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As long as you are getting a CO2 laser tube with the same length and diameter as your old tube, the brand is interchangeable.
A CO2 laser tube should last anywhere from 1-3 years. However, if your laser tube is cracked or compromised, you should replace it immediately.
A CO₂ laser tube is the part of a laser machine that creates the laser beam used for cutting and engraving. It works by exciting a gas mixture (mostly carbon dioxide) with electricity, which produces a powerful beam of light. This beam is then directed and focused onto materials like wood, acrylic, leather, and more to cut or engrave designs with high precision.
For laser cutting or engraving with a CO₂ laser, you usually only need one session per project. The machine completes the job in a single run, depending on the design and material. However, you might do multiple passes if:
deeper engraving
thicker materials
lower power settings to avoid burning
In short: one session does the job, but you can repeat if needed for depth or detail.
A CO₂ laser can definitely be worth the money if you’re planning to use it for crafting, customization, or small business production. It’s a versatile machine that cuts and engraves a wide range of materials like wood, acrylic, leather, and more with precision. Many users are able to make a return on their investment by selling custom products or offering services. While there are upfront costs and some maintenance over time, the quality, speed, and creative potential make it a valuable tool for both hobbyists and professionals.
No, you can’t just put any laser tube into your CO₂ laser machine. The laser tube must be compatible with your machine’s:
(e.g. 40W, 60W, 100W, etc.)
(length and diameter must fit in the tube compartment)
(must match the tube’s voltage/current requirements)
(most CO₂ tubes are water-cooled—make sure yours can handle the new tube). Using an incompatible tube can damage your machine or reduce performance. Always check your machine’s specs or manual, or ask the manufacturer or supplier for guidance before replacing the tube.
Most CO₂ laser users replace their tubes every 1 to 3 years, depending on how often and how hard the machine is used.
Here’s a general breakdown:
Tube can last 2–3 years
Expect to replace it in 12–18 months
Might need replacing every 6–12 months. Glass CO₂ tubes typically last around 1,000–3,000 hours, while metal RF tubes can go up to 10,000 hours, but they cost a lot more.
If you notice weaker cuts, slower engraving, or inconsistent performance, it might be time for a new tube—even if it hasn’t fully died yet.