Laser Cutters

The most common subtractive machining in FTC

Types of Laser Cutters

• Diode Lasers

These compact and affordable cutters use a small laser diode and are best suited for cutting paper, cardboard, and thin wood. They are useful for quick prototypes and engraving designs or team information.

• CO₂ Lasers

CO₂ machines use mirrors to direct a high-powered beam from a laser tube. These cutters are enclosed and capable of cutting wood and many plastics. They are particularly useful for making functional custom parts for FTC robots.

• Fiber Lasers

Fiber lasers combine multiple laser diodes into a fiber optic cable, allowing them to cut metal with high precision. These machines are typically expensive and have small working areas, making them less common among FTC teams.

Baison's image of a laser cutter

Materials You Can Cut

• Wood

Thin wood sheets are easily cut and great for prototypes or low-stress parts. Some types of wood may release fumes or present fire risks depending on their composition.

• Acrylic

Acrylic is popular for decorative elements and lightweight guides. While easy to laser cut, it can crack under mechanical stress.

• Delrin (Acetal

Delrin is a strong, versatile plastic that can be cut safely with proper ventilation. It is well-suited for functional robot components such as motor mounts and structural inserts.

Materials You Should Avoid

• PVC

Releases toxic gases that are harmful to both users and the machine.

• Polycarbonate

Discolors and burns rather than cuts cleanly, while also emitting harmful fumes.

• ABS and HDPE

These plastics tend to melt instead of producing clean cuts.

• Unidentified Plastics

Different plastics can look similar but behave differently under a laser. Avoid cutting any plastic unless you’re sure it’s safe.