. For example, there is Construction plywood which is widely used in wood construction. The focus here is mainly on the strength of the material because the strength is more important than the appearance it’s mainly used for roof constructions, formwork or transport crates and packaging. When it’s used for furniture or countertops a veneer layer is often applied to make the plywood more visually appealing. The choice for the top-layer is usually based on the application, it can be used in kitchens, but also luxury yacht building. Special plywood has unique features that give the plywood a certain specific strength, this may include airplane and bulletproof plywood. Lightweight plywood can be used if a construction has to be firm yet lightweight. It’s mainly made of poplar wood. WPB plywood stands for ‘Water Boiled Proof’. It’s suitable for use in humid environments.

Laser Cutting Wood or Engraving?

The laser is fully controlled by a computer, which knows exactly what movements the laser needs to make to reproduce your design in detail. Using special software provided with the machine, you can create a cutting pattern for your designs. You then send this document to the computer. Place the desired wood on the work table of the machine, close the lid, and press the start button. The machine will then automatically laser the wood, resulting in a beautifully processed piece of wood in your hands. Laser cutting wood is thus a quick and efficient process.

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What Types of Wood Can You Laser?

The major advantage of a wood laser machine is that it can process a wide variety of wood types. The powerful laser has no trouble cutting both hard and soft woods. Additionally, it’s possible to laser pressboard and plywood, as well as natural woods. If you own one of these wood cutting machines, you’ll be able to cut the following wood types:

• Plywood
• Particleboard
• MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)
• HDF (High-Density Fiberboard)
• Solid wood
• Natural wood
• Timber
• Veneer
• Cork

It's important to keep in mind that each type of wood reacts differently to the laser. For example, cutting pressboard requires more energy than natural wood, and the texture of natural wood is often easier to work with. Therefore, the processing time will vary depending on the type of wood you choose. This is an important consideration when laser cutting wood.

The Benefits of Laser Cutting Wood

It’s possible to cut wood with a saw or milling machine, so why choose a laser machine? The answer is simple. A laser machine allows you to work more precisely, neatly, and quickly. This is all thanks to the computer-controlled laser, which follows your pattern down to the millimeter, enabling the creation of even the most detailed shapes. This also means that every piece of wood is cut in the same way, making mass production easy. All you need to do is replace the piece of wood in the machine, and the laser will follow the exact same pattern again.

Moreover, the laser doesn’t physically touch the wood. It’s a powerful light beam that cuts the wood using intense heat, meaning no friction occurs. This eliminates flying splinters and dust, making laser cutting of wood safer and a better choice. There’s no need to clamp the wood into the machine either, which helps prevent damage. This saves time and effort when laser cutting wood, while ensuring the end result is exactly what you envisioned.

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The Safety of Laser Cutting Wood

Laser cutting wood is a technique that comes in handy for various types of businesses, but how safe is it to use these machines? BRM’s laser machines are designed to be used in a hands-off manner for wood laser cutting. This means you won’t risk your hand coming into contact with the powerful laser. Most models are equipped with a lid that seals off the working area. Additionally, these machines produce relatively little smoke when cutting wood. This is because of the high temperature at which the laser operates. Any smoke that does occur is trapped by the lid and sucked away by the exhaust system, making laser cutting of wood a safe process.

When laser cutting wood, you also don’t have to worry about injuring yourself on rough pieces of wood or splinters. The laser creates a clean, smooth cut that feels relatively smooth to the touch. There are no flying splinters because there’s no friction between the wood and the laser. In short, laser cutting wood is a safe and clean process.

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Which Industries Benefit from Laser Cutting Wood?

A wide range of businesses benefit from owning a laser cutting machine for wood. In large factories, the technology is used to create individual parts that are then assembled. Sign makers also frequently use wood laser cutting to produce unique, custom-made signage. Other businesses that regularly laser cut wood include architecture firms, furniture makers, toy manufacturers, and artists.

Additionally, many schools now use wood laser machines to introduce students to the various methods of cutting wood. A wood laser machine is essential in the classroom. Students learn how to design their own creations, develop them digitally, and then turn their designs into tangible objects. The use of a wood laser machine is relatively simple and safe, thanks to the protective lid that seals off the laser. This makes it an excellent tool for beginners, enabling even students who are new to the technology to learn how to use a wood cutting machine.

Applications of Laser Cutting Wood

Laser cutting wood is a versatile technique that can be used in many ways. For countless projects, it’s important to create custom pieces of wood that are cut with millimeter precision. Laser cutting wood allows for the creation of detailed designs that are also easy to personalize. This technique is particularly useful for making:

• Furniture
• Models and prototypes
• Decorations
• Nameplates
• Signage
• Promotional gifts
• Art
• School projects
• Toys

What Does Laser Cutting Wood Cost?

Of course, cost plays a significant role in any process. It’s important to know whether laser cutting wood is an affordable option. However, determining the exact cost of laser cutting wood can be tricky, as it depends on several factors:

• How often you use the machine
• What types of wood you plan to cut
• Whether the machine will also be used to cut other materials

The more hours the laser machine operates, the faster individual parts will wear out. These parts will eventually need to be replaced, which represents the largest cost after the purchase of the machine. On average, you can expect maintenance costs of around €2 per hour of machine usage.

The price of the laser cutting machine itself is fixed, but it depends on the model you choose. BRM offers several models, each with different sizes. Generally, the larger the machine, the higher the price. However, you can save on costs by opting for a smaller model—just make sure the work area is large enough for the types of wood you want to cut. Installation and delivery costs are not included in the listed price.

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Which Laser Cutting Machine Is Best for You?

Before buying a laser cutting machine, it’s important to understand the specifications you need. Depending on the materials you want to cut and the required work area, you’ll have several model options to choose from.

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If you're unsure which model is right for your needs, feel free to come in for a no-obligation demonstration. During the demo, we’ll help you choose the right laser cutting machine, ensuring you don't overpay and get the best machine for your projects.

Wood Laser Cutting and Engraving with Laser Machines

A laser machine helps you cut or engrave many materials quickly and effortlessly. Our wood laser machines are hybrid, meaning you get both a laser cutting and a laser engraving machine in one. Whether you’re engraving metal or cutting leather, with a BRM laser machine, your tasks become a breeze. In our range, you’ll find various models of laser machines, differing in power, size, and price.

The most popular model is the Pro 1300, which is used by customers in various industries, including schools and architectural firms. If you’re looking for a machine with a larger work area, the Pro 1600 is the perfect choice. All our machines come with assembly and instruction included, so you can start laser cutting wood right away.

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A BRM Wood Cutting Machine

Are you looking for a high-quality laser machine that can cut a wide range of wood types? Then BRM machines are the right choice for you. BRM offers a wide selection of wood laser machines, each with its own unique features. You can opt for a machine with a closed cover, or choose from open-bed models. Each BRM wood cutting machine comes in different sizes, so you’ll always find a suitable model for your factory floor, workshop, or classroom.

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Do you have questions about the possibilities of wood laser cutting? Or are you seeking advice on using a wood laser machine? Feel free to contact BRM. We’re here to provide you with expert advice on wood laser cutting!