Heat-Affected Zone (HAZ)

Every laser cut produces a narrow band of material adjacent to the cut edge that experiences significant heating without actually melting, this is the heat-affected zone, where the material's crystal structure and hardness change due to rapid thermal cycling. In carbon steels, the HAZ can become harder and more brittle than the base material, which matters for critical applications where the cut edge will experience stress or fatigue loading.

The width and severity of the HAZ depend on laser power, dwell time at each point, assist gas temperature, and base material composition. By minimizing HAZ through optimized cutting parameters and selecting appropriate laser cutting techniques, we reduce material distortion and maintain consistent mechanical properties up to your cut edge.

For stress-critical applications, post-cutting heat treatment or the selection of alternative processes like press-breaking may be necessary to restore full ductility to material near your edges.