Based on the thermal effect and material removal mechanism of a high-power laser beam. A laser generates a high-energy-density beam, which is focused into an extremely small spot (less than 0.1 mm in diameter) via an optical system and directed onto the metal sheet surface. The laser’s high energy rapidly heats the metal locally to its melting or vaporization point, while an assist gas (such as nitrogen, oxygen, or air) is blown at high pressure to expel the molten or vaporized metal from the cut, forming a kerf.