Why Choose Fiber Laser Cutting Machine For Metal Cutting?

In the realm of modern metal fabrication, precision and efficiency are paramount. Traditional cutting methods often fall short when faced with the demands for complex and high-precision work. However, the advent of fiber laser technology has ushered in a new era for metal cutting. The fiber laser cutting machine for metal, with its exceptional precision, high production speeds, and superior material utilization, has quickly become indispensable in the metal fabrication industry. This article aims to explore the extensive applications and numerous advantages of the fiber laser cutting machine for metal in metal fabrication. By reading this article, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of how to leverage fiber laser cutting machines for metal to enhance your metal fabrication operations, achieving greater efficiency and precision in your production goals.

Importance of Fiber Laser Cutting Machines In Metal Fabrication

Fiber laser cutting machines for metal have become a cornerstone of modern metal fabrication, offering unparalleled advantages over conventional methods. They employ high-intensity laser beams to cut through various types of metal with extreme accuracy, making them ideal for applications requiring intricate designs and tight tolerances. This precision is crucial in industries such as aerospace, automotive manufacturing, medical device production, and architectural decoration, where even the smallest error can lead to significant issues.

The importance of fiber laser cutting machines in metal fabrication cannot be overstated. They not only enhance the quality of the cuts but also significantly improve production efficiency. The ability to cut metals quickly and accurately reduces production times and minimizes waste, leading to cost savings and increased profitability. Furthermore, the versatility of these machines allows fabricators to work with a wide range of metals, from thin sheets to thick plates, making them indispensable tools in a variety of industrial applications.

What Is A Fiber Laser Cutting Machine and How It Works

At its core, a fiber laser cutter is a highly specialized device that employs laser technology to manipulate various materials. This machine excels at producing precise, high-quality cuts across a diverse array of materials.

The crucial element of the fiber laser cutting machine is the fiber laser itself. It generates a highly concentrated beam of light that can effortlessly slice through some of the toughest materials.

While the basic principles behind these cutting machines are largely similar to those used in conventional laser cutters, the main difference lies in how energy is transmitted and focused onto the workpiece.

At a fundamental level, a laser consists of three main components:

1. Gain Medium: The material where photons are generated and amplified.
2. Optical Pumping: The process that provides the electrical energy converted into photons within the gain medium.
3. Mirrors: These reflect light repeatedly within the gain medium, creating a concentrated light beam known as a laser beam.

This process relies on the precise regulation of electromagnetic wavelengths, enabling laser beams to transmit information with remarkable precision and efficiency.

In contrast, a fiber laser cutter uses a series of optical fibers to transmit light waves directly into the material being cut. These fibers, made from thin strands of fiber optics, allow for greater precision and more focused heat concentration, resulting in cleaner cuts and stronger bonds between materials.

Besides the fiber laser itself, other essential components of the machine include:

• Control Software: Manages the cutting process.
• Material Handling Parts: Guide and support the material being cut.

Additionally, fiber lasers can be equipped with various cutting heads of different shapes and sizes, allowing customization for specific needs and applications. This flexibility makes fiber lasers a state-of-the-art tool for cutting and manipulating a wide range of materials with unparalleled speed and accuracy.

Parameters You Should Know About Fiber Laser Cutting Machine For Metal

• Laser Modes: Fiber laser cutting can operate in two modes- continuous wave (CW) or pulsed wave (PW). The pulsed mode has very short pulses of laser beam separated by short pauses.
• Laser Power: Laser power is the average energy stored in the laser pulses. High power fiber lasers will be able to cut more challenging materials. The laser power is measured in Watts (W). The required laser power depends on the type of material you will cut with the fiber laser cutter. An important thing to note is that laser power is the average output power. A continuous laser of 100W power will emit 100W pulses. However, a pulse laser of 100W power can emit pulses as high as 10,000W.
• Pulse Frequency: Pulse frequency means the number of pulses per second. It is measured in Hertz (Hz). A higher pulse frequency transfers more heat to the workpiece particles resulting in faster cutting speeds and smoother edges.
• Beam Diameter: Beam diameter is the thickness of the laser beam. A lower beam diameter is preferred for a minimal kerf width and a highly precise cutting operation.
• Gas Pressure: Gas pressure is the parameter associated with the assist gas system. It details the pressure (flow rate in some cases) of the gases used to blow away the molten materials.
• Cutting Speed: The cutting speed refers to the linear length of the material that the fiber laser cutter can cut per unit time. It is expressed in inches per minute (IPM) or millimeters per minute (mm/min). Generally, thin materials or high power fiber lasers lead to a higher cutting speed.
• Material Thickness: The material’s thickness influences the cutting speed and the laser power you require. It can also influence the cutting quality. A higher thickness will reduce the cut quality when it comes to laser cutting.
• Lens Condition: Lens condition refers to the status of the focal lenses in the cutting head. The lens should be in good condition and free of any smudges or dirt. Damaged or dirty lenses will produce a low-quality cut or have a reduced cutting performance.
• Focal Point: The focal point of the fiber laser has the highest concentration of energy. The workpiece is kept at the focal point. The focal point is then adjusted according to the material thickness and the cut depth.
• Type of Material: Different materials have different physical characteristics. Laser cutting performance depends on factors such as material reflectivity and thermal conductivity.
• Preheating Material: The laser can take too long to melt and cut the workpiece for some materials. In such cases, the workpiece requires preheating before cutting with fiber lasers.
• Cutting Path: A linear cutting path is fast and easy to cut. However, complex paths reduce the cutting speed and require higher control over the fiber lasers. The laser cutting will be slowest at sharp corners.

