Laser Cutting and Engraving Plastic: the Ultimate Guide

Plastic is one of the most common materials we use in our daily lives. Laser cutters can cut and engrave plastic with incradible precision. But the problem is not all types of plastics are suitable for laser cutting and engraving. 

In this article, we will explore how laser cutting and engraving plastic works, the types of plastics you can work with, and the types of laser cutters you can use for plastic. We will also share some common project ideas of laser cutting and engraving plastic.

How Does Laser Cutting and Engraving Plastic Work?

Laser cutters use a beam of light to cut or engrave plastic. The energy of the laser beam is so high that it vaporizes the material. After importing a design file into the laser cutter software, the software guides the laser beam to move on the plastic according to the designed path.

The difference between laser cutting plastic and laser engraving plastic is the depth of cut and the amount of material removed by the laser beam. Laser cutting slices through the plastic along the designed path that completely vaporizes the material along the cut line, thereby dividing the plastic into multiple pieces, while laser engraving only removes a thin layer from the plastic's surface, creating a depression or a contrast.

What is the Best Plastic for Laser Cutting and Engraving?

Before you start laser cutting and engraving plastic, you need to be aware of the appropriate type, as some plastics release toxic gases when exposed to laser.

What Plastics Can Be Laser Cut?

Some of the common plastics you can cut and engrave using a laser cutter and engraver are,

• Polymethyl methacrylate (PPMA)(Acrylic)
• Delrin
• Mylar
• Polyimide
• Polyester
• Polyurethane
• Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)

Even though these plastics are safe for laser processing, you need to make sure the ventilation is proper and there are complete safety considerations. 

xTool S1 Enclosed Diode Laser Cutter

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What Plastics Cannot Be Laser Cut?

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a very common plastic, and it is used in a wide range of essential and daily used products. But you cannot cut it using a laser machine as it produces harmful smoke of hydrochloric acid, vinyl chloride, ethylene dichloride, and dioxin. All these vapors and fumes are corrosive, toxic, and carcinogenic, so your health will be at risk if you process them using your laser machine.

What Type of Laser Cutter Can Cut and Engrave Plastic?

Here's a breakdown of the most common types of lasers and their suitability for plastic:

CO2 Laser Cutters

These are the workhorses for plastic fabrication. Their wavelength is perfectly suited for efficiently cutting and engraving a wide variety of plastics. They deliver clean cuts and precise engravings on most plastics. For best results, consider a CO2 laser cutter with at least 40 watts of power.

xTool P2 55W CO2 Laser Cutter

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Diode Laser Cutters

Diode laser cutters(455nm) offer a more affordable entry point, but their capabilities for cutting plastic are limited. Bbecause of their wavelength, they can only cut and engrave opaque plastic. If your project involves mostly engraving or working with thin plastics, a diode laser may be sufficient. 

Infrared Laser Engravers

Similar to CO2 lasers, infrared lasers(1064nm) are also excellent choices for engraving plastics. They create sharp, high-quality engravings on a broad range of plastic materials. 

Laser Cutting and Engraving Plastic Project Ideas

Laser cutting and engraving opens up a world of possibilities. Here are just a few examples of laser cut and engraved plastic projects.

Laser Engraved Plastic Light

The plastic light is a mesmerizing piece of laser art. First you need to cut the acrylic in the desired shape and engrave the pattern you like. You can engrave names, pictures, or anything you like. Finally, place the acrylic sheet over the lamp base. Turn on the light, and you will see the mesmerizing reflection on acrylic. Beside being a decor item, it makes a great gift as well.

Laser Cut Plastic Wall Clock

Who says clocks can't be art? You can transform a simple plastic sheet into a stunning wall clock with a laser machine. Modern geometric patterns, floral motifs, or even a family photo – the possibilities are endless!

Laser Cut Plastic Cake Toppers

Make any celebration extra special with custom cake toppers. Laser cut shapes, names, initials, or even characters to add a unique touch to your cakes. These toppers are guaranteed to be a conversation starter at your next party.

Personalized Plastic Signs

Laser cutting and engraving lets you create custom signage for any purpose. You can create custom business signs, welcome signs for your home, or even personalized room signs for the kids. 

Airpods Engraving

Tired of mixing up your AirPods with others? Laser engraving lets you personalize your charging case. Add your initials, a monogram, or a fun design to easily identify your AirPods and add a touch of flair.

FAQs of Laser Cutting Plastic

1. How Thick of Plastic Can be Laser Cut?

The thickness of plastic that can be laser cut depends on the type of plastic and the power of the laser. For example, xTool P2 CO2 laser cutter can cut acrylic up to 20mm in one pass.

2. Can a Fiber Laser Cut Plastic?

Fiber laser engravers achieve great results for engraving plastic. But they're not recommended for cutting plastic.