A tube laser is a relatively new machine in the fabrication industry. Laser cutting and laser technology for flat sheet and plate metal has been around for a long time and is well-adopted by nearly all serious metal fabrication shops. It is only in recent years that laser cutting technology has been adapted to cut tube and shape lengths.
The machine uses a laser beam to cut metal tubes and other extruded shapes into desired parts. It works by generating a high-powered laser beam which is focused onto the surface of a metal tube. The laser beam melts, vaporizes or burns away the material, creating a clean, precise cut. The cutting process is guided by a computer-controlled motion system that synchronizes both the laser beam and the tube movement to create the desired shape. The system typically includes a laser generator, a resonator that amplifies the laser beam and a cutting head that houses the laser beam and the motion system.
Tube lasers, as one might guess by the name, are great at laser cutting tube. This includes all shapes and sizes of tube, including round, square, rectangular and even oval shapes.
Most customers, however, are unaware that tube lasers also cut a bunch of other shapes, including angle, channel, beams and even custom extrusions.
Tube lasers act very similar to flat sheet lasers when it comes to the types of materials they can cut. CO2 lasers will cut traditional metals that include steel, stainless steel, aluminum and galvanized materials. Tube lasers that use fiber technology will cut all those listed above, plus they can cut copper and brass materials. The main difference between a CO2 tube laser and a fiber tube laser is the cutting technology. Reflectivity has always been an issue for CO2 laser cutting, which is a problem when cutting metals like copper and brass.
Like most pieces of equipment, there are generally size ranges for machines. Some tube lasers are equipped to handle tube shapes as large as 16.00–18.00 inches. Other tube lasers will only handle shapes up to 2.00 inches. Most fabrication shops opt for something in the middle, which will handle tube shapes from approximately 1.00–8.00 inches.
Bigger shaped machines move much slower than smaller shaped machines. The tradeoff is flexibility versus speed.
Some flat lasers do have add-on capacity which allows them to handle small tube shapes. These types of machines often require a fair amount of setup time to transition between flat sheets and tube shapes. In addition, nearly all these machines are limited by the fact that they only cut two-dimensionally. Many shops will claim that they have tube laser cutting capacity, but the reality is that they are very limited in what they can cut.
Dedicated tube lasers, on the other hand, are designed to solely cut long lengths of material. Most tube lasers can handle a full twenty, or twenty-four-foot, length that is common, for example, in something like 2.0 x2.0 x.125 square tubing. In fact, dedicated tube lasers can take bundles of tube and load the lengths on sequentially. The big benefit here is efficiency. Hand loading tube, like one must do when using a flat laser, is easily overcome, as stack-after-stack of tube moves through the machine untouched by human hands until it processes out the back end of the machine.
Another big difference is the piece sizes that can be cut. Flat sheet lasers can only cut maximum lengths of tube that will fit inside the laser bed, generally something less than ten feet. Tube lasers, on the other hand, can usually cut lengths of tube or angle that are up to twenty feet long, even longer in many cases.
Again, back to efficiency, tube lasers cut through part nests inside twenty-foot lengths just like flat lasers cut through part nests on 4×10 flat sheets. That is something that flat sheet lasers cannot do when cutting tube.
Finally, the last big difference between flat sheet lasers and tube laser is 3D cutting. Nearly all dedicated tube lasers can cut on four to five axis. This allows tube lasers to cut odd shapes and sizes like angle or channel or beam. It also allows tube lasers to put chamfers on parts which will often make the parts weld-ready without the need to grind chamfers after saw cutting. Flat sheet lasers, as mentioned before, only cut on two axis, X and Y.
Cutting flat sheet and cutting shape lengths are very different animals. Tube, angle, channel—all these shape types come with much more variability than one would find on a flat sheet or plate. Many are surprised to learn that shape materials often come with bows and even twists.
This does create some challenges when trying to tube laser to very tight tolerances. Most machines can generally maintain +/- .010. Tube laser cutting machines will often use touch-probe technology to reach down and touch the tube before cutting. This technology will create very accurate parts but does slow down the cutting process. Flat laser cutting can often boast +/- .005 tolerances but tube laser cutting will often cap out at +/- .010.
All things considered, .010 is still a very tight tolerance particularly when compared to traditional methods of saw cutting and drilling.