Core Components of Fiber Laser Cutting Machine For Metal

Fiber Laser Source

A fiber laser cutting machine utilizes a fiber laser source that generates the concentrated beam of laser for precise material processing. Unlike traditional CO2 lasers, the fiber laser produces the highly efficient laser bean, delivering superior beam quality, faster cutting speeds and reduced maintenance requirements. It allows for easy integration into various cutting systems and excels in cutting a wide range of materials, Indispensable for industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and aerospace to achieve intricate cuts with high accuracy.

It gives higher efficiency, converting a greater percentage of input energy into laser output. Results in reduced power consumption and operating costs with superior beam quality. Enable the finer precise cut, have a longer lifespan, require minimal maintenance and ensure faster cutting speeds. It is the preferred choice for industries seeking high-performance, cost-effective and versatile cutting solutions.

Servo Motors and Drives

The servo motor plays an important role in the operation of fiber laser cutting machines. It has precise control over the motion of the laser cutting head, assists with accurate positioning and rapid movement. Generates high torque and follows intricate paths with minimal error. The advanced drive system gives consistent speed and positioning accuracy to achieve intricate designs. The integration of servo technology enhances overall processing, reduces material waste and facilitates the production of complex components. Constantly monitor & adjust performance, ensuring optimal cutting results across various materials and integral to the reliability of modern fiber laser cutting processes.

It delivers unmatched precision and control, leveraging high torque for swift and precise positioning, essential for intricate cutting tasks. Its consistent speed and torque adaptation under varying loads uphold cutting quality and efficiency. With rapid acceleration and deceleration capabilities, it optimizes cycle times, boosting productivity. Real-time adjustments ensure peak performance, while the servo motor’s reliability and low maintenance needs minimize downtime and operational expenses. This system enhances performance, accuracy, and reliability in precise manufacturing applications.

Fiber Laser Head

The fiber laser head directs the laser beam precisely onto the workpiece. It comprises essential components such as focusing lenses, protective nozzles, and optionally, a height sensor. The focusing lens concentrates the laser into a small spot, ensuring efficient material removal and high-quality cuts. Surrounding protective nozzles shield the lens from debris and gases generated during operation, extending its lifespan and preserving cutting accuracy. Integrated height sensors maintain a consistent distance between the head and the workpiece, compensating for material variations and surface irregularities. The design and functionality of the head significantly influence the machine’s performance, precision, and the quality of the final products.

The head plays the pivotal role in achieving high-quality cuts with precision and the design ensures efficient beam delivery to the workpiece. Assisting with the consistent and uniform cutting. The focusing lens within the laser head gives the concentrated beam, facilitating detailed cuts even on thin materials. The advanced height sensors give optimal focal distance, compensating for material variations. Overall, it enhances the efficiency for achieving superior cutting results.

Frame

The machine frame acts as the structural core, providing stability, rigidity, and support for all components. Constructed from durable materials and subjected to annealing for increased ductility, it operates with minimal vibrations crucial for achieving precise cuts. A gantry design supports the movement of the laser head across the worktable, while the frame’s rigidity prevents flexing or distortion. Its robustness ensures longevity, reliability, and the ability to withstand operational stresses. Designed for easy maintenance and component replacement, the frame sustains machine efficiency throughout its lifecycle in diverse industrial environments.

As the foundational structure, the frame ensures stability, reduces vibration, and supports the bridge mechanism. Ultimately, it is indispensable for optimizing performance and ensuring the long-term reliability of fiber laser cutting machines.

