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Fiber lasers are among the latest advancements in laser technology that have a significant impact on the manufacturing industry. They are commonly used to engrave, mark, and perform various tasks. In this blog, we will discuss why having fiber lasers in the CNC machine shop will improve efficiency and will cover topics like speed and safety.
First, let’s discuss the brief difference between Fiber Lasers and CO2 Lasers which are often used lasers in the machine shop.
CO2 laser:
Fiber laser:
1. Speed
Fiber lasers can engrave and mark at high speeds due to their high repetition rate and pulse. With this process more engravings can be produced in less time, resulting in faster turnaround times for orders this leads to increased productivity and output.
For example, These parts are made out of A2 Steel. If we were to engrave 30 pieces using our CNC machine, it would take the program 1 minute and 35 seconds. However, when we engraved them using the fiber laser, it only took 30 seconds per piece.
2. Small footprint
Since fibre lasers are made to be efficient and small, they can fit more of them into a given area than other kinds of lasers.
As a result, they’re easy to set up, making them a great choice for machine shops and saving floor space.
3. Safety
Fiber lasers are safer to use than traditional lasers. They produce less heat, reducing the risk of material damage. In addition, they have a lower risk of causing eye damage or skin burns.
4. Lower operating cost
The cost of maintenance and overhead can be decreased by using fiber lasers as they have robust parts, require minimal consumables and require less maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the limitations of fiber laser?
While fiber lasers have many advantages, they do have some limitations. For example, fiber lasers are not as effective for cutting thick materials or materials that are highly reflective.
What are the safety concerns of fiber laser?
It is important to wear the proper protective eyewear when operating the machine as exposure to the laser beam can cause eye damage.
What materials can a 50W fiber laser engrave?
A fibre laser can engrave different types of materials, including plastics, brass, copper, stainless steel, and aluminum.
In conclusion, fiber lasers offer many benefits for machine shops. They are highly precise and accurate, have a faster processing speed, lower operating costs, are versatile, and safer to use. These advantages make them an essential tool for any machine shop looking to improve product quality, increase production times, and reduce operating costs. If you are looking to enhance your machine shop’s capabilities, consider investing in a fiber laser.
Manufacturing complex parts using CNC machining comes with a unique set of challenges that can be overwhelming for machinists.
These challenges can lead to frustration and lower-quality results, which can negatively impact the final product.
Precision, efficiency, and innovation are just a few elements of the manufacturing industry, and CNC machining has been a game-changer in achieving those goals.
