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Quick Answer: Why Fiber vs CO₂?
Metals: Fiber (1070nm) absorbs 30-45% vs CO₂ 5-10% → Fiber wins | Organics: CO₂ (10.6μm) absorbs 90-95% → CO₂ only
Understand why different laser wavelengths work better for different materials. Calculate absorption, reflectance, and get laser type recommendations.
Select material and wavelength to see absorption analysis.
Wavelength fit
Send the material, wavelength, and absorption result before comparing laser type or process settings.
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| Material | Fiber (1070nm) | CO₂ (10600nm) | Green (532nm) | Best Laser |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mild Steel | 35% | 5% | 42% | Fiber |
| Stainless Steel | 32% | 8% | 38% | Fiber |
| Aluminum | 8% | 3% | 15% | Fiber (high power) |
| Copper | 5% | 2% | 40% | Green / Blue |
| Wood | 25% | 95% | 30% | CO₂ only |
| Acrylic | 5% | 95% | 8% | CO₂ only |
Values at room temperature for ground/machined surfaces. Absorption increases significantly at elevated temperatures.
CO₂ laser wavelength (10.6μm) is strongly absorbed by organic materials - wood and acrylic absorb ~95% of the energy. Fiber laser wavelength (1.07μm) passes through or scatters in these materials with only ~5-25% absorption. The 10.6μm wavelength excites molecular vibrations in polymers and organic compounds, causing efficient vaporization. This is why CO₂ is the only practical choice for cutting wood, paper, fabric, leather, and most plastics.
Choose fiber vs CO₂ for your application
Calculate absorbed power density
Absorption affects weld penetration
Absorption affects cutting speed
Complete comparison of laser types
Tips for copper, brass, aluminum
Note: Absorption values are approximate for typical industrial conditions. Actual absorption varies with surface finish, temperature, alloy composition, and beam angle. For highly reflective materials, consider starting with lower power and back-reflection monitoring.
Follow this sequence to move from the current result into the next practical decision.
Set focal point position for the material and thickness.
Check M2, beam parameter product, and profile suitability before changing process settings.
Confirm whether the beam intensity supports cutting, welding, or marking.
Estimate weld depth and interaction mode after power density is known.
Transfer tuned settings between machines, wavelengths, or power classes.
Estimate cut width, compensation, and nesting spacing.