Tube Laser Cutting Systems Explained

Any job shop will have to offer a variety of options. This is also true for tube laser operators. It is not uncommon to see parts of different sizes coming from the same tube. It must be capable of loading laser-cut parts up to 2 in. The machine must be able to unload laser-cut parts as small as 2 in. and as long at 15 ft. one after another. It must also be capable of unloading those parts without damaging the rest. This is especially important for soft metals such aluminum.

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The CO2 solution to large-diameter tubes and profiles Tubes up O14" / 24", (355 mm, 610 mm).3D cutting modeCO2 laser

Some things aren’t quite as evident until you take a closer look at a fiber laser in operation. Because its beam diameter is often one-third the size of a CO2 beam, a fiber laser has a greater power density than a CO2 laser beam. Not only does this allow the fiber to cut faster, but it also allows it to pierce faster. This smaller beam size also gives the fiber the ability to cut intricate shapes and leave sharp edges. Imagine cutting a company logo out of a tube when the spacing between the logo’s letters is 0.035 inch; a fiber can make that cut, while a CO2 laser can’t.

The very nature of a tube prevents the need for a machine with a very high-powered laser. Whereas flat sheet laser cutting machines now are available with laser generators as powerful as 12 kW, tube laser cutting machines usually only require a maximum of 5 kW of power. With a tube, you always have to think about the opposite side of the tube you are cutting. A more powerful laser simply would blow through the other side of the tube during cutting. (Of course, if you are processing a beam or a channel on the tube laser you don’t have to worry about another side.)

There is no shortage of variety in any job shop. Parts of various sizes are not uncommon when you use one tube. The machine should be able unload laser-cut pieces as small as 2in. It can also be extended up to 15 feet, one after the other. It must also be in a position to lift the parts and not damage them. This is often a problem for aluminum or other softer metals.

The maintenance of a fiber laser is not as important. It doesn't need mirror cleaning or bellows checks like a CO2 Laser Cutting Machine. It does not need to be cooled with cold water, and air filters can be replaced regularly.

A weld-seam is an additional consideration when cutting tube. This material can be roll-formed and welded together. This raises two issues that must be addressed.