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CO2 Laser Machines: Professional Engraving and Cutting
CO2 laser machines make it possible to engrave, mark and cut a wide variety of materials with precision. Particularly well suited to wood, Plexiglas, leather, cardboard and certain plastics, they meet the needs of professionals in industry, signage, manufacturing and product personalization.
With CO2 laser technology, you can reproduce text, logos and detailed patterns, and also cut complex shapes with excellent consistency. Depending on the power, work area and machine configuration, this technology is suitable for both one-off parts and series production.
Thermoflan offers a range of professional CO2 laser engraving and cutting machines, including compact equipment, flatbed cutting machines and galvanometric marking systems. Our solutions adapt to the dimensions of your parts, the materials you process and your production requirements.
Our range of CO2 laser engraving and cutting machines
Thermoflan offers a wide range of professional CO2 laser machines designed for a variety of engraving, cutting and marking needs. Our selection includes Access Aeon engraving and cutting tables (Mira, Nova Elite, Nova Super Elite), LTT professional tables (V2000, V3000, ILS3V, I3000, I4000), as well as CMark galvanometric CO2 laser marking stations and 3-axis galvanometric stations.
Flatbed engraving and cutting machines are particularly well suited to producing custom parts, cutting complex shapes and personalizing substrates. Galvanometric stations, for their part, prioritize marking speed and precision, especially for product identification and industrial applications requiring high repeatability.
Explore our range of CO2 laser engraving and cutting machines and choose the equipment that matches your materials, part dimensions and production constraints.
What is a CO2 laser?
A CO2 laser produces an infrared beam from a gas mixture in which carbon dioxide is the active component. Its wavelength, approximately 10.6 µm, is particularly well absorbed by organic materials and many non-metallic materials: wood, acrylic, leather, paper, cardboard, textiles, glass and stone.
The beam is guided by mirrors and then focused onto the workpiece by a lens. It works without contact: depending on the power and speed settings, it marks the surface, engraves it in depth or cuts through its entire thickness.
This versatility makes the CO2 laser a benchmark tool for signage, product personalization, model making, packaging and small-batch production.
How does a CO2 laser machine work?
A CO2 laser machine uses a focused infrared beam to mark, engrave or cut a variety of materials with precision. This technology works without direct contact with the workpiece and can process a wide range of substrates, including wood, acrylic, leather, paper, cardboard, textiles, glass and stone.
Depending on the laser power, travel speed and material characteristics, the beam can alter the surface, remove a layer of material or cut all the way through. This versatility makes the CO2 laser particularly well suited to professionals in signage, product personalization, packaging and the manufacture of parts in small or large series.
How a CO2 laser works
A CO2 laser works by electrically exciting a gas mixture containing carbon dioxide. This reaction generates an infrared beam with a wavelength typically close to 10.6 µm, which is particularly well absorbed by many non-metallic materials.
The laser beam is then directed by an optical system made up of mirrors and focused by a focal lens onto the surface of the material. This concentrated energy causes localized heating that alters or removes material.
The job is digitally controlled from a file containing the text, patterns or shapes to be reproduced. Power, speed and focus settings make it possible to adapt the result to the substrate and the desired operation.
The machine also relies on several auxiliary systems:
- A fume extraction system to remove the smoke and particles produced during engraving or cutting.
- An air or water cooling system, depending on the technology used, to keep the laser source at a suitable operating temperature.
These components contribute to the quality of the work and the proper operation of the equipment.
What is the difference between CO2 laser marking, engraving and cutting?
CO2 laser machines can perform three types of operations, depending on the characteristics of the material and the desired result.
CO2 laser marking alters the appearance of the material’s surface to create a visible contrast, without necessarily producing a deep engraving. Depending on the substrate, this change may result in particular from surface carbonization. Marking is used to reproduce text, logos, part numbers, serial numbers or identification codes.
CO2 laser engraving removes a layer of material under the action of the beam. It creates recessed lettering or patterns, with a depth that varies according to the settings and the material being processed. This technique is particularly well suited to product personalization, engraved plates and the reproduction of detailed patterns.
CO2 laser cutting goes through the entire thickness of the material to produce a defined shape. It can be used to cut sheets of wood, acrylic, cardboard, leather or certain textiles, with precise contours and good repeatability.
However, not all CO2 laser machines offer the same engraving and cutting capabilities. The choice of equipment depends in particular on the laser source, the beam delivery system and the dimensions of the parts to be processed.
The different technologies: glass tube, RF tube and galvanometric head
Thermoflan sells several CO2 laser machine technologies, including glass tube equipment, RF-source lasers and galvanometric stations. Each one has specific characteristics to meet different professional engraving, marking and cutting needs.
