How to Cut Metal with Fiber Laser Engraver Using LightBurn

Step 1.Before starting, prepare the following:

• A fiber laser engraver (ComMarker Titan 200w in this guide)
• 110 mm lens
• LightBurn software and a computer
• Metal material （2mm stainless steel sheet in this guide)
• Metal sheet holder or clamp (recommended for materials thicker than 1 mm)
• Proper laser safety glasses
• Ventilation system (ComMarker Fume Extractor)

Step 2. Machine and material setup

1)Place your metal sheet flat on the work surface.

Note: For materials thicker than 1 mm, secure the metal firmly using a metal sheet holder or clamp. Heat buildup during cutting can cause warping, and proper fixation prevents movement or distortion.

2) Turn on the laser machine, connect the computer with the laser engraver.

3) Raise or lower the laser head until it reaches the focal distance specified in the manual.

Step 3.Import your design into LightBurn.

Click Ungroup so each element can be controlled individually.

Arrange the cutting order properly.

Note: 

Cut the smallest internal shapes first and Move gradually to larger shapes

Cut the outermost contour last

This prevents parts from shifting once inner areas are removed and ensures cleaner results.

Use the Preview function in LightBurn to verify the cutting path before starting.

Step 4. Cutting strategies for different scenarios

1)Simple Cut (Thin Metal, Single Shape)

Set the layer to Line Mode

Use high power (near maximum for thin metal)

Use medium to slow speed

Enable multiple passes

Note: 

Instead of trying to cut through in one pass,  we recommend using low power if your fiber laser engraving machine is above 60w and use multiple passes to cut metal cleanly.

2)Small Cuts (Inner Shapes & Fine Details)

For tiny shapes and internal details:

Use Fill Mode

Enable Bi-directional Fill

Enable Crosshatch

Input your settings

(200w fiber laser cutting setting)

If you are unsure how many passes are needed, turn on Run Continuously and let the laser repeat passes until the material is fully cut.

3) Extended Cuts (Thicker Material & Outer Contours)

For metal thicker than 0.5 mm:

Switch to Offset Mode

Note: 

Offset Mode thickens the outline path. This allows the laser to dwell longer in the same region, increasing heat accumulation and improving cutting efficiency.

Use Fill Mode

Enable Bi-directional Fill

Enable Crosshatch

Input your settings

(200w fiber laser cutting setting)

Cut the final outermost contour last

Important Notes and Safety Considerations

• Ensure proper ventilation at all times. Metal cutting produces fumes and fine particles.
• Secure material firmly to prevent heat-induced warping and re-welding.
• Never leave the machine unattended when using continuous run mode.
• Do not touch the metal immediately after cutting as it can be extremely hot.
• Always wear laser safety glasses rated for fiber laser wavelengths.
• Perform small test cuts before full production runs.