Effects of CO2 Laser Cutting Parameters on Kerf Width in Native Wood Species

Abstract

Kerf width variations in native wood species were evaluated with respect to CO₂ laser cutting, focusing on the impact of different laser parameters. By systematically varying power output and cutting speed on beech, oak, and spruce wood, the resulting kerf widths were quantified at the top and bottom of the cuts. Measurements were conducted using a Keyence VHX 7000 digital microscope. The results indicated that increased power output generally led to wider kerf widths, while higher cutting speeds resulted in narrower kerfs. Beech exhibited the narrowest kerfs, followed by oak, with spruce wood showing the widest for TOP surface equal to 415.60±103.05, 462.24±114.04, and 497.63±149.05 mm, respectively. Statistical analysis using ANOVA highlighted the significant effects of power output, cutting speed, and wood structures on kerf width. This research offers insights into optimizing laser cutting parameters to achieve precise and efficient cuts in wood processing applications within interval of energy densities between 11.2 and 90 J·mm⁻².