Can laser cutting machine cut galvanized steel plates?

 laser cutting machines can cut galvanized steel plates . This is a common practice in the manufacturing industry. Both CO2 and fiber laser machines can be used, though fiber lasers are often preferred for their efficiency on reflective materials like zinc and their ability to produce a better finish, especially on thinner galvanized material 

However, there are important considerations when laser cutting galvanized steel due to its zinc coating:

• Fume Emission and Health Risks: When galvanized steel is laser cut, the high temperatures cause the zinc coating to vaporize, releasing zinc oxide fumes . These fumes are hazardous if inhaled and can cause “metal fume fever,” a flu-like illness   .
  • Mitigation: Proper ventilation and a robust exhaust and smoke purification system are crucial to disperse these fumes and maintain air quality in the workspace   . Some suggest that using oxygen as an auxiliary gas can reduce fume emissions  .
• Cut Quality: The zinc coating can affect the quality of the cut, potentially leading to rough edges or dross if parameters are not optimized  .
  • Mitigation: Careful adjustment of cutting parameters like speed, power, and focus position is necessary   . Using nitrogen as an assist gas is often preferred to prevent oxidation and achieve clean, oxidation-free cut edges on galvanized steel   . Oxygen can also be used, especially for thicker sheets, but it may cause oxidation at the cut edges   .
• Equipment Protection: Spatter from the material can contaminate the focusing lens on the laser, leading to cut quality issues  .
  • Mitigation: Increasing the nozzle distance from the material to the laser cutting head can help prevent this  .

In summary, while laser cutting galvanized steel is feasible and effective, it requires strict adherence to safety protocols and careful optimization of cutting parameters to ensure worker safety and achieve high-quality results.