Tube
The laser generating technology that is used to produce sheet laser cutting machines can be upgraded to deliver as much as 12 kW. A laser tube cutter typically produces 5 kW of power, because more power would simultaneously cut through both ends of the tube.
Fiber lasers have wavelengths of 1.06 microns. This wavelength is 10 percent lower than the CO2 laser beam. Fiber lasers have a much shorter wavelength which makes them more able to absorb reflective material. CO2 lasers are more likely reflect off these surfaces. Fiber laser cutting machines can be used to cut brass and copper as well as other reflective materials. The machine's laser beam, as well as the beam path, can be damaged by a CO2 laser beam reflected off the material. This risk is eliminated if the beam path is used with a fiber optic cable.
You can take a look at our StarCut Tube production area and lab to learn more about these multi-axis CNC machines for tubes, flat materials and medical devices like catheter shafts and hypotubes.
A tube is very flexible and does not require a high-powered laser. Laser generators with a power output of 12 kW are now possible for flat sheet cutting machines. Tube laser cutters require a power consumption of only 5 kW. To cut a tube you must always look at the opposite end of the tube. A stronger laser would simply blow through your tube while cutting. (Officially, if the laser is processing a beam and a channel on the tube's laser, there are no need to worry about any other side.
Another consideration in tube cutting is the weld seam. This material is roll-formed and welded together. This brings up two points that typically must be addressed:
Machine manufacturers have begun using cameras to perform tube inspections. They can reduce the time it takes to inspect quality tubes and also reduce the amount of rotations needed. This allows for both productivity and accuracy to be maintained.
The CO2 resonator is much larger and requires more energy, as electricity is introduced to a combination of gases to produce the laser beam. Mirrors help the light gain in intensity, preparing it to exit the resonator. After exiting the resonator, the beam must travel through a path comprising several cooled mirrors until it reaches the lens. This travel causes a loss of power and quality in the laser beam.
Every need has its own cutting technology. The materials to be processed, as well as the desired level of productivity and cutting quality, allow users to choose between CO2 and fiber laser cutting systems.
Laser system that combines sheet and tube metal cutting. Tubes upto O 4.72" (120mm).Sheets upto 236"x79" (6000mm x 2000mm)Fiber Laser
NIT shows how a Coherent laser cutter machine can be used for vertical manufacturing of Nitinol or other metal components. This machine has outstanding precision and edge-quality.
Parts are held by automatic tabbing (do in FabCreator) and a set jaws on both the idler and drive chuck.
NIT uses a Coherent Laser Cutting Machine to Vertically Produce Nitinol and Other Metal Components with outstanding precision and edge quality.
Secondary operations are eliminated: A tube Laser can cut a length of piece, add holes and cutout other designs in one operation. It also eliminates the need for additional actions like manual material removal. For more complex fabrications, you can maintain tight tolerances. Parts can easily be manufactured from one continuous raw material. Tube laser aluminum, stainless-steel and carbon can be made.
Gulf States Saw & Machinery Co., Inc. is a team made up of experienced professionals who can work with clients to create innovative designs that will improve aesthetics, increase functionality, and help them bring new products on the market more quickly.