Acrylic-based sun protection fabrics in laser test

Laser cutting of INFINITY and MAX

Dickson-Constant's INFINITY and MAX materials are made of 100% spun-dyed acrylic. The manufacturer has optimized both materials with different coatings for sun protection so that they can be further processed into sunshades, awnings and other sun protection products. Processing is traditionally done with ultrasonic or knife cutters. However, we would like to present the advantages of laser processing in the cutting test.

Properties of INFINITY and MAX:

Dirt and water repellent
Protection against UV radiation and heat
Light resistant
Durable

Robust
Tear resistant
High dimensional stability
Low wave formation

The goal of the laser test:

Establishing the laser as an alternative to ultrasonic cutting

We tested INFINITY and MAX from Dickson-Constant for processing with our laser cutters. In consultation, we paid attention to the following requirements of the processors.

Best cutting results even with the smallest possible contours - Maximum perfection and accuracy
Avoidance of traces of residue or contamination, especially on the coating

Precise corners without marks or overcuts
No damage to the coating by the cut

The used test setup:

Table concept: Conveyor automation
Automated material feeding of textiles for processing directly from the roll.

Recommended laser power: 40-100 watts
Optimal power for fast and clean cutting of thin textiles

Clean, residue-free cut edge of the MAX fabric after laser cutting

Test result:

INFINITY and MAX can be excellently cut by laser

We have extensively tested the two spun-dyed acrylic fabrics INFINITY and MAX from Dickson-Constant and were able to achieve perfect cutting results with both materials. For this reason, we award the following rating for their laser cutting abilities: Excellently suitable. Not only did both fabrics exhibit fantastic qualities on their cut edges, it was also possible to avoid residue. The objective of the laser test was thus completely fultilled. The formation of a vacuum on the work area saves usersfrom having to clamp or fix the fabric beforehand, resulting in an even more efficient process. Furthermore, due to the low laser beam diameter of only about 0.3 mm, no overcuts occur, which is why the results here are superior to the knife cutter. Even changes of direction in the contour can be executed without visible overcuts.

Overall, we can give a clear recommendation for the laser for processing the INFINITY and MAX materials.