Fiber vs. MOPA Laser Cutting: What’s the Difference?

The two primary choices for industrial laser cutting for metal materials are fiber and MOPA laser cutting. We’ll explain these cutting methods, the difference between the two, and which is best for your application.

What Is Fiber Laser Cutting?

Fiber laser cutting is the conventional approach to laser cutting and marking and is a relatively recent development in laser cutting technology. Fiber laser cutting technology provides exceptional speed and accuracy in metal fabrication cutting.

A fiber laser cutting system uses optical fibers to create a laser beam with a transport fiber that transmits the laser to the system’s cutting head. The condensed, narrow beam cuts through metals of various thicknesses and works on the following materials:

• Steel
• Stainless steel
• Copper
• Brass
• Titanium
• Reflective materials

What Is MOPA Fiber Laser Cutting?

A MOPA fiber laser cutting system is a recent development in laser cutting technology. A Master Oscillator Power Amplifier, or MOPA, uses an optical amplifier to boost the output power of the laser cutting system. This allows a MOPA fiber laser to generate a higher pulse repetition rate than conventional fiber lasers. Its frequencies, pulse durations, and energy are more adjustable and give the user more control than standard fiber lasers. Since it produces less heat, it reduces the damage to the metal when cutting, decreases the risk of corrosion, and allows surface oxidation to mark colors on metal.

What’s the Difference?

The major difference between fiber and MOPA laser cutting is the control and pulse duration. The pulses of standard fiber lasers are fixed, while the pulse duration varies with MOPA lasers. This means fiber laser cutting achieves more extreme peak powers, but MOPA lasers give you more control.

While these laser technologies can process many of the same materials, MOPA is better suited for more sensitive materials like aluminum and plastics. Only MOPA lasers can color-mark stainless steel and provide black marking of anodized aluminum.

What Laser Cutting Method Should I Use?

The laser marking system you should use for cutting and marking depends on the application. If you need to cut strong metals neatly, a conventional fiber laser cutter will work fine. However, MOPA lasers have the advantage for aluminum and plastic and are less damaging to metals since they produce less heat than fiber laser cutters. If you need help finding the right laser system for your application, contact our staff at Tri-Star Technologies. We’ll gladly help you find the ideal equipment to get the job done!