This book treats the most widespread application of
high-power laser materials processing, that is, CO2
laser cutting. Although called CO2 laser cutting,
most of the content of the book is also valid for cutting
with other lasers such as Nd:YAG or Cu Vapor lasers. The
technology is described in a very useful style by emphasizing
practical aspects and by replacing highly scientific phrases
by clear, illustrative explanations. Nevertheless, this
guide through the complex field of laser cutting is accompanied
by critical physical explanations throughout the whole
book. It should be emphasized that Dr. Powell is the technical
director of two job shops on laser cutting, but has also
been highly active in science for many years. This ideal
combination of practical experience with scientific know-how
is reflected throughout the whole book by highlighting
the practical aspects of laser cutting, often accompanied
by very critical scientific explanations. It should be
noted that the present second edition of the book differs
from the first edition, printed in 1993, only by several
pages that had to be updated according to the state of
the art.