Using a laser cutting machine efficiently and effectively requires careful attention to detail and adherence to best practices. Here are some useful tips for maximizing the performance and longevity of a laser cutting machine。 In fact, there are things we need to pay attention to before, during and after using the laser cutting machine.
What You Should Notice When Using a Laser Cutting Machine
Before Use:
- Before using the machine, all the operators should accept training on potential risks, operation procedures, and safety precaution measurements. What’s more, the detailed procedure of the specific machine and interlocks should be covered. New operators must undergo training and refresher courses at predetermined intervals.
- Check the filter, and replace it according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Verify all are aware of potential risks, controlling measurements, proper use of operation procedures and equipment of manufacture (including materials allowed to be cut), emergency procedures, and equipment cleaning.
- Wear regulative PPE. The safety glasses can protect the eyes from particles and debris damage. Wear heatproof gloves that can protect the skin from burns. And face mask and respirator can be used to isolate toxic fumes.
- Ensure that there is no flammable material near the laser cutting machine.
- Install the fire extinguisher on the wall near the laser-cutting machine. The fire extinguisher must be mounted to a place that is easy access to touch. Meanwhile, the channel of the fire extinguisher can not be blocked by the on the ground, or another machine sits in front of it.
- Know how the laser pulse rate affects the chance of fire and the resolution of the cut. The laser cutting machine uses pulse firing mode to increase its climax light energy. A pulsed laser provides a short pulse under higher power instead of emitting a constant power output. The laser can “store” the energy between pulses. Thus the slower pulse speed can generate more power. On the contrary, the higher pulse rate features lower climax energy. Therefore, lower pulse frequencies have a higher risk of causing a fire in the material being cut.
During Use:
- Please always follow the manufacturer’s specifications when operating the laser cutting machine. The manufacturer knows the machine’s restriction design and risks. Each device has interlocks and design functions to ensure the user and equipment’s safety. After buying the tooling, please read the safety and operation manual thoroughly. If the manufacturer suggests restrictions and emphasizes the specific risks, please pay more attention and obey these rules.
- Only the material approved by the laser cutting machine manufacturer can be used. Some materials are unsafe for laser cutting machines for two reasons: the risk of fire is high, and another is releasing toxic fumes when contacted with lasers. So, some precautious measurements should be taken before cutting, and analysis of each material is necessary.
- Ensure all the covers are correctly positioned, and do not avoid the safety interlocks inside the laser cutting machine. The safety interlocks are indispensable for their functions. The laser is usually classified as Class 3B or Class 4. If you see the laser directly (sometimes even indirectly), your eyes will be hurt or lead to skin damage or fire. Owing to the interlock setting inside the laser cutting machine, the laser cutting machine can be sold as Class 1. This means the device complies with international safety regulations. Thus, the buyers will not contact dangerous laser machines.
- Leave the material on the cutting bed until it is cool enough to touch.
- If the air filter or exhaust system fails, please stop the operation immediately and then inform your supervisor or workshop coordinator.
- Keep a diary. The blog can contain who uses the laser cutting machine, cutting time, and cutting material. It is essential to record which materials are cut and who cut them. Some materials may leave flammable debris. What’s more, if any tooling fails, you can ask the last one who uses the machine so that the new operator can know about the previous machine’s previous work. The working time of the laser cutting machine is also very essential. Thus the device can be maintained regularly.
- Do not keep the machine working under no supervision. Due to fire risk, supervision is needed when operating. There is an external fire possibility when high-power lasers are used.
- Due to fire risks, the laser cutting machine should not be applied to the wood surface. Put the laser cutting machine on solid, non-flammable surfaces like concrete and steel decks.
After Use:
After using the cutting machine, please clean the debris and the flammable materials from the laser cycle.
It is very important to absorb debris from the cutting head and inside of the laser cutting machine regularly to avoid fire hazards.
Dust accumulation inside laser cutting machine housing will significantly increase the fire hazard.
The dust particles are tiny, and thus have a large surface area to volume ratio.
This allows for mass air(oxygen) to always be in contact with particles. Thus, the dust is easier to flame compared with solids of the same materials.
Do’s and Don’ts:
Don’ts
Please do not modify or limit any safety function of the laser systems.
Please do not directly observe through the optical equipment.
Do’s
Before using, please check the machine inside visually. If there is debris and residue, please clean the tray.
Keep a first aid kit available and within easy reach. It is used to heat burning.
Warning signs are necessary to inform about exposure risks during use and maintenance.
By following these tips and best practices, users can enhance the performance, reliability, and safety of laser cutting machines, resulting in improved cutting quality, productivity, and overall efficiency in manufacturing operations.