In addition to twists or bends in structural shapes, tube lasers can struggle as they confront the variability between edge radii. Using, again, 2.0 x2.0 x.125 tube as an example—some manufacturers roll tube with .125-edge radii and other manufacturers have .187-edge radii. That small, .062 difference, becomes a big deal when the programmer is trying to make a detailed cut around the tube.
Many times, this can be managed by ordering batches of tube sizes from the same manufactures for consistency.
Another issue is that shape material is often less clean than traditional sheet metals. Rust, debris, dirt and lacquer finish on material can make laser cutting difficult, or at best, slow. Metal suppliers have begun to correct this situation, similar to what took plates on sheet and plate metal, as they realize how important clean shape materials are for the tube laser cutting processing.
More and more, engineers are starting to wake up to the possibilities of tube laser cutting. Shapes and sizes that used to be expensive, or even impossible, to manufacture are becoming possible and much easier. Cutting slots in tube, for example, would have historically required a machining process. Now, cutting slots in tube and other shapes is a piece of cake!
Designing parts with tube laser capabilities in mind gives engineer a wider range of possible outcomes.
More than engineering, however, is the notion of downstream manufacturing. Traditional tube and shape cutting processes are typically done with a saw. Saw cutting is slow and quite inaccurate. Slow cutting is one problem, but inaccuracy creates trouble for subsequent processes downstream in the manufacturing process.
Take, again, our piece of 2.0 x 2.0 x.125 square tube—consider fabricating a simple 3-by-6-foot rectangular frame. In the past, a typical job shop using a saw would miter cut the tube into four, forty-five-degree angled parts. Moving, measuring and setting up the saw to cut parts on forty-five-degree angles is time consuming and, usually, quite inaccurate.
When the parts are cut inaccurately, it creates problems for the welders downstream. Now, the welders are being forced to match parts together that will have variability. Some gaps are wider than other gaps, resulting in more fit-up time. Extra weld on one edge versus another edge pulls the frame out of square. Experienced welders have become good at managing these variations but all of this takes time, time, time.
Tube laser cutting is so accurate that there are no inconsistent gaps or sloppy fits. The resulting benefit is that parts are cut much faster and welded much faster.
Granted, this is a very simple example, but the more complicated the part, the more relevant the solution.
Tube lasers are impacting manufacturing on both the design front and the fabrication efficiency front.
Understanding that outside radii matter is an important part to modeling and creating drawings for tube laser work. Most shops can modify models to match the tube they generally use but engineers often make the mistake of drawing shapes with hard, outside ninety-degree corners.
Some types of aluminum tube and thin wall tube do have tight outside corners, but most tube, channel, angle, etc. have some kind of radiused edge, whether inside or outside, or both.
This, of course, depends on shop capacity, but tube laser cutting is fast—extremely fast! Parts can be turned around in very little time because most tube laser machines can auto-load tube in large bundles and after that it is a simple cut and stack.
This is a very simple process for us at AMF—some simple parts can simply be uploaded into our auto-quoting module online. You can get pricing without even talking to an estimator. More complicated parts can be sent into our estimating team and we can get you pricing in very short order.
Like anything, pricing is generally driven by both complexity and tolerances. High tolerances are often not necessary but become part of standard engineering title blocks. Take a look at your parts and see if you have holes or cut-outs that are called out at unnecessarily tight tolerances. Simple changes like that can make an enormous difference in the part pricing quoted.
Many people are not aware of tube laser technology—they don’t know what they don’t know, so-to-speak. Learning more about tube laser technology is very helpful.
Here’s a couple of things to remember:
Many of our job shop brothers are afraid to outsource tube laser work to a competing shop. We recognize that this is a concern, but again, consider how much faster you will be able to weld your parts together. This translates into direct price savings, which will allow you to, if necessary, provide more competitive pricing, which should result in more work. In other words, it should be providing you with more work, not less.
A Guide to Choosing the Right Laser Tube Cutting Machine
Welcome to "A Guide to Finding the Perfect Laser Tube Cutting Machine for Your Needs." In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the essential factors to consider when choosing a laser tube cutting machine that aligns with your specific requirements. Whether you are a small business owner, a manufacturer, or an industrial professional, this guide will provide you with valuable insights and practical tips to help you make an informed decision. Let's dive in and explore the world of laser tube cutting machines together.
I. Importance of Choosing the Right Laser Tube Cutting Machine
Choosing the right cnc laser tube cutter is crucial for businesses that rely on precision cutting of tubes and pipes. It can significantly impact production efficiency, quality, and profitability. This guide aims to help you make an informed decision when selecting a laser tube cutting machine that aligns with your specific needs.
