PASS DEPTH

Glossary

Pass depth

Depth per pass

Pass depth is how far into the material one pass at given power and speed actually reaches. It is the number this site is named for — because it, not the wattage sticker, decides what your machine can cut.

Doubling power does not double pass depth; char, smoke shielding, and focus cone all fight you. Past a point, more passes beat more power: each pass clears debris and re-exposes fresh material.

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