Table of Contents
Overview
What is a Fiber Laser Cutter and how does it work? Let’s dive in.
A Fiber Laser Cutting Machine operates by firing a laser beam from a laser generator. The beam is then focused into a high power density laser beam through the optical path system.
The laser beam heats the surface of the workpiece to its melting or boiling point, while a high-pressure gas is used to blow away the melted or vaporized metal. By moving the beam and adjusting the position of the workpiece, the material is finally cut to achieve the desired cutting result.
Laser cutting is a modern alternative to traditional mechanical knives, offering high precision, fast cutting, unlimited cutting patterns, automatic material saving, smooth incisions, and low processing costs.
In addition, fiber laser cutting is continually improving and replacing traditional metal cutting equipment.
- The mechanical components of the laser cutter do not come into contact with the workpiece, thus avoiding scratching during operation.
- Laser cutting is fast and results in smooth incisions with no need for additional processing.
- The heat-affected area is small, minimizing plate deformation and resulting in narrow slits (0.1mm to 0.3mm).
- No mechanical stress, no shear burr.
- High machining accuracy, good repeatability, no damage to the material surface.
- Numerical control programming allows for the processing of any flat shape.
- Can cut a large piece from an entire plate without the need to open a mold, saving time.
Working Principle of Fiber Laser Cutting Machine
Laser cutting utilizes the laser beam as a heat source for hot cutting, with a working principle similar to that of laser welding. The temperature of laser cutting exceeds 11000°C, causing materials to gasify, which plays an important role in addition to melting during the cutting process. For some materials, such as carbon and ceramics, the laser cutting process is purely a gasification process.
The laser cutting of metal is mostly performed using high-power carbon dioxide continuous laser generators. During cutting, an inert gas flow is used to blow out the incision, smoothing and straightening the melted metal. The addition of an oxygen flow from the jet increases the cutting speed.
Laser cutting offers a narrow incision, precise size, and smooth surface, resulting in better cutting quality compared to other hot cutting methods. Most metal materials can be cut by laser, with a cutting thickness ranging from a few microns to 50 mm.
Investment in laser cutting equipment is high, but it is mainly used for precision cutting of materials with thicknesses under 12 mm, including stainless steel, titanium, titanium alloys, refractory metals, and precious metals. It can also be used for cutting non-metallic materials such as plastic, wood, cloth, graphite, and ceramics. For example, the wood processing industry uses lasers to cut plywood and particle board, while the garment industry uses lasers to cut cloth.
Laser cutting is also suitable for special purposes, such as stone bearing drilling and surgery, where lasers are used as scalpels. The parameters of the laser beam, performance and precision of the laser cutting machine, and the NC system directly impact the efficiency and quality of laser cutting.
Fiber Laser Cutter Structure
A fiber laser cutter consists of several key components and features a robust structure designed to facilitate precise and efficient laser cutting operations. Here is an overview of the typical structure of a fiber laser cutter:
Machine Frame:
The frame forms the basic structure of the fiber laser cutter, providing stability and support for all other components. It is often made of welded steel or other durable materials to ensure rigidity during the cutting process.
Gantry System:
The gantry system, also known as the bridge, is a movable structure that traverses along the length of the machine. It supports the laser cutting head and other essential components, enabling precise movement over the workpiece.
Laser Source:
The laser source is a fundamental component that generates the high-intensity laser beam used for cutting. In fiber laser cutters, a fiber optic cable delivers the laser beam from the source to the cutting head.
Cutting Head:
The cutting head is responsible for focusing and directing the laser beam onto the workpiece. It often includes a lens system and nozzle to control the beam’s focal point and protect the lens from debris.
Worktable:
The worktable provides a stable surface for holding the workpiece during the cutting process. Depending on the machine design, the worktable may be fixed or have a movable bed for automatic material feeding.
Control Panel:
The control panel houses the machine’s user interface, allowing operators to input cutting parameters, control machine movements, and monitor the cutting process. It may feature a touchscreen display and a control system that utilizes CNC (Computer Numerical Control) technology.
X, Y, Z Axes:
The X, Y, and Z axes represent the three-dimensional coordinate system that defines the movement of the cutting head and workpiece. The X-axis corresponds to movement along the length of the machine, the Y-axis along the width, and the Z-axis for vertical movement.
Motors and Drives:
Motors and drives are responsible for moving the various components along the X, Y, and Z axes. Precise and synchronized movement is crucial for achieving accurate cuts.
Cooling System:
Fiber laser sources generate heat during operation, and a cooling system is essential to maintain optimal operating temperatures. This may involve the use of water or other cooling methods to dissipate heat effectively.
Exhaust System:
An exhaust system removes fumes, smoke, and debris generated during the cutting process. This is crucial for maintaining a clean and safe working environment.
Safety Features:
Fiber laser cutters are equipped with safety features such as protective enclosures, emergency stop buttons, and laser safety systems to ensure the well-being of operators and comply with safety regulations.
The combination of these components forms the integrated structure of a fiber laser cutter, enabling precise and efficient cutting of various materials in industrial applications. The design and features may vary among different models and manufacturers.
Summary
A fiber laser cutting machine is an advanced industrial tool used for precision cutting of various materials using a high-powered fiber laser beam. This type of cutting machine has gained popularity due to its efficiency, speed, and versatility in handling different materials, particularly metals.
Fiber laser cutting machines are widely used in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and sheet metal fabrication for their ability to cut materials with high precision, speed, and efficiency. They are especially effective for cutting metals like steel, aluminum, and copper.
