Comparison of the PMMA mechanical properties after cutting by the laser beam and milling

This research was focused on characterization of the influence of laser cutting on the material made from the PMMA. The comparison of mechanical properties of samples cut by the laser beam to the properties, obtained after the conventional method of cutting by milling, are presented in this paper, as well. The 4 mm thick samples were prepared from the PMMA and subjected to tensile test to establish their material strength after the two different types of cutting. Samples that were cut by the laser beam were also subjected to tempering to improve their mechanical properties. It was concluded that the way of cutting has a strong influence on the PMMA samples mechanical properties. The outcome of the experiment is a direct assessment of roughness of the cut samples. It is shown that the laser cutting produces lower values of the surface roughness. However, for manufacturing the structural elements, the more suitable would be application of the milling technology since it results in better mechanical properties of the cut sample.