Materials that are heat treatable will get case hardened at the cut edges. This may be beneficial if the hardened edges are functionally desirable in the finished parts. However, if further machining operations such as threading are required, then hardening is a problem. A hole cut with a laser has an entry diameter larger than the exit diameter, creating a slightly tapered hole. Contrast this with normal piercing operations with the recommended hole size 1.2 times the stock thickness.
Burrs are quite small compared to blanking and shearing.
They can be almost eliminated when 3D lasers are used and further, eliminate the need for secondary deburring operations. As in blanking and piercing, considerable economies can be obtained by nesting parts, and cutting along common lines. In addition, secondary deburring operations can be reduced or eliminated.