Power, precision and speed. These are three of the characteristics of fiber-optic laser cutting. Commonly requested for manufacturing, laser cutting involves high-powered beams that use a short wave length to slice through tube, pipe or flat sheet. These truncated wave lengths are readily absorbed into metals, resulting in greater cutting speed and efficiency, as well as a cleaner edge that does not require any secondary operations.
Along these lines, we’ve recently invested in the BLM GROUP LT7, a 4 kW laser cutting system. This equipment is able to cut round, square, rectangle and open profiles, up to 6-inches, and can be programmed for angled cuts on multiple sides or edges, as specified. The efficiency of this system - which includes more accurate weld seam detection and faster centering alignment - helps increase production throughput thus helping to reduce the overall cost per part.
How it works
In fiber-optic laser cutting, light-emitting diodes produce a focused beam of light, or photon, which heats the material above its melting point to create the cut. In the same step, high-pressure nitrogen sweeps the particles of molten metal out of the kerf, the area of the material that is burned away at the focal point of the beam.
Some materials are very difficult or impossible to cut using traditional means due to their shape or type of metal. Laser cutting is ideal for aluminum, mild to high-strength steel and stainless steel. Additionally, lasering can handle highly reflective materials, as the beam is readily absorbed, versus bouncing off the surface of the metal.
Cut specifications can be met by raising or lowering the focal point of the beam from just above the surface of the plate, at the surface, or just below the surface. With the BLM LT7 technology, the beam can be tilted to form angled cuts, on the surface or edge, as specified.
Lifespan and efficiencies
In addition to being nearly maintenance-free with a long service life, fiber tube lasers are more energy-efficient. Also, fiber-optic laser cutting is safer than other methods of cutting because the beam is emitted within a closed and sealed cutting area, offering an increased level of security and reliability for the operator.
For accuracy, consistency, energy-efficiency and safety, fiber-optic laser cutting offers an efficient solution for manufacturers that have numerous parts to process.
More information on the machine technology we use for laser cutting can be found here.
This blog was authored by Paul Krickeberg, President & CEO, Sharpe Products. Paul can be reached at paulk@sharpeproducts.com.
File photo of the BLM GROUP LT7:
