4. Other processes

4.1 Laser cutting

Machining results from the thermal action of radiation, which vaporizes the material in a fraction of a second. Between the zone where the material has been vaporized and the zone that remains cold, there is a thermally-affected zone, more or less wide depending on the nature of the material and the process parameters. In this intermediate zone, there may be partial carbonization of the plastic. If the feed rate is too slow, for example when cutting thick sheets, this can lead to carbonization or ignition of the material at the edges of the machined zone. There is therefore a minimum feed speed to be respected, depending on the energy and nature of the material. Light-colored plastic parts often require finishing after cutting, as the laser leaves a visible trace...