How Deep Can a 100W CO2 Laser Engraver Cut?

If you work with wood, acrylic, or other nonmetal materials, you might wonder if a 100W CO2 laser is powerful enough for your projects. After all, it can both cut and engrave—but how deep can it actually go? And is it truly the right choice for you?

Cutting Capabilities of a 100W CO2 Laser

A 100W CO2 laser from Jowuey can typically cut up to about 10 mm (around 0.4 inches) in many nonmetallic materials, such as wood, acrylic, leather, or rubber. It can also engrave on glass and granite, though the depth for these harder materials is usually more shallow.

Note: If you want to mark or cut metals, you might need a fiber laser. CO2 lasers aren’t as effective on highly reflective metals.

Note: If you want to mark or cut metal, you might need a fiber laser. CO2 lasers aren’t as effective on highly reflective metal.

Factors That Affect Cutting Depth

1. Material Type and Density

Denser or thicker materials need higher power to achieve deeper cuts. Wood is often easier to cut than very hard materials like glass or ceramics. For instance, plywood can be cut up to 10 mm thick if you keep it under 100W power. Going beyond that can lower quality and cause more wear on the laser tube.

● Wood & Plywood: For 10 mm thickness, a 100W CO2 laser usually gives a clean cut. Thicker than that can be tricky.

● Acrylic & Plastic: A 100W CO2 laser can generally cut acrylic up to about 20 mm (0.7 inches). Beyond that, results may suffer.

● Leather & Fabrics: Leather is tougher, but a 100W laser still does well. Thinner fabrics like fleece or cloth are easier to cut.

● Paper & Cardboard: Thicker paper cuts more cleanly. Very thin paper can tear or burn quickly.

2. Laser Power and Speed

Jowuey’s 100W CO2 laser can run between 10% and 100% power (around 2-28 mA). Higher power plus slower speeds can slice through thicker materials. Softer or thinner materials need less power and faster speeds to prevent burns.

3. Focal Length and Beam Width

The focus lens shapes how deep the laser cuts. A narrower beam handles fine details but may not cut as deep in one pass. A wider beam cuts deeper and faster but loses some detail. A longer focal length can help achieve deeper cuts, while a shorter focal length is better for fine engraving.

4. Multiple Passes

When cutting very thick or dense materials, you might need to run the laser several times over the same spot. This prevents charring or incomplete cuts. Though it takes extra time, multiple passes can achieve a cleaner, deeper cut without damaging your material.

Get the Best Results with a Jowuey 100W CO2 Laser

A 100W CO2 laser from Jowuey can be a great addition to your workshop. It offers:

● Versatility for wood, acrylic, leather, rubber, and more.

● Adjustable power to match different thicknesses and materials.

Jowuey is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our 100W CO2 laser engraver and how it can handle your most demanding cutting and engraving jobs.