Edge yellowing is a common issue when cutting fabrics with a CO2 laser machine, primarily due to the high temperatures generated during the laser cutting process that cause the fabric to heat up and discolor. To address this problem, several methods can be employed:
I. Adjusting Cutting Parameters
1. **Reducing Cutting Speed**: Rapid cutting can result in excessive heat being applied to the material by the laser, damaging or discoloring the fabric. Therefore, appropriately reducing the cutting speed can minimize heat accumulation and prevent edge yellowing.
2. **Adjusting Laser Power**: High-power lasers generate significant heat, while low-power lasers do not overly heat the material. By adjusting the laser power, heat generation can be reduced while maintaining cutting efficiency, thereby avoiding edge yellowing.
II. Improving Cooling Conditions
1. **Increasing Ventilation**: During laser cutting, increasing ventilation can lower the temperature within the cutting chamber and reduce heat accumulation. This method can effectively prevent fabric discoloration.
2. **Using Assistant Gas**: Using inert gases such as nitrogen as assistant gases during the cutting process can reduce the occurrence of oxidation reactions, thereby lowering the likelihood of edge yellowing.
III. Optimizing the Cutting Environment
1. **Keeping the Cutting Platform Clean**: The flatness and cleanliness of the cutting platform affect the focusing effect and, consequently, the cutting quality. Therefore, regularly cleaning the cutting platform to ensure it is flat and clean can prevent uneven cutting and edge yellowing caused by reflections or impurities.
2. **Using an Appropriate Cutting Board**: Selecting a cutting board suitable for the fabric type and thickness can improve cutting quality and efficiency and reduce the possibility of edge yellowing.
IV. Choosing a Suitable Laser Cutting Machine
If the above methods fail to solve the problem, consider replacing the laser cutting machine with one specifically designed for cutting fabrics. Some laser cutting machines tailored for fabric cutting employ technologies such as low-temperature cutting and high-speed motion control systems, effectively preventing edge yellowing issues.
In summary, by adjusting cutting parameters, improving cooling conditions, optimizing the cutting environment, and selecting a suitable laser cutting machine, the problem of edge yellowing during CO2 laser cutting of fabrics can be effectively avoided. Additionally, regularly maintaining and servicing the laser cutting machine to ensure it is in good working condition is also an important measure for improving cutting quality and efficiency.