Glass tube CO2 lasers
Glass tube CO2 lasers are a cost-effective solution for professionals looking for a versatile machine capable of both engraving and cutting.
Available in different power ratings, they are particularly well suited to cutting materials such as wood, acrylic or leather, as well as engraving many non-metallic substrates.
Their value for money makes them an attractive option for fabrication shops, signage professionals and companies handling a wide variety of engraving and cutting jobs.
RF tube CO2 lasers
Radio-frequency (RF) excited CO2 lasers stand out for their operating stability, precision and durability. Their design allows precise beam control, which is particularly valuable for applications requiring fine engraving, clean edges and consistent reproduction quality.
This technology is particularly suitable for professionals looking for reliable equipment for intensive use, with high requirements in terms of precision and repeatability.
Galvanometric station CO2 lasers
Unlike plotter-type CO2 laser machines, which move the optical head along two axes above a work table, galvanometric stations use motorized mirrors to steer the beam at very high speed.
Plotter-type machines are particularly well suited to engraving and cutting sheets, panels and large parts. Galvanometric stations, on the other hand, prioritize marking speed over a defined work area.
This technology is used in particular for engraving serial numbers, barcodes, QR codes or part numbers on industrial components. It meets series marking needs in sectors such as automotive, aerospace and electronics.
3-axis galvanometric stations can also adjust the beam positioning to work on parts with height variations, depending on the machine’s capabilities.
The choice between a flatbed CO2 laser machine and a galvanometric station therefore depends mainly on the type of operation to be performed, the dimensions of the parts and the required production rates.
Laser marking
This technique burns the surface of the material, causing a carbonisation that creates a visual contrast between the original colour and the colour obtained after marking. It is often used for part traceability, incrementing serial numbers or adding references.
Laser engraving
In this process, the laser digs into the surface of the material, removing a thin layer to form a pattern. This makes it possible to produce detailed engravings on plates or other surfaces, offering precise and durable personalisation.
Laser cutting
Laser cutting involves passing right through the material with a very fine laser beam (around 100 microns). This technique offers great precision and superior cut quality for applications such as model making, cutting gaskets or paper for invitations.
Materials compatible with our CO2 laser cutters and engravers
CO2 laser machines can engrave, mark and cut a wide variety of materials, mainly non-metallic ones. Thanks to their infrared beam, they are particularly well suited to processing wood, acrylic, leather, paper, cardboard and many other substrates used in industry, signage and product personalization.
Depending on the properties of the material, the CO2 laser can perform surface engraving, create a deep pattern or cut complex shapes with precision. The possibilities depend in particular on the machine’s power, the thickness of the substrate and the engraving or cutting parameters.
CO2 laser engraving and cutting of wood
Wood is one of the materials most commonly processed with a CO2 laser engraving and cutting machine. This technology makes it possible to produce lettering, decorative patterns and precise cuts, with no mechanical contact with the material.
The CO2 laser can be used on different wood species, as well as on plywood, MDF or veneered panels, provided their composition is compatible with the process. It can be used to produce decorative objects, signage elements, scale models, assembly parts or personalized items.
During engraving, the thermal action of the beam alters the surface of the wood, usually with a browning effect that makes the lettering and patterns stand out. When cutting, the laser goes through the material to reproduce the contours defined in the digital file.
The quality of the result and the maximum thickness that can be cut depend on the laser power, the type of wood, its density and the settings used.
Engraving and cutting acrylic and Plexiglas
The CO2 laser is particularly well suited to engraving and cutting acrylic (PMMA), also known as Plexiglas. This material is widely used in the manufacture of signs, nameplates, displays, trophies and decorative items.
CO2 laser cutting produces precise shapes, including complex contours, with edges that can have a smooth, glossy finish depending on the type of acrylic and the process parameters.
Engraving, for its part, makes it possible to reproduce text, logos or patterns on the surface of the material. On clear acrylic, it can produce a frosted effect that is particularly attractive for signage and personalization applications.
Results vary depending on whether the acrylic is cast or extruded, as well as on its thickness and composition. The choice of machine and settings must therefore be adapted to the type of PMMA being processed.
Processing leather, paper, cardboard and textiles
CO2 laser machines can also process flexible or thin materials, including leather, paper, cardboard and certain textiles. The precision of the beam makes it easier to reproduce detailed shapes and perform repetitive cuts.
On natural leather, the laser can be used to engrave logos, text or patterns, as well as to cut parts for leather goods and accessories. The result depends on the type of leather, its treatment and the parameters used.
