This technology is normally used for high volume laser cut PCD segments for the woodworking Industry. This technology does leave a slightly rougher cut edge compared to EDM. All segments are sandblasted after cutting to ensure a clean-cut edge. Laser cutting is significantly faster than EDM but is limited to cutting 2 mm overall height. Laser cutting also provides better yield as the cutting gap is much smaller compared to the cutting gap for EDM. Laser machining is a dry process; there is no cobalt depletion during cutting process which is an advantage to our customers in the tool making and resharpening process, particularly in woodworking where EDM is used to erode a cutting edge on the PCD segments.

We have invested in the latest processing technology and our Shannon cutting shop has precision lasers that we use to cut PCD and PCBN. The advantages of the precision lasers are the very clean and straight cutting edges it provides. The extremely small spot size of this process produces much tighter dimensional tolerances. The laser also has five axis capability, so it can cut tapered edges. In metal working, particularly the braze joint, a good quality perpendicular cut edge is very important. The laser cut edge is comparable to EDM but with no pippi, meaning all edges are usable and no further edge processing is required.