Laser machining technology uses an intense beam of light from a laser of different widths for a variety of applications. Some applications done with a laser machine include cutting, slotting and creating holes.

This technology can be used to help fabricated many different types of materials. Some types of materials laser machining can be used in fabrication of are carbon fiber, composites, ceramics, glass, marble, metals, nylon, plastics, vinyl and thin metal foils.

Laser machining is used to produce a roughened surface on metals, ceramics and glass. This technology is also used for marking material surfaces. In this process a high intensity laser beam is passed through a stencil of a mirror and onto the area of the material being marked.

Electron beam machining is a process which uses high velocity electrons directed at the material being worked on. This process creates heat which will vaporize the material. Electron beam machining is used for annealing, welding and metal removal. Electron beam machining is very accurate in cutting a large variety of metals.

Electromagnetic lenses are used to direct the electron beam in the electron beam machining process. The electromagnetic lenses use deflection to direct the electron beam into a vacuum. The electrons strike the top layer of what is being worked on. The electrons will remove the material and then become trapped in some layer beneath the surface.

This process is similar to laser machining, but requires a vacuum. Due to the need of a vacuum it is not used as frequently as laser machining. A vacuum is used to reduce contamination and minimize electron collisions with air molecules. Electron beam machining is best suited for small parts due to the need of a vacuum.