Paper and cardboard are particularly well suited to cutting complex shapes, especially for scale models, packaging, promotional materials, cards or decorative items.
In the textile sector, the CO2 laser makes it possible to cut fabric patterns and pieces without using a blade. Depending on the fiber composition, the thermal action can also limit fraying at the edges.
However, the compatibility of these materials must be checked before processing, especially when they contain coatings, adhesives or components that may release hazardous fumes when exposed to the laser.
Engraving glass, stone and certain plastics
The CO2 laser can also be used to engrave hard materials such as glass, slate, certain types of stone and ceramics, as well as several families of compatible plastics.
On glass, the beam causes a surface change in the material, creating lettering or patterns with a frosted appearance. This technique is used in particular for product personalization, decoration and marking certain glass items.
CO2 laser engraving on stone, especially slate, makes it possible to reproduce text, images and high-contrast patterns. The result depends on the composition, color and surface condition of the material.
Certain plastics can also be engraved or cut with a CO2 laser, depending on their chemical composition and thermal properties. However, it is essential to check their compatibility: materials containing PVC or other halogenated compounds must not be processed without specific validation, because of the corrosive and hazardous emissions they can produce.
For glass and stone, CO2 laser machines are mainly used for surface engraving rather than through-cutting.
Can you engrave or cut metal with a CO2 laser?
The CO2 laser is mainly used for engraving and cutting non-metallic materials. It can nevertheless be used in certain metal marking or cutting applications, provided suitable equipment and processes are used.
On certain coated, painted or anodized metals, the CO2 laser beam can remove or alter the coating to reveal lettering, a logo or a high-contrast pattern. Specific marking compounds can also be used to achieve a mark on certain metal surfaces.
However, direct engraving of bare metals and cutting of metal sheets are generally not among the applications of standard CO2 laser engraving and cutting machines. Industrial CO2 laser cutting of metals requires equipment specifically designed for this operation, with suitable power levels and systems.
For direct marking of steel, stainless steel, aluminum, brass or other metals, a fiber laser engraving machine is generally a more appropriate solution.
Thermoflan also offers a range of professional fiber lasers for marking, identification and engraving of metal parts.
What are the applications of CO2 laser machines?
CO2 laser engraving and cutting machines are used in many professional sectors for part manufacturing, signage, product personalization and industrial marking. Their precision and versatility meet a wide range of needs, from one-off parts to series production.
Depending on the machine configuration, the CO2 laser can cut complex shapes, reproduce detailed patterns or produce lettering on various substrates. Flatbed cutting machines are particularly well suited to part manufacturing and processing large surfaces, while galvanometric stations are better suited to fast, repetitive marking.
Part manufacturing and custom shape cutting
CO2 laser cutting makes it possible to manufacture custom parts from sheets of compatible materials, such as wood, acrylic, cardboard or certain plastics. The beam follows the contours defined in a digital file to reproduce simple or complex shapes with precision.
This technology is used in particular to produce assembly parts, decorative pieces, display components, technical supports or parts for the manufacture of finished products.
Since there is no mechanical contact with the material, cutting detailed shapes is easier and the stresses exerted on the part during processing are limited. Power and speed settings make it possible to adapt the cut to the type and thickness of the substrate.
Flatbed CO2 laser machines are particularly well suited to workshops that want to produce custom parts, reproduce identical cuts or manufacture series of components from digital files.
Signage, signs and promotional displays
Signage and visual communication professionals use CO2 laser machines to manufacture signs, engraved plates, cut letters, displays and various promotional materials.
Laser cutting makes it possible to precisely shape the contours of letters, logos and graphic forms, especially in acrylic, Plexiglas or wood. Engraving, for its part, makes it possible to add text, patterns or identification elements directly onto the substrates.
This technology is particularly well suited to the manufacture of nameplates, decorative panels, indoor signage, trophies and custom display stands.
Thanks to digital control, professionals can reproduce the same design on several parts or quickly adapt dimensions and shapes to their customers’ requirements.
Product personalization and engraving
CO2 laser engraving offers many possibilities for personalizing objects with text, names, logos, images or decorative patterns. It produces detailed lettering on a variety of substrates, without direct contact with the material.
This technology is used in particular to personalize corporate gifts, promotional products, wooden boxes, leather goods, trophies and decorative accessories.
Depending on the material, the laser can create a visible contrast on the surface or remove a thin layer of material to produce a recessed engraving. The precision of the beam makes it possible to reproduce fine details, even on small objects.
