Laser cutting and engraving of rubber using a high-quality laser machine

Laser machines are powerful devices that come in handy in all sorts of ways, including for cutting rubber. The laser beam ensures a clean finish, and the machines are also safe and easy to use. You can apply this technique to the production of countless products: from shoe soles to stamps. Are you curious about the possibilities and looking for a technique to cut or engrave rubber? Then discover the power of BRM’s laser machines, which allow you to create custom rubber products in no time at all. Here you can read all about how it works, the benefits and applications of cutting rubber with a laser machine.

Cutting rubber: how does it work?

Do you want to cut foam rubber or customise or engrave natural rubber parts? A laser machine offers the solution. The powerful laser in these machines is capable of processing various types of rubber. This is because the laser is extremely concentrated and therefore generates a great deal of heat. These extremely high temperatures burn the rubber as soon as the material comes into contact with the laser beam. The result is a clean and precise cut line that is virtually unrivalled. What’s more, the laser can be precisely adjusted to your specifications. You can determine the power and thickness of the beam, creating accurate cut lines that follow your design down to the last detail.

Operating the laser machine is simple. If you’re going to cut a piece of rubber, you’ll first need a design. You can simply create this digital design using your own design software. Next, prepare the file using the software supplied with the laser machine. This software creates cutting lines and ensures the laser knows exactly which shapes to produce. Upload this file to the machine and place the rubber on the worktable. Close the cover, press start and let the laser do its work. Adjust your design as you go along or have the machine produce the same designs time and time again.

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What types of rubber can you laser cut?

Laser machines are incredibly versatile and are therefore capable of cutting all kinds of rubber. For example, it is possible to use these machines to process:

• Natural rubber
• Microporous foam
• Silicone rubber
• Synthetic rubber

It is important to bear in mind that each type of rubber reacts differently to the laser. This means that some types require a longer processing time or can only be cut effectively with a more powerful beam. Are you planning to cut foam rubber whilst you are used to working with natural rubber? If so, start by conducting a small test where you adjust the laser’s power and speed. This will allow you to see straight away which settings deliver the best results for laser cutting rubber.

The advantages of rubber laser cutting

Rubber is one of the most difficult materials to work with. This is entirely down to its flexibility and elasticity, which make it incredibly difficult to create straight lines. If you try to cut foam rubber or ordinary rubber with a saw or milling machine, you will immediately notice that the edges have a frayed and messy finish. This makes the end result a lot less neat and therefore less attractive. You do not have this problem when you machine rubber with a laser machine. This is because the laser does not come into contact with the rubber, preventing the material from deforming or stretching. This produces straight lines that are impossible to replicate when working by hand.

If you choose to cut rubber with a laser cutting machine, you’ll also work considerably faster. The machine is fully computer-controlled and follows your chosen design down to the millimetre. All you need to do is press start. Do you have several pieces of rubber that need to be cut to exactly the same shape? No problem, as the laser machine replicates the design precisely every time. You don’t need to worry about damage, as there is no need to secure the rubber in the machine. This means that scratches, tears and dents are completely ruled out.

Safety when cutting foam rubber

Cutting rubber with a laser machine is incredibly handy, but what about safety? Naturally, you want to be able to work with the machine without any worries. That’s no problem at all, because BRM’s laser machines are designed to ensure they do not harm you or your working environment. This is largely down to the cover that encloses the laser. This cover prevents the laser from operating in the open, ensuring your hands do not come into contact with the hot beam.

The heat of the laser also ensures that the rubber is burnt at high temperatures. This extreme heat is the reason why relatively little dust is produced. Any unpleasant odours are easily contained by the hood. Of course, it is inevitable that small dust particles will be released when cutting rubber. That is why the extraction system comes in handy. This system sucks up the contaminated air and filters it, so that the dust particles are not released. Another safety advantage is that the laser does not come into contact with the rubber. There is no friction, so there is no risk of small pieces of rubber flying around.

When is laser cutting rubber particularly useful?

Rubber is a versatile product used across a wide range of industries. It is a strong material capable of withstanding immense pressure. At the same time, it is elastic and retains its shape well, even in extreme conditions. This means that laser cutting rubber is a useful technique for manufacturing countless products. The laser machine allows you to cut the rubber to exact specifications, making personalised products and bespoke work a breeze. The technique is particularly useful for manufacturing:

• Stamps
• Car tyres
• Bicycle saddles
• Recycled products
• Shoe soles
• Art objects
• Furniture
• Advertising hoardings
• Promotional gifts
• Jewellery

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Which industries benefit from rubber laser cutting?

Countless industries use rubber, so it goes without saying that all these companies and factories can also benefit from a laser machine for cutting rubber. For example, the automotive industry can create bespoke tyres that are tailored to the millimetre for every wheel rim. In addition, the technology is particularly useful for professional creatives who wish to use rubber in the creation of art objects, jewellery, decorations and furniture.

Schools would also do well to introduce their pupils to laser technology. Cutting and engraving foam rubber or rubber is an easy technique to learn and helps students create three-dimensional designs. As the laser machine is relatively safe to use, there is no issue with having these devices in a classroom. Pupils experience how lasers work and are given the chance to develop their creative and technical skills.

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What does it cost to process rubber with a laser machine?

In any production process, cost is an important factor to consider. It therefore goes without saying that you might wonder what it costs to cut foam rubber using a laser. The biggest expense is the purchase of a laser machine. BRM offers various models, with the one featuring the smallest worktable also being the cheapest. Do you have a small budget or do you not expect to use the laser machine on a large scale? Then it might be worth purchasing a second-hand model. These are, of course, of the same high quality you would expect from BRM, but at a lower price.

The daily running costs are considerably lower. If you’re going to be cutting rubber with the machine, you’ll mainly need to factor in maintenance and repair costs. In particular, delicate parts such as mirrors and lenses will need replacing over time. These costs are fairly low, as you should expect an average cost of €2 per hour that the laser machine is in use. So, once you have purchased a laser machine, working with rubber is a relatively inexpensive undertaking.

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Which laser cutting machine is best for you?

Before you buy a laser cutting machine, you first need to know what specifications you require. Depending on the materials you wish to cut and the required working area, you can choose from a number of different models.
If you’re not quite sure, pop in for a no-obligation demonstration. During this demonstration, we’ll help you choose the right laser cutting machine. This way, you’ll avoid paying too much and ensure you have the best machine for your projects.

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Laser cutting and engraving rubber with laser machines

A laser machine helps you cut or engrave many materials quickly and effortlessly. Our machines are hybrid, so you get a laser cutting machine and a laser engraving machine in one. Whether you’re engraving metal or cutting leather, with a BRM laser machine your job will be a piece of cake. Our range includes laser machines in various models. They differ in terms of power, dimensions and price, amongst other things. The most popular machine is the Pro 1300; this is used by customers in various sectors and can be found in schools and architects’ offices, amongst other places. If you’re looking for a machine with a larger working area, the Pro 1600 is the perfect model. We supply all machines including installation and training. This means you can get started straight away.

Discover BRM’s laser machines

Are you interested in laser cutting rubber and looking for professional equipment that can be adjusted down to the finest detail? Then BRM is the right place for you. Our laser machines are capable of cutting various types of rubber, with a focus on precision, a clean finish and speed. Our machines are available in various sizes, so there is always a model to suit your workspace. Do you have any questions about cutting rubber using lasers? Please feel free to contact us.

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