Comparison of leading laser cutting machines

I have a little experience using laser cutters, but not enough to be of much help. I would recommend talking to some of the companies that specialize in laser cutting and other rapid prototyping services. They should have extensive experience. Just google laser cutting service and you should find several.

From the little I've used them, the primary thing to look at would be the type and power of the laser and how easy it is to adjust or replace. This will determine the materials, thicknesses, and speeds it can handle. Look at options like ventilation. Many plastics, like lexan, can be cut, but produce toxic fumes, so you'll want good ventilation. The one I've used the most had a sealed hood that closed before cutting. Good luck, let us know what you go with and how it works.

I have a ton of experience with Trumpf. I'd contact Holger Schueter V.P. of Lasers at Trumpf located in Farmington, CT. World class facility and technology and many different types of laser cutters, laser welders and laser markers. Let them show you what they have. I think the answers your looking for will become clear. Good luck!

We've just bought an Amada FO3015NT "Gemini" after looking closely at Trumpf and Prima. All three machines have advantages but consider this: Amada has a heavy cast frame as opposed to Prima's much lighter one. In a shop that also has turret presses (and a lot of vibration), this is an advantage. Trumpf is a lot more money for similar capabilities and their service is well known to be inadequate. Amada services quickly and competently and the resonator is Fanuc and they're aces also and have a pro-rata guarantee on it. If you're going to cut tubing and such, Prima has an inexpensive indexing attachment that is less expensive to add later than the other two but for precision sheet metal and plate cutting Amada has the best product line for the money.