Precision and accuracy: the suitable machine will cut tubes with high precision and accuracy, ensuring that the desired shapes and dimensions are consistently produced. This is especially in areas where precision is critical, such as automotive, aerospace, and construction.
Productivity and efficiency: A well-chosen laser tube cutting machine will include advanced features and technologies that improve efficiency and productivity. Rapid cutting speed, automated functions, and optimization software that minimizes material waste and maximizes throughput are all part of this.
Cost-effectiveness: While the initial investment cost is significant, it is also necessary to assess the machine's long-term cost-effectiveness. Look for tube laser cutting machine that require less maintenance, are energy efficient, and provide a good return on investment in terms of higher output and reduced material waste.
Reliability and durability: Investing in a reliable and long-lasting machine provides continuous operation and reduces downtime. Look for a cnc laser tube cutter with a solid build, high-quality components, and a respected manufacturer that offers outstanding after-sales service.
Safety features: Because laser tube cutting machines use high-powered lasers and moving parts, safety is a key priority. To ensure operator safety and compliance with industry requirements, the ideal machine will contain complete safety features such as protective enclosures and safety sensors.
Versatility and flexibility: Specific cutting skills are required by various industries and applications. The correct machine will provide a variety of cutting alternatives, such as various tube sizes, lengths, and materials. This flexibility allows for greater adaptability in serving the different needs of customers.
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II. Understanding Your Business Needs
Assessing your production requirements
It is important to assess your production needs, such as the quantity of tubes to be cut, the cutting speed and thickness, and the complexity of the types and designs. This helps in determining the tube laser cutter’s required capabilities and characteristics.
Identifying the types of materials you work with
Different laser tube cutter are made to work with specific materials, such as carbon steel, aluminum, stainless steel, etc. Consider the materials you always work with and make sure the machine you chose can effectively cut them.
Determining your budget constraints
Determine a budget for your tube laser cutting machine purchase. Consider the original purchase price, but also the recurring expenses of maintenance, consumables, and any other accessories or software that may be necessary. It is critical to create a balance between your budget and the machine's desired features and capabilities.
III. Key Considerations for CNC Laser Tube Cutter
Laser power and cutting capacity
A laser tube cutter laser power determines its capacity to cut through various materials and thicknesses. Select a machine with a laser power that meets your manufacturing needs. The machine's cutting capability should also be considered to ensure that it can manage the size of your tubes.
Tube diameter and length capabilities
Consider the tube laser cutting machine's ability to handle a variety of tube sizes and lengths. Choose a machine that can accommodate the size of tubes you frequently work with. Some machines can work with a variety of diameters and lengths, while others are more specialized.
Automation and software integration
To boost efficiency and productivity, look for a cnc laser tube cutter that includes automation and software integration. Loading and unloading systems that are automated, as well as software that optimizes cutting pathways and saves material waste, can greatly improve your cutting processes.
Maintenance and support services
Select a cnc laser tube cutter machine from a renowned brand that provides dependable maintenance and support. This includes training, technical assistance, and the availability of spare parts. Regular maintenance and fast technical support can help to reduce downtime and keep your system running at top performance.
IV. Evaluating Machine Features and Specifications
A. Cutting speed and accuracy
Consider the cnc laser tube cutter machine's ability to cut materials fast and precisely. Look for machines that have fast cutting speeds and precise control systems.
B. Cutting quality and edge finish
Examine the machine's cut quality, particularly the smoothness of the edges and the absence of burrs or roughness. tube laser cutting machine that can continuously make clean, precise cuts is your best choice.
C. Tube positioning and clamping mechanisms
Tube positioning and clamping mechanisms: Think about how the tube laser cutter machine can strongly position and clamp tubes or other workpieces throughout the cutting process. To ensure accurate and stable cutting, look for machines with dependable and adaptable positioning and clamping systems.
D. Safety features and compliance
Features of safety and compliance: Examine the machine's safety features, such as emergency stop buttons, safety interlocks, and protective enclosures. Ascertain that the cnc laser tube cutter complies with all relevant safety standards and regulations in order to protect operators and meet workplace safety requirements.
