Factors Affecting Fiber Laser Cutting–Doris

In this article, we will continue exploring more factors that play an important role in the fiber  laser cutting machining process.

fiber laser cutting
fiber laser cutting machine

Keep in mind the below factors affect the Fiber Laser Cutting process

Laser Focus Optics: Every single component of the laser focus optics is of crucial importance to the function of the laser. Properly-adjusted and clean optics allow the laser beam to focus with higher precision on a specific point on the surface that we are cutting or engraving. Said optics consist either from a zinc-selenide lens or a parabolic mirror.

laser cutting procesFocal Length: As a general rule, the focal length of the optics ranges from 12.7 mm for thin surfaces to around 19 mm for thicker surfaces.

In the first case, the thinner sheet calls for a higher-density energy which consumes the same power nonetheless. Furthermore, we experience a higher speed and acceleration.

When we have to deal with thicker surfaces on the other hand, we utilize the 19 mm optics which makes the process much more cost-effective and efficient.

Focal Position: The very same laser cutting process is a result of the overheating of the tube/path that drives the laser beam. This means that the exact location of the focal position must be carefully set in order to get the best possible results.

It is on that focal position that the maximum power of the laser will be concentrated and cut or engrave the material at hand.

fiber laser cutting
fiber laser cutting machine

When we are dealing with carbon steel, then we tend to follow this rule of thumb:

The focus position should be exactly on the cutting surface when the material is up to 6 mm thick. (f=0).
For a high-pressure steel or aluminium cut, we’ll have to set the focus position within the material we wish to cut, at about ⅔ of its thickness
So, the focus position changes, depending on the thickness and the type of the material we need to cut.

Beam Centering Through The Nozzles: The focus lens must be adjusted in a position exactly in the middle of the output nozzles. In order for the laser cutting process to be as effective as possible, the beam must not deviate more than +0.05 mm from the very center of the nozzle output.

If the deviation is higher than +0.05 mm, then the cuts won’t be smooth and clean, instead they will be rough.

fiber laser cutting
fiber laser cutting

Cutting Speed: The cutting speed is dependant on the material and the thickness of the surface to be but. If we use a higher or slower speed that the advised, we’ll experience rough cuts with poor results.

Acceleration: The fiber laser cutting acceleration is another factor that affects the laser cutting process tremendously. Fortunately, all the modern laser machines adjust the acceleration automatically without our manual input.

fiber laser cutting
fiber laser cutting

Attn: Doris Xing 

Email: xintian103@xtlaser.com

Skype: xtlaser103

Whatsapp: 008615990992073