FEATURE: MAINTENANCE
hazard if not managed properly. Be sure to check for the accumulation of dust and debris on the impeller on the extractor fan unit, as any build-up can impede its function, unless a fume filter is fitted.’
Check and check again Other checks that can be undertaken include ensuring a laser system’s air-assist compressor is operating correctly. ‘Check for obstruction in any filtration elements that may be present, and also inspect the delivery hose from the compressor to the cutting head, to make sure there are no obstructions, so that a suitable supply of air is reaching the nozzle,’ said Jacobs. ‘Reduced airflow to the nozzle can increase the risk of a flame breaking out on some materials while the machine is cutting. In addition, lubricate runners and the rise and fall of the bed using light oil to ensure these run smoothly, if not, friction can cause wear on moving components.’
Other visual inspections and monitoring
“Some materials like acrylic, MDF and woods release more fumes, residue and potentially flammable oils, which can affect components”
results, said Jacobs, can help to identify potential issues with performance before the machine becomes damaged. ‘Testing beam quality can be as simple as comparing cuts from today, with cuts from pieces when the machine was new,’ he said. ‘Poor cuts may indicate bad alignment, a weakening laser tube or dirty optics.’
Keep the optics clean If optics do become dirty, this can reduce the beam’s strength. ‘You can visually
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A fibre laser machine cutting a steel pipe
inspect the optics,’ said Jacobs, ‘however you may already notice poor results such as blurry lines, not cutting as deep etc. If the optics aren’t cleaned, dirt can combust or burn into the surface of the optic, permanently damaging the lens or mirror.’ He advises cleaning optics every 10 to 40 hours of work, depending on what types of material are being processed. ‘It’s extremely important to clean these carefully, to avoid damaging them. You can use IPA solution or acetone, together with some gentle cotton buds for this.’ There is always the chance that things
can go wrong or break-down. Oliver Meier, executive partner at German repair and maintenance specialist, Laser on Demand, concurs about the importance of maintaining optics. ‘Based on more than 20 years’ experience in industrial laser applications, one of the most common causes of breakdown is a damage of the optical fibre – either caused by dirt or back reflection,’ he said. ‘While diode
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