V. Researching Tube Laser Cutting Machine Brands
Exploring Reputable Manufacturers and Suppliers
Start by looking into and investigating reputable laser tube cutting machine manufacturers and suppliers. Look for organizations with a solid track record, significant industry expertise, and excellent feedback from customers. Consider their reputation, experience, and the variety of machines they provide. Oree Laser is a reputable laser technology equipment company with international certifications such as ISO, RoHS, CE, FDA, and others. These certificates demonstrate that our machines satisfy recognized quality, safety, and sustainability standards. Furthermore, Oree Laser's vast patent portfolio, which includes over 30 utility model patents and design patents, highlights our commitment to innovation and the development of cutting-edge laser cutting machine technology. Consider Oree Laser as a suitable brand for your laser tube cutting machine to ensure our compliance to international standards and commitment to ongoing improvement and innovation.
Reading Customer Reviews and Testimonials
Customer reviews and testimonies can provide useful information about the performance, reliability, and customer satisfaction of various laser tube cutters. Oree Laser has garnered numerous customer reviews, Many customers praise the performance and reliability of Oree Laser laser pipe cutting machines, especially the laser power and cutting capabilities of our tube laser cutting machine. They have found that these machines are capable of efficiently cutting through various materials and thicknesses, delivering precise and clean cuts. The high cutting speed and accuracy have been particularly appreciated by customers, as it allows for increased productivity and reduced production time. The tube diameter and length capabilities of Oree Laser machines have also received excellent praise. Customers have discovered that these machines can accommodate a wide range of tube sizes, meeting their unique production requirements. Customers have praised the flexibility of tube diameter and length possibilities for allowing them to work on a variety of projects without constraints.
Requesting Machine Demonstrations and Trials
Request machine demonstrations or trials from the company whenever possible. This allows you to observe the machine in action, evaluate its cutting quality and speed, and rate its ease of use. It's also a chance to ask questions and clear up any confusion about the machine's capabilities. It is highly suggested that you take advantage of Oree Laser's demonstration or trial choices before making a final decision. This enables you to observe the equipment in action and assess its effectiveness in relation to your individual demands and requirements.You can test the machine's cutting speed, precision, quality, and safety features during the demonstration or trial. You can also assess its usability, maintenance needs, and compatibility with your existing manufacturing processes.The experienced team at Oree Laser can provide guidance and assistance during the demonstration or trial process, addressing any questions you may have and assisting you in determining if the machine is suitable for you.
Considering Warranties and After-sales Support
Choose for laser tube cutting machines with warranties and extensive after-sales service. A solid warranty will safeguard you against any production flaws or malfunctions. Consider the brand's availability of spare parts, technical support, and training services. Customers have been satisfied with Oree Laser's maintenance and support services. The company has received praises for its immediate and dependable technical help, which ensures little downtime and quick resolution of any issues. Customers have also praised the availability of replacement parts and extensive training services, which add to the machines' flawless operation and longevity.
VI. Making an Informed Decision
Creating a Shortlist of Potential Laser Tube Cutting Machines
Start by gather information, researching different models of laser tube cutting machines, consider factors such as cutting capacity, laser power, automation features, and customer reviews. You can find out more about Oree Laser's tube laser cutters and browse machines lineup by clicking "Oree tube laser cutting machine". You will learn more about our cnc laser tube cutters, including specifications, features, and application samples.
Professional Solutions
Oree Laser's sales team has extensive expertise assisting customers in evaluating their individual demands and selecting the best laser tube cutting machine for their business. They may provide recommendations on which machine model and specifications will best meet your needs by reviewing your requirements, such as the sorts of materials you will be cutting, the thicknesses involved, and the required production output. Furthermore, our sales team can advise you about the different features and choices available for their equipment, such as automation capabilities and cutting precision. They can recommend the machine that will deliver the highest return on investment and help you meet your production targets by understanding your individual demands and goals.
Finalizing Your Purchase and Installation Plan
Finalize your purchase by completing any applicable agreements and arranging for the cnc laser tube cutter machine's delivery and installation. Coordination with the sales is essential to ensuring a smooth installation process, as is scheduling any necessary training courses for your operators. Oree Laser understands the value of a smooth installation procedure and thorough after-sales service in ensuring client satisfaction. To meet the different demands of our customers, we provide both online and offline installation alternatives.
VII. Conclusion
To take the next step and choose the most suitable tube laser cutting machine for your business, please contact Oree Laser's sales team. We have the knowledge to assess your individual requirements and desired output. You can make an informed decision and find the machine that best meets your needs with our assistance.
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