Kern’s laser systems can be equipped with innovative metal cutting technology. The metal cutting option allows for accurate cutting of sheet metal such as stainless steel, mild steel, aluminum, copper and brass.
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An Automatic Focusing Height Follower, developed by Kern Laser Systems, is one of the key elements for optimal metal cutting. A cutting nozzle is controlled by a capacitance sensor and z-axis motor. The gap between the metal being cut and the cutting nozzle is adjusted until the desired beam focus is obtained. During the cutting process, the height follower tracks the metal surface and adjust the nozzle position maintaining a constant focus point.
A protective cover lens is installed within the lens assembly. These lenses are a low cost, sacrificial optic which help to protect the focusing lenses from reflected laser energy, dust and debris. These cover lenses are referred to as a K-Lens on our CO2 machines and F-Lens on our fiber systems.
The metal cutting table is constructed of durable steel grid work which minimizes the surface contact with the bottom of the sheet metal. A CAD cut file for the individual slats is saved on the computer system allowing for operators to cut replacement slats when needed.
Both fiber and CO2 lasers can effectively cut metal. To learn more about their differences, please review this blog post: What is the difference between CO2 and fiber lasers?
High powered fiber lasers (1-3kW) and CO2 lasers ranging from 150-650 watts are exceptionally well-suited for cutting mild steel, a task where they excel due to a blend of power and precision. At this power range, the laser is capable of producing a concentrated beam that can easily melt and cut through mild steel, which is known for its good balance of strength and ductility. The versatility of these lasers allows for a wide range of thicknesses to be cut, with the higher end of the power spectrum handling thicker steel with ease. This range also ensures a cleaner cut with minimal kerf and smoother edges, which is crucial in precision applications. Furthermore, the efficiency and speed of these lasers at these power levels make them cost-effective and time-efficient, especially in industrial settings where both quality and quantity are essential. Their ability to maintain a consistent and controlled beam also reduces material wastage and enhances the overall quality of the cut, making them an ideal choice for a variety of mild steel cutting applications. Manufacturing of electrical panel enclosures is a classic application our laser systems are used for.
Starting with Kern’s CO2 lasers of 150 to 650 watts, mild steel can be cut at varying thicknesses up to .250″. Fiber lasers are available with up to 3kW’s of power and will process mild steel as thick as 1/2″.
Laser cutting aluminum requires a powerful and precise approach, and typically, a 300W CO2 laser is considered the minimum power level sold for effectively cutting this metal. However, a majority of our aluminum processing customers are running 500W or greater lasers.
Many aluminum nameplate manufacturers are running 500W laser systems to cut thin gauge aluminum tags and labels with great success. CO2 lasers are generally more effective than fiber lasers for cutting aluminum labels with an adhesive backing because of their longer wavelength, which is less absorbed by the metal and more effectively interacts with the adhesive layer. This allows the CO2 laser to cleanly cut through both the aluminum and the adhesive without excessive damage to the material. Moreover, the CO2 laser’s beam quality and precise control enable it to delicately handle the layered structure of these labels, ensuring a cleaner edge and reduced risk of burning or warping the aluminum or adhesive.
Fiber lasers are also a great solution for cutting aluminum due to their shorter wavelength, which allows for a more focused and intense beam, leading to cleaner and more precise cuts. Lasers from 1kW to 3kW are available on the FiberCELL platform.
Marking aluminum with a Kern laser system is also possible. A laser marking spray is used to leave a dark, durable mark on the surface of the metal. Cermark and Thermark are two laser marking sprays used on metal.
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