5 Advantages of Fiber Laser Cutting In Metal Manufacturing

Author: Laserworx Manufacturing

If you are working in the field of metal fabrication, then you are likely to know the answer to the question, "What are the uses of a fiber laser cutting machine?". However, for a beginner in laser cutting, below is a discussion of all the advantages of fiber laser cutting in metal manufacturing.

What is a fiber laser cutter and how does it work?

A fiber laser cutter, as is evident from the name as well, is a widely used laser cutting system that employs optical fiber for the controlled production of photons. This unique technology is capable of generating laser beams in a very controlled manner so that marking, cutting, texturing, and drilling of metal sheets can be done in a very precise manner.

The fiber laser was invented by Elias Snitzer in 1963. But, it becomes commercially available in the late 1900s. It works by employing optical fiber (as gain media) doped with rare-earth metals like erbium, ytterbium, thulium, praseodymium, dysprosium, and holmium. The use of optical fiber to create, amplify, and convey photons made fiber laser one of the most efficient and flexible laser cutters ever made.

Now that we know the working of a fiber laser cutter, let's discuss the advantages and disadvantages of fiber laser cutting in metal manufacturing.

What are the advantages of fiber laser cutting?

Works on a range of metals

The reason why fiber laser cutter is so popular is because of its ability to work on a range of metals. You can use it to cut all types of metals like mild steel, copper, stainless steel, electro-galvanized steel, titanium, brass, and a variety of other metals. It can also be used to cut metals with high reflective properties like aluminum. In addition to metal cutting, fiber laser cutters and be used to cut wood, paper, and plastic. However, cutting a piece of glass with the help of a fiber laser cutter is an extremely difficult task.

It is highly energy efficient

Another major benefit associated with the use of a fiber laser cutter is energy efficiency. For instance, a 2kW fiber laser can generate a five times more powerful laser beam as compared to a 4kW CO2 laser cutter. The reason behind low energy consumption by a fiber laser is that it doesn't use any kinds of laser gases to create a laser beam. Simply put, the use of a fiber laser cutter is essentially helping you to save energy and money.

It is extremely precise

As far as cutting accuracy is concerned in laser cutting, fiber laser cutter tops the list. According to a study conducted by Robert Soltysiak (UTP University of Science and Technology) and his team, the wavelength of a laser beam generated by a fiber laser is approximately ten times shorter than a CO2 laser. A shorter wavelength means a higher cutting accuracy. Simply put, fiber lasers are about ten times more accurate as compared to CO2 lasers. Listed below are some of the crucial factors that can influence the cutting accuracy of a fiber laser cutter;

  • Workpiece type
  • The power level of the laser
  • Accuracy of the workbench

Minimal heat damage

One more advantage associated with the use of a fiber laser cutter is minimal or no heat damage to the work piece. Leaser-induced thermal fatigue can adversely affect the structural integrity of the work piece. The more powerful the laser is, the lesser the thermal damage to the work piece. Therefore, for minimal heat damage, only use fiber laser cutters.

It requires low maintenance

Another advantage of employing a fiber laser cutter is that it doesn't require the same general maintenance as a conventional CO2 laser cutter. A fiber laser cutter requires minimal maintenance. Listed below are a few things that you can do to ensure the upkeep of your fiber laser cutter;

  • Make sure its components are clean
  • Make sure its temperature is not rising beyond a certain level
  • Check the sensitive components and replace the defective ones
  • Ensure the lubrication of racks, rails, and other sensitive components

In conclusion

Fiber laser cutters are known for their extraordinary spatial beam quality, competent heat dissipation system, energy efficiency, and high accuracy. However, it needs regular maintenance. And, if you’re noticing signs of deformities, call a technician so that the damaged part can be repaired or replaced on time.