Extrusion line crosscut saw retrofit
Extrusion line crosscut saw retrofit
(OP)
We extrude acrylic sheet. We have extensive dust collection/control systems for the crosscut saw and acrylic sheet, but we still get some sawdust on the sheet which is unacceptable for some customers. I had this idea about replacing the crosscut saw with a laser cutter and not generating sawdust to begin with. We could remove the saw blade and motor, and use the carriage frame to mount the laser cutter. Any thoughts or help would be appreciated.





RE: Extrusion line crosscut saw retrofit
On a more positive note, laser cutting does produce a very nice edge; much smoother than a saw cut one.
RE: Extrusion line crosscut saw retrofit
RE: Extrusion line crosscut saw retrofit
When cutting acrylic, more power will give more speed. Note that a YAG laser wouldn't be suitable, you need a CO2 laser.
Depending on what country you are in, there may be stringent laws regarding laser safety. If you envision buying a laser generator and mating it to your own transport mechanism, that (in the USA) makes you the builder and responsible for reporting to the FDA and complying with all related regulations.
Depending on the value of a clean sheet and clean edges, the laser might be worth the expense?
regards
Jay
Jay Maechtlen
RE: Extrusion line crosscut saw retrofit
RE: Extrusion line crosscut saw retrofit
Sounds like an application for water jet cutting. The material removed from the cut in entrained in the water and easy to dispose of.
Timelord