Rack and Gear System

The helical rack and gear system translates the rotational motion of the machine’s servo motors into precise linear movement. Resulting in smoother & quieter operation, minimizing backlash and enhancing overall motion accuracy & repeatability. Delivers the precise and synchronized movement of the laser cutting head. Distributing the load and extending the system’s lifespan. This mechanism enables rapid acceleration, facilitating faster cutting speeds without compromising on precision. The integration enhances the performance and reliability of various industrial applications.

It provides motion control, reducing operational noise and angled teeth engagement which is smoother compared to traditional straight-toothed gear. Designed to minimize the backlash, repeatable positioning and crucial for high-accuracy cuts. This configuration distributes the loads evenly, reducing wear and extending system longevity. Handles handle rapid acceleration and deceleration enhancing cutting efficiency. Optimizes the direction of the movement, constant performance in fiber laser cutting machines.

What Metals Can Fiber Laser Cutting Machine Cut

For many years, fiber laser cutting machines struggled with processing highly reflective surfaces, such as those of copper, brass, aluminum, and polished stainless steel. The reflected energy could potentially damage the machine, leading to expensive repairs. However, advancements in technology have addressed this challenge through the integration of back reflection technology in fiber laser cutting machines. This innovation has made it feasible to cut reflective metals of various thicknesses effectively.

Additionally, fiber laser beams are significantly more concentrated and denser than CO2 laser beams. With a finer focal point, fiber lasers can easily penetrate metals, enhancing cutting quality and precision. This capability ensures superior results in cutting a wide range of materials.

1. Stainless Steel Fiber laser cutters excel in processing stainless steel parts swiftly and cost-effectively compared to CO2 lasers, plasma, and water jet cutting machines.For cutting stainless steel sheets, single-layer nozzles with nitrogen as the auxiliary gas are commonly used. Nitrogen prevents oxidation on the cut surfaces, reducing prep time before welding and enhancing cut quality. Assist gases also help by blowing away molten residue, preventing inconsistencies around the kerf line.
2. Carbon Steels/Mild Steel Fiber lasers are widely used in industries for cutting carbon steel and mild steel. A 6000W laser power can efficiently cut carbon steel sheets up to 22 mm thick, with nitrogen used for optimal quality. Oxygen, on the other hand, is preferred for plates thicker than 10 mm due to its exothermic reaction, which aids in faster cutting.
3. Aluminum and its Alloys Aluminum, being highly reflective, requires fiber laser cutters equipped with reflection absorption systems to prevent damage. Cutting thicker aluminum sheets (>20mm) significantly affects cutting quality. High laser power, along with nitrogen or air as assist gases, ensures smoother kerf lines and reduces burrs on thin plates.
4. Copper and its Alloys Copper and brass, also reflective metals, demand high laser power for effective cutting. Oxygen is used for copper to reduce reflectivity, while nitrogen is preferred for brass cutting.
5. Titanium Fiber lasers can easily cut titanium alloys up to 10 mm thick without compromising material integrity. Nitrogen and argon are used as assist gases to ensure clean cuts without burrs.
6. Nickel Alloys Known for their strength and corrosion resistance, nickel alloys are precisely cut using fiber lasers, preserving their properties due to the laser’s high-intensity beam.
7. Plastic Fiber lasers can cut specific plastics like POM, acrylic, and polyoxymethylene with precision, delivering smooth edges and finishes suitable for various applications.
8. Other Materials Fiber lasers are versatile enough to cut materials such as cardboard, paper, foam, suede, leather, and rubber (chlorine-free), ensuring detailed and clean cuts suitable for intricate designs and patterns.

Each material requires specific parameters and assist gases to achieve optimal cutting results, making fiber laser cutting machines indispensable in various manufacturing and fabrication processes.

What are the Benefits of Fiber Laser Cutting Machine？

1. Precision and Versatility: Fiber lasers provide superior beam quality and high focusability, allowing for extremely precise cutting of various materials. This capability enables intricate designs and precise cuts even on thin materials, contributing to enhanced manufacturing flexibility.
2. High Speed Cutting: Fiber lasers are capable of cutting thin materials at exceptionally high speeds. This efficiency is crucial in industries where productivity and throughput are paramount, such as automotive and electronics manufacturing.
3. Ability to Cut Reflective Materials: Unlike other types of lasers, fiber lasers can cut reflective materials like copper, brass, and aluminum without the risk of back reflections that could damage the machine. This versatility expands the range of materials that can be processed effectively.
4. Minimal Heat Affected Zone (HAZ): Fiber lasers generate a concentrated beam that minimizes the heat transferred to the surrounding material during cutting. This results in a small heat affected zone, reducing the risk of material deformation or warping, which is particularly beneficial for intricate components in electronics manufacturing.
5. Compact Design and Energy Efficiency: Fiber lasers are compactly designed and operate with high efficiency. They consume less power compared to other laser types while delivering high-power outputs, contributing to lower operating costs and reduced environmental impact.
6. Low Maintenance: Due to their solid-state design and fewer moving parts, fiber lasers require minimal maintenance. This reduces downtime and ensures consistent performance over extended periods, making them reliable tools for industrial production.
7. Safety and Environmental Benefits: Fiber lasers are enclosed systems that prevent the laser beam from escaping, ensuring operator safety. They also produce minimal waste compared to traditional cutting methods, contributing to cleaner and safer working environments.

