That's the rub with Laser cutters. When they run, they RUN! When they break, it can get expensive very fast. The advantage with a laser is faster cutting speeds(to a point mind you!), smaller kerf, etc. We make and sell two models, a ball screw driven laser and one that is driven by linear motors. The linear motor model can grab like 3 g's at full accel. So on thinner material it can really perform well. We also use a DC Rofin Sinar laser source which has a higher power density than say a fast axial flow laser. What that gives is the ability to cut a given thickness with less wattage.
Salvagnini
For those who are interested, check out our website.
I'll be heading over to Italy for training in two weeks at the world head quarters.