CO₂ laser cutting of stained glass

This paper covers the C02 laser cutting of stained glass using a Ferranti MF400 CNC laser cutting machine. The report examines the various laser cutting parameters required to generate a cut surface in glass which will require minimal post-treatment to be carried out, and also investigates the degree of geometrical intricacy that can be attempted, together with the associated limitations, in cutting 2D glass components. The experimental procedure used to obtain the necessary information for a preliminary database on the laser cutting of stained glass is also detailed. Finally, the implications and applications of the investigative work are examined for commercial situations through construction of a simple 2D test artefact. © 1996 Springer-Verlag London Limited.