Why Is It Beneficial to Use Parts Cut With a Fiber Laser?

Using parts cut with a fiber laser offers several advantages compared to traditional cutting methods:

1. Enhanced Precision and Accuracy: Fiber laser cutting machines can achieve highly precise and accurate cuts, with tolerances as tight as +/- 0.025 mm. This level of precision is crucial for industries like medical device manufacturing and aerospace, where exact specifications are paramount.
2. Smooth and Clean Edges: Fiber laser cutting produces parts with smooth, clean edges, reducing the need for additional finishing processes. This not only saves time but also lowers production costs.
3. Minimal Heat Distortion: Fiber lasers generate minimal heat during the cutting process, which helps maintain the material’s integrity. This is particularly beneficial for applications requiring strong and durable components.
4. Versatility Across Materials: Fiber laser cutting machines can effectively cut a wide variety of materials, expanding design possibilities and manufacturing flexibility for companies.

In summary, utilizing parts cut with fiber lasers ensures superior precision, clean edges, minimal distortion, and the ability to work with diverse materials, making it a preferred choice in advanced manufacturing processes.

How to Maximize the Advantages of Laser Technology？

To fully maximize the benefits of laser technology in manufacturing, it’s essential to carefully consider the following strategies:

1. Selecting the Appropriate Laser Cutting Machine: Manufacturers should evaluate various fiber laser cutting machines available on the market. Factors such as power levels, bed sizes, and additional features should align with the specific requirements of their production processes. Choosing a machine that suits the application needs ensures efficient and effective operation.
2. Optimizing Cutting Parameters: The quality and efficiency of laser cutting heavily depend on parameters such as power settings, cutting speed, and feed rates. It’s crucial to fine-tune these parameters according to the material type and thickness being processed. This optimization enhances precision, minimizes material waste, and improves overall production efficiency.
3. Implementing Regular Maintenance Practices: To maintain peak performance and longevity of laser cutting equipment, adherence to manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedules is vital. This includes tasks such as cleaning optics, checking and replacing consumables like nozzles and lenses, and ensuring proper alignment of components. Regular maintenance minimizes downtime, reduces repair costs, and ensures consistent high-quality output.

How Deep Can Fiber Laser Cutting Machine For Metal Cut

Most customers are interested in understanding the cutting capabilities of a fiber laser machine in relation to its power. The cutting thickness primarily depends on the laser power, with various materials requiring different levels of power for effective cutting. Fiber lasers typically range from 1000 watts to 6000 watts. Below, I will outline four common scenarios to provide a comprehensive overview.

How Thick Can 1000W Laser Cut

The maximum cutting thickness of different kinds of metals for a 1kw fiber laser cutter: 10mm carbon steel, 5mm stainless steel, 3mm aluminum, and 3mm brass.

How Thick Can 2000W Laser Cut

The maximum cutting thickness of different kinds of metals for a 2kw fiber laser cutter: 20mm carbon steel, 8mm stainless steel, 6mm aluminum, and 5mm brass.

Take the 2000w RAS 3015 series fiber CNC machine for example. This 2kw fiber laser cutter has been equipped with various good-quality laser kits, such as auto focus laser head, blade countertop, water chiller, etc. And in the attached video, it adopts high-energy and high-density laser beam to cut various metal materials, such as carbon steel, galvanized sheet, and aluminum plate. The machine cuts fast and produces perfect cuts. At the same time, the slits are very smooth. Therefore, this machine is very popular in the advertising industry, furniture industry, and other fields.

How Thick Can 4000W Laser Cut

The maximum cutting thickness of different kinds of metals for a 3kw fiber laser cutter: 22mm carbon steel, 10mm stainless steel, 8mm aluminum, and 6mm brass.

