many materials that are otherwise difficult to fabricate can be cut precisely with lasers. this presentation discusses the advantages and limitations of laser cutting for refractory metals, ceramics, and composites. cutting in these materials was performed with a 400-w, pulsed nd:yag laser. important cutting parameters such as beam power, pulse waveforms, cutting gases, travel speed, and laser coupling are outlined. the effects of process parameters on cut quality are evaluated. three variables are used to determine the cut quality: kerf width, slag adherence, and metallurgical characteristics of recast layers and heat-affected zones around the cuts. results indicate that ductile materials with good coupling characteristics (such as stainless steel alloys and tantalum) cut well. materials lacking one or both of these properties (such as tungsten and ceramics) are difficult to cut without proper part design, stress relief, or coupling aids. 3 refs., 2 figs., 1 tab