Fiber-laser-cut parts (right) offer more speed and much greater precision than EDM-produced parts for medical applications.
Images courtesy Miyachi Unitek Corp.
over five times faster at 1615 ipm (41 m/min). In addition, the hourly operating costs of a fiber machine are less. This can be a real game changer if you are pro- cessing thin material. Integrating lasers and material handling is also
improving. Lasers are becoming more stable and able to run untended. Process monitoring can verify the cutting process and stop the laser from making scrap parts. Furthermore, there are many methods
of automating the setup so untended operation is more practical.
In addition to adding more power and features
to machines, many manufacturers are also look- ing for ways to reduce the cost and complexity of their lasers. Some lasers today have improvements in productivity, reliability and operating costs at a price that is lower than just a few years ago. Some companies also offer machines with less power, slower drive systems and fewer options for custom- ers with budget constraints.
Laser Marking
Laser marking or engraving remains one of the largest laser application segments in terms of units sold and revenue. Almost all items manufactured today need to be marked for traceability or brand- ing and the process is used across a wide range of industries: medical devices, automotive, aerospace, defense, electronics, semiconductor, industrial tools, fi rearms and jewelry.
Rofi n says its SmartCleave FI technology is the most advanced, all-laser cutting process for glass, sapphire, ceramics and other brittle materials.
Photo courtesy ROFIN SINAR Laser GMbH
Lasers used for marking can range in the wave- length spectrum from UV (355 nm) to far infrared (10,600 nm), depending on the material and appli- cation requirements. The majority of lasers used for marking in manufacturing fall in the infrared 1 mi- cron (1064 nm) or the far infrared (10,600 nm). The choice is mainly material driven. One micron in- frared (1064-nm) lasers, either dPss (diode-pumped
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