Laser Cutting a Small Hole in Thick Plate 2

[jerry1423]

Is there a "rule of thumb" for the minimum round hole size that can be laser cut in thick plate ?
For example; What is the smallest hole diameter that can be laser cut in 3/8" thick mild steel ?

Jerry J.
UGV5-NX1884

 

[drossfree]

rule of thumb is min dia = thickness but i break this rule all the time by using pulse cutting.REduce power frequency and speed

 

[jerry1423]

thank you very much drossfree

Jerry J.
UGV5-NX1884

 

[Rex Hang]

The old rule of thumb is the hole should not be smaller than the material thickness, As I said the old rule. These days newer machines can make smaller holes than the material thickness.

 

[jerry1423]

The hole I need is a little smaller than the material thickness, so it should work fine.
Thank you.

Jerry J.
UGV5-NX1884

 

[Rex Hang]

Laser marking offers high-quality permanent marking that is fast and reliable.