CO2 laser machines are therefore suitable for professionals who want to offer one-off personalized creations, as well as for companies producing series of objects bearing a specific logo or inscription.
Industrial marking and product identification
In industry, CO2 laser marking makes it possible to apply information directly to products, packaging or components made from compatible materials.
Serial numbers, manufacturing references, dates, logos, barcodes or QR codes can be produced to meet companies’ identification and traceability needs.
Galvanometric CO2 laser stations are particularly well suited to these applications. Thanks to the fast movement of the beam via motorized mirrors, they deliver precise, repeatable marking on individual parts or series of products.
This technology can be used in particular to identify housings, components made of compatible plastic, cardboard packaging or products requiring technical markings. Depending on the equipment configuration, marking can be performed on a standalone workstation or integrated into a production process.
Prototyping, scale models and short runs
CO2 laser cutting machines are also used for prototyping and model making. They make it possible to quickly turn a digital drawing into a physical part, without first having to manufacture specific cutting tooling.
This technology is particularly valuable for engineering departments, design workshops, model makers and companies that want to test shapes or assemblies before launching production.
The CO2 laser can be used in particular to produce architectural models, packaging prototypes, templates, presentation pieces or parts used to validate the dimensions of a product.
Because digital files are easy to modify, you can quickly adjust a design, produce several versions of the same part or launch short production runs. CO2 laser machines therefore offer a flexible solution for professionals who need to adapt their production regularly.
Why choose a CO2 laser engraving and cutting machine?
Need a machine suited to your business?
Our team will help you choose a machine suited to your materials, the dimensions of your parts and your production constraints.
FREE QUOTEHow do you choose a professional CO2 laser machine?
Choosing a professional CO2 laser machine depends on several criteria: the materials to be processed, their thickness, the dimensions of the parts, the power required and the expected production volumes. A machine intended for product personalization will not necessarily meet the same needs as equipment used for cutting panels or high-volume industrial marking.
Thermoflan offers different configurations of CO2 laser engraving and cutting machines, from compact units to large-format work tables, as well as galvanometric marking stations. To select the most suitable model, it is important to precisely define the characteristics of your applications and the constraints of your production environment.
Based on the materials and the thickness to be cut
The type of material is a first criterion when choosing a CO2 laser machine. Wood, acrylic, leather, cardboard and textiles have different properties and do not react in the same way to the laser beam.
For cutting applications, material thickness is particularly decisive. A thin acrylic sheet does not require the same capabilities as a thick wood panel. The density, composition and any treatments of the substrate also affect the working speed and the quality of the edges obtained.
It is also important to distinguish between engraving and cutting needs. A machine intended mainly for lettering or surface patterns may have a different configuration from equipment used to regularly cut materials several millimeters thick.
Based on laser power and work area
The power of the CO2 laser affects engraving and cutting capabilities, in particular processing speed and the material thicknesses that can be cut through. Higher power can make some cutting operations easier, but the result also depends on beam quality, focusing and the parameters used.
The work area is another key factor. For personalizing small objects or engraving small plates, a compact machine may be sufficient. However, cutting panels, manufacturing large parts or processing several items at once requires a larger work table.
The choice must therefore take into account the maximum dimensions of the substrates, but also the area actually needed to lay out the parts and optimize production operations.
Based on production volume and workstation configuration
Frequency of use and the number of parts to be processed also guide the choice of equipment. The needs of a workshop producing one-off personalized pieces differ from those of a company that must produce series of identical parts every day.
For regular or intensive use, execution speed, repeatability, ease of material loading and workstation ergonomics are important criteria.
Flatbed CO2 laser machines are particularly well suited to engraving and cutting operations requiring a work area matched to the dimensions of the substrates. Galvanometric stations, for their part, prioritize beam speed for repetitive marking applications over a defined area.
The installation environment must also be assessed: machine footprint, fume extraction, cooling system and safety devices must all be taken into account to ensure proper operating conditions.
Which Thermoflan CO2 laser machine should you choose?
The Thermoflan range of CO2 laser machines includes several systems designed for engraving, cutting and marking professionals. Each model has specific characteristics in terms of power, work area, laser technology and configuration.
Compact machines are particularly suitable for workshops with limited space, while larger tables meet the needs of part manufacturing and panel cutting. Galvanometric stations are more geared toward fast, repetitive marking applications.
The choice of machine therefore depends mainly on the materials used, the dimensions of the parts, the desired result and the production rate.
