What is Fiber laser cutting machine?

Fiber laser cutting machine is an automated metal cutting machine that works with a CAM software-driven CNC controller to command a 1064nm laser beam to cut the shape and contour of metal plates, tubes, bars, and strips according to a CAD-designed layout file. Software used to complete metal fabrication projects. It is a precision cutting tool for plates and tubes as well as flat and beveled metal profiles. With the help of a robotic arm, it is easy to create personalized 3D metal cuts. Non-contact cutting without damage to the substrate and with low thermal impact in the point irradiation area. Fiber laser cutters are capable of cutting metals as thin as 1 mm and as thick as 200 mm with a power range from 1000 W to 20,000 W and a maximum speed of more than 60 m/min. Fiber lasers can handle a wide range of materials from hard metals such as stainless steel, mild steel, carbon steel, spring steel, silicon steel, iron and alloys to highly reflective metals such as aluminum, gold, silver, copper and brass, which makes them popular for both home and commercial use.

How does a laser beam-cutting machine work?

A laser beam is a form of light generated through the transition of atoms, molecules, or ions. Unlike ordinary light, it relies on spontaneous emission for only a brief duration. The subsequent process is entirely determined by excitation radiation, resulting in a pure color, minimal divergence direction, and exceptionally high luminous intensity and coherence.

This automated process utilizes high power and high-density energy from a focused beam to melt and vaporize various materials, including metal, wood, acrylic, plastic, fabric, leather, and foam, to achieve precise cuts.

Controlled by a CNC (Computer Numerical Control) system, the generator outputs high frequency to create a beam with a specific frequency and pulse width. The beam travels through the optical path, undergoes reflection, and is focused by a lens group. This forms a tiny, high-energy-density light spot on the part's surface, with the focus near the cutting surface. The material undergoes melting or vaporization due to instantaneous high temperature, with each pulse creating a small hole in the substrate.

Through continuous relative motion guided by the CNC system and a design file, the machine head and base material perform cutting, shaping the material as required. Process parameters such as cutting speed, power, gas pressure, and movement trajectory are controlled by the CNC system. The slag produced during cutting is blown away by auxiliary gas at a specified pressure.

The generator's emitted beam, focused by the optical system, becomes a high-power density beam that irradiates the part's surface. The high-pressure gas, co-axial with the beam, blows away the melted or vaporized material. As the beam moves relative to the part, it cuts through the material, achieving the cutting objective. Different powers are suitable for cutting items of varying thicknesses, with higher power typically used for thicker parts. The appropriate choice should be made based on specific requirements.

What is a laser cutting system used for?

They are the most common automatic cutting tools and are used in a wide range of applications including personalization (customization), digital printing, medical technology, factory laboratories, education, architectural models, smartphones and laptops, computers and electronics, toys, watches, art and crafts, prizes, trophies, rubber stamps, packaging design, die cutting, mold making, sign making, display making, premiums, electronic industry, automotive industry, signage, mechanical engineering, ball bearings, jewelry making, fashion clothing fabrics, templates, Paper cards, automotive floor mats and padding, textile and clothing industry, barcode serial numbers, watches, machining industry, data board industry, packaging industry.

Benefits of Fiber Laser Machines in Sheet Metal Cutting

1. Precision and Accuracy

High Precision: Fiber laser machines offer extremely high precision, allowing for intricate and detailed cuts with minimal tolerances.

Repeatability: Ensures consistent quality across multiple cuts, essential for mass production.

2. Speed and Efficiency

Faster Cutting Speeds: Fiber lasers can cut through materials much faster than traditional methods, increasing productivity.

Reduced Downtime: Quicker setup times and less maintenance lead to higher overall efficiency.

3. Versatility

Material Variety: Suitable for cutting various types of sheet metal, including stainless steel, aluminum, brass, and copper.

Thickness Range: Capable of cutting both thin and thick materials with ease.

4. Quality of Cuts

Smooth Edges: Produces clean, burr-free edges, reducing the need for secondary finishing processes.

Minimal Heat Affected Zone (HAZ): The precise nature of fiber lasers results in a smaller HAZ, preserving the integrity of the material.

5. Cost-Effectiveness

Lower Operating Costs: Fiber lasers are energy-efficient, using less power than other cutting technologies.

Reduced Material Waste: The accuracy of fiber lasers minimizes material wastage, leading to cost savings.

6. Low Maintenance

Durability: Fiber laser machines have fewer moving parts and require less maintenance compared to CO2 lasers.

Longer Lifespan: The laser source in fiber lasers typically has a longer lifespan, reducing downtime and replacement costs.

7. Environmental Benefits

Energy Efficiency: Consumes less energy, contributing to lower operational costs and a reduced carbon footprint.

Clean Process: Produces fewer emissions and pollutants compared to traditional cutting methods.