Laser system configuration: material requirements as a guideline
How do you determine the optimal laser system configuration? The type of laser, the desired wavelength and the right intensity determine the optimal laser system for your organization or institution. But you often don't know that at all when purchasing. Fortunately, you can do something about that. In this article, we discuss the influence of the material on your choice for a laser system and how you can think about it. Are you stuck? One of our specialists will be happy to help you.
Laser system configuration
Laser can be used to process a wide variety of materials. From plastics, paper and thin foils to wood, glass, foam and even metal. Almost any material can be processed with the right configuration. But how do you ensure that your laser system can handle your materials and requirements, now and in the future?
There are 3 aspects of the material that determine which configuration best suits your company or institution, these are:
- Type of material
- Size and shape material
- Material processing
Type of material
It is important to think about the materials you want to use now or in the future. How material reacts to the laser energy is determined by the interplay of; wavelength of the laser, the intensity of the laser (wattage) and the absorptive properties of a material.
In practice there are 3 main wavelengths for laser systems , 10.6 and 9.3 microns produced by CO 2 lasers and the 1.06 micron wavelength of fiber lasers. And each type of laser is available in different strengths. At the same time, each material has different absorption properties, different wavelength and power combinations have a different effect on the same material. That is why it is important to consider which materials you want to use so that you can determine the best lasers and intensity for your laser system .
Laser 2000 helps companies with the selection, configuration, installation and commissioning of laser systems . Together we determine your wishes and we ensure that you can get started quickly. Contact us at vanrossum@laser2000.nl or call +31-297-266191.
Size and shape material
What are the dimensions of the material you want to process? The laser system must be able to handle the dimensions of your material, parts or product. Much material is supplied as sheet or rolls that can be cut to size relatively easily. But if you want to process 3-dimensional objects that are, for example, spherical, cylindrical or square, this has clear consequences for your laser system . For example, the system must be able to set the depth of the Z-axis or a rotary have fixtures .
The ULTRA R9000 laser system from Universal offers the largest material handling area of the ULTRA series with an area of 1,219 mm x 610 mm and can be equipped with 2 different lasers (two CO2 lasers or a CO2 and a fiber laser) with a power of up to 150 watts.
The ULTRA X6000 laser system from the same manufacturer can even handle three lasers simultaneously; two CO 2 and one fiber laser can hang together in the system. Then you have all three wavelengths available 10.6 micron, 9.3 micron and 1.06 micron.
Material processing
Laser material processing uses the energy of a laser to change the shape or appearance of the material. Laser systems can therefore not only be used for cutting, but also, for example, for engraving products and parts. With a laser system you get a versatile tool to quickly change or produce a design without changeover times.
A system that will mainly be used for series production must meet different requirements than if it is mainly used for the production of prototypes. Knowing exactly what you want to achieve with your material determines which components are needed to achieve the best result. For example, we consider the type of lens (focal length), which material support is needed (cutting table, rotary ) and the role of pollutants or residual products (air filters, gas support).
A laser system is often purchased to fulfill one task, but it soon turns out that more is possible. It is then a shame if the system is not optimally suited for that application. We therefore often advise our customers to opt for a system with somewhat broader configuration options.
Buy laser system
The purchase of a laser system is a complex process for many companies and institutions. They not only have to weigh the costs and benefits, but also know exactly which configuration suits them best. Where should you start then? Our laser systems specialist , Ruben van Rossum, is happy to make this process easier. He knows exactly which system best suits your needs and fits in the environment where it needs to be placed. Contact him at vanrossum@laser2000.nl or call +31-297-266191.
