Laser cuts, laser sensors, and other implications of laser beams have prevailed quickly in the mobile phone industry. The usage of laser marking machines is also common in advanced handsets. This blog will elaborate on the implications of laser-cut metal and the advantages and disadvantages of the technology.
Applications of laser-cut metal in mobile phones
Laser-cut metal technology is commonly used in mobile phone casing and other hardware. However, laser cutting is also widely used in cutting several materials like glass and plastic. This blog will cover all types of laser cutting used in the handsets.
Mobile casing cut
Mobile casing cut involves the back cuts and the cutting of screen glass. A common application of laser-cut metal can be observed in the laser cutting of the Apple phone casing. The mobile phone is stamped on the aluminum alloy to get the desired outlook. Case cuts and laser drilling are frequently used in the latest mobile phones.
Mobile glass cutting
The use of 3-D glass is the next-generation technology in mobile phones. Having a unique structure and ultra-thin material, traditional cutting techniques may not yield the desired results. Laser cutting is beneficial for cutting micro-thick materials. Precision and accuracy of the laser beams scan the cutting directions, leading to the best cut material at the end. In addition, advanced laser beam technology is ideal for curved workpieces for smooth and accurate cutting.
Camera sphere cutting
Today, users like to access high-resolution mobile cameras with the dual camera option. The lens and camera buttons of the mobile phone usually use sapphire material. Sapphire is scratch-resistant and carries superbly high hardness and transparency compared to glass. This camera sapphire material is cut using laser beams. Laser beams offer premium cutting without rough edges that are impossible to get with traditional cutting machines.
Laser marking
All marks on mobile phones, like the home button and back button, are applied using laser marking technology. The surface material of the phone screen evaporates chemically, changes its color, and leaves the desired mark through this advanced technique.
Laser marking is widely used in logo marks, text marks, text tags, buttons, cases, batteries, and phone accessories. Further, the internal mobile phone board and circuit board logo also use laser marking technology.
Advantages
Laser-cut technology has become an essential need of the mobile phone industry. Its appealing advantages encourage manufacturers to leave the traditional cutting methods and opt for laser beams.
Automation
Laser technology is completely automated. Mobile manufacturers need the expertise to operate laser cutting and drilling machines. Automation needs less manpower, leading to a lower cost for the human resources in the company.
Premium quality cutting
Laser cut is smoother and leaves no blurs. The quality of laser cut depends upon the type of material (glass, metal, or non-metal), thickness, and environmental temperature. Laser scanning helps to control the cut quality before starting the cutting operation.
Versatility
The versatility of the laser machines makes it a favorite to manufacturers. Using the technology, engineers can cut several materials like wood, paper, plastic, glass, acrylic, and metals. Another advantage is that laser machines also offer laser marking. Multiple functioning laser machines increase the priority of the laser cut engineers.
Accuracy
Superb smooth edges prevent the manufacturers from the cost of the after-treatments. Unlike traditional thermal cutting procedures, laser beams offer premium quality cutting.
Repeat consistency
Laser technology is completely automated, which improves the repetition consistency. Manufacturers can get bulk products just like the original model.
High speed
Laser technology beats other thermal cutters in speed and accuracy. It offers high speed and power to the manufacturing process.
Disadvantages
High cost
Traditional cutting machines are cheaper than laser technology. Laser cutting increases the upfront cost of the production. That is one of the main reasons for price hikes in advanced handsets.
Health hazards
Several health hazards are associated with the laser cutting. As the beams melt the required material, it emits dangerous gases and fumes. Workers are instructed to wear safety gear before starting the laser-cutting project.
Limited metal thickness
Laser technology is usually used for ultra-thin materials. It can cut precisely up to 15mm to 20mm metals or any material.
From the exterior to the interior components of the mobile phone, all are designed through laser equipment. Booming laser technology has increased the upfront cost of production. But, the precision, quality control, and high performance make this technology successful and a favorite to mobile phone engineers. However, laser technology cannot be used without expertise. Workers need skillful training and knowledge to implement the technique. Moreover, ample ventilation and a safe work environment should be provided for the laser beam processes.