Take the 4000W Krrass 3015 fiber laser plate cutting machine for instance. This fiber laser cutting machine has the features of professional design, a rigid and durable frame, easy operation, high cutting speed, and precision. And it can cut lines and holes with different diameters from different directions on the metal plates to meet centrifugal and non-centrifugal vertical intersection conditions. In the next video, it is this 4kw fiber laser cutter cut 20mm carbon steel cutting, 6mm brass cutting, 5mm aluminum cutting, and 11mm stainless steel.

How Thick Can 6000W Laser Cut

The maximum cutting thickness of different kinds of metals for a 6kw fiber laser cutter: 25mm carbon steel, 20mm stainless steel, 16mm aluminum, and 12mm brass.

How Much Does A Fiber Laser Cutting Machine For Metal Cost

There are three primary types of laser cutting machines, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages for cutting various materials. The following list outlines which type of machine is best suited for different materials:

1. Laser Cutting Machines for Steel

High-power fiber lasers (0.5-12 kW) are ideal for cutting steel due to their efficient absorption by steel at a wavelength of approximately 1060 nm. In contrast, CO2 lasers, with a wavelength of 10,600 nm, are mostly reflected by steel. Therefore, fiber lasers are the most suitable machines for steel cutting, followed by CO2 lasers. The cost of a fiber laser capable of cutting steel ranges from $30,000 to $600,000, while a CO2 laser with similar capabilities costs between $10,000 and $200,000.

2. Laser Cutting Machines for Metals

Fiber lasers are the best for cutting metals, followed by CO2 lasers. The choice between them depends on factors such as the specific metal, its reflectivity, melting and vaporization temperatures, and the thickness of the workpiece. Metals tend to reflect the longer wavelengths of CO2 lasers but absorb the shorter wavelengths from fiber lasers. The power needed for cutting also depends on the metal’s melting point and thickness, with thicker materials requiring more power. The price of fiber laser cutters ranges from $30,000 to $600,000, whereas CO2 laser systems cost between $10,000 and $200,000.

3. Laser Cutting Machines for Fabrics

For fabrics, CO2 and diode laser cutters are most efficient and cost-effective compared to fiber lasers. Cutting fabrics requires significantly less power than cutting metals. A 40W CO2 or diode laser can easily cut and engrave materials like polyester, cotton, wool, and leather. CO2 laser cutters for fabrics cost between $500 and $4,000, while diode lasers range from $300 to $1,000.

4. Laser Cutting Machines for Paper

CO2 and diode laser cutters are also best for cutting paper. Like fabrics, paper requires very little power to cut and engrave. The power required for cutting paper is even less than that for fabrics and is negligible compared to metal cutting. CO2 laser cutters for paper cost between $500 and $4,000, while diode laser cutters range from $300 to $1,000.

5. Laser Cutting Machines for Wood

The best laser cutters for wood are CO2 and diode lasers. Wood, like fabric and paper, does not require high power to be vaporized by the laser. CO2 laser cutters for wood are priced between $500 and $4,000, while diode lasers typically cost between $300 and $1,000.

6. Laser Cutting Machines for Acrylic

CO2 lasers are the most efficient for cutting acrylic, as acrylics readily absorb the red and infrared wavelengths produced by these lasers. CO2 lasers offer higher cut efficiency and quality. Diode lasers can also cut acrylic, but may require multiple passes depending on the thickness. CO2 laser cutters for acrylic cost between $500 and $4,000, whereas diode lasers are priced from $300 to $1,000.

How To Choose A Fiber Laser Cutting Machine For Metal

When choosing a fiber laser cutter, evaluate your options based on the following parameters:

• Material Type: Decide the type and thickness of the material you will be cutting. This will narrow down the range of available options.
• Cutting Speed: Different machines have different operation speeds. Choose a machine with enough speed to meet your production requirements.
• Automation: If you want an automated system, choose a machine that supports a control system, such as the CNC.
• Safety Standards: The safety standards of the machine are important for the safety of the operator and the workspace.
• Brand: The brand value is important for heavy equipment such as a laser solution. It consists of sensitive parts like optics lenses. Therefore, any quality issues can cause frequent breakdowns and long downtimes.

Why Choose Krrass Fiber Laser Cutting Machines For Metal Cutting

Our top-of-the-line fiber laser cutting machines operate around the clock, adeptly handling all types of designs and intricate structures. At Krrass, we specialize in processing stainless steel, aluminum, copper, brass, carbon steel, and other metal alloys with exceptional precision and accuracy.

We serve a diverse clientele across various industries, meeting all project requirements regardless of your sector. Our cutting process is meticulously controlled, ensuring minimal post-processing is needed for your products and reducing the risk of errors.

For more information, send us a message today.