Comparison table of Thermoflan CO2 laser machines
| Machine | Technology / configuration | Recommended use |
|---|---|---|
| Mira 5 | Glass CO2 tube, compact machine | Engraving, cutting, personalization and prototyping |
| Redline Mira 5 S | Compact machine with pass-through table | Small objects, personalization and long parts |
| V2000 | RF CO2 tube, side pass-through table | Precision engraving and cutting in the workshop |
| V3000 | RF CO2 tube, side pass-through table | Engraving and cutting on a larger work area |
| CMark Basic | Galvanometric head, open Class 4 workstation | Fast marking and part identification |
| CMark Pro | Galvanometric station with enclosed workstation | Repetitive industrial marking |
| CMark Pro Max XY | RF CO2 tube, galvanometric head and motorized XY table | Marking large surfaces |
| 3-axis galvanometric CO2 laser | Galvanometric head with dynamic focusing optics | Marking large, inclined or slightly curved surfaces |
CO2 laser or fiber laser: which technology should you choose?
CO2 laser and fiber laser machines can both perform engraving and marking work with high precision. However, they use different wavelengths and are not suited to the same materials or applications.
The CO2 laser is particularly well suited to engraving and cutting many non-metallic materials, such as wood, acrylic, leather or cardboard. The fiber laser, on the other hand, is preferred for marking and engraving metals, particularly in industrial identification and traceability applications.
The choice between these two technologies therefore depends mainly on the type of materials to be processed, the desired result and production constraints.
| Criterion | CO2 laser | Fiber laser |
|---|---|---|
| Main applications | Engraving, marking and cutting | Precision marking and engraving |
| Preferred materials | Wood, acrylic, leather, cardboard, textiles and other compatible non-metallic materials | Steel, stainless steel, aluminum, brass, titanium and certain engineering plastics |
| Cutting wood and acrylic | Particularly well suited | Generally not suitable |
| Metal engraving | Possible on certain coatings or with a specific process | Particularly well suited to direct metal marking |
| Precision | High, depending on configuration and material | High, especially for fine, detailed markings |
| Selection criterion | Type of material, thickness and need for engraving or cutting | Type of metal, contrast, depth and marking requirements |
For manufacturing cut parts, signage or personalizing wood, Plexiglas or leather substrates, a CO2 laser machine is generally the most suitable solution.
However, if your business requires direct engraving of metal parts, serial numbers or industrial traceability codes, explore our range of fiber laser engraving machines.
Frequently asked questions about CO2 laser machines
What power should you choose for a CO2 laser machine?
The power of a CO2 laser machine depends mainly on the materials to be processed, their thickness and the operations to be performed. For fine engraving or marking work, moderate power may be sufficient, while cutting thicker materials generally requires higher power.
However, the choice is not based solely on wattage. Beam quality, focusing, working speed and laser source technology also affect the machine's performance.
To select the right power, it is important to define your applications, the thicknesses to be cut and the desired production rates.
What thickness of wood or Plexiglas can a CO2 laser cut?
The maximum cutting thickness depends on the power of the CO2 laser machine, but also on the type of material, its density and the parameters used.
Solid wood, plywood, MDF and Plexiglas do not react in the same way to the laser beam. At the same power, cutting capabilities and edge quality can therefore vary significantly from one material to another.
Greater thicknesses may also require a lower cutting speed or several passes. To determine a machine's capabilities, it is best to refer to its technical specifications and check the result on the material concerned.
What is the difference between an RF tube and a glass tube CO2 laser?
Maintenance of a CO2 laser machine mainly involves cleaning the optical components, checking the cooling system and servicing the fume extraction equipment.
Depending on the equipment configuration, it may also be necessary to check mirror alignment, clean the work table and inspect the mechanical components that move the laser head.
The frequency of these operations depends on the intensity of use, the materials processed and the laser source technology. Regular maintenance helps preserve engraving and cutting quality while limiting the risk of malfunctions.
What fume extraction system do you need for a CO2 laser?
CO2 laser engraving and cutting produce fumes, gases and particles whose nature varies depending on the materials processed. A suitable extraction system is therefore essential to ensure proper operating conditions and limit fouling of the machine.
Depending on the installation and materials, fumes can be exhausted outdoors or treated by an appropriate filtration system. The choice depends in particular on the workload, the nature of the emissions and the constraints of the workshop.
It is important to size the extraction system correctly and to check material compatibility before any engraving or cutting operation. Certain plastics and coatings can produce hazardous emissions and must not be processed without prior validation.
Can I see Thermoflan CO2 laser machines in operation?
Yes. Our CO2 laser machines can be demonstrated in operation in our showroom, with tests on your own parts or materials. Contact us to schedule an appointment.