Laser Cutting Accuracy
Laser Cutting Accuracy
(OP)
What is the general accuracy expected from laser cutting metals from 1/8 inch to 1 inch in thickness. If anyone has specs from particular machines I would be greatfull as I am in the process of looking for one to buy.
Thanks
Thanks





RE: Laser Cutting Accuracy
I have worked on applications were cutting a failry complex part with a lot of corners and curves, moving 125lbs around, and ding the process in 30 seconds and holding 0.0005 on the ball screw stages. Some don't need that some need better.
I have worked on some where we have a 1 um spot size and using air bearing stages where accuracy is down 0.2 um on the system.
Basically, we can get it as accurate as you want, it comes down to how much $ you want to spend.
Give us an idea of what you want to cut (shape), how fast, how heavy...etc. and maybe others reading this can help.
I work with several companies that build Laser systems out of my stages & controls.
Cameron Anderson - Sales & Applications Engineer
Aerotech, Inc. - www.aerotech.com
"Dedicated to the Science of Motion"
RE: Laser Cutting Accuracy
"Process control" includes material composition and surface finish!
Accuracy also depends on working area required- easier to build a small ultra-precise machine than a large one.
Are you looking for a standard unit like an Amada or Trumph, or some kind of custom?
Jay Maechtlen
RE: Laser Cutting Accuracy
Thanks
RE: Laser Cutting Accuracy
One other thing in laser processing- heat. The blank heats up during the cutting process, and it expands. depending on geometry, that can affect accuracy and reletive positioning of holes and other features. Even if the program is "perfect", this can affect the final result. Further, if you change process parameters (more power and cut faster, etc.) it may change the amount of heat absorbed and hence the amount of expansion. So the part accuracy can change even if the machine is perfect!
cheers
Jay
Jay Maechtlen
RE: Laser Cutting Accuracy
Major suppliers of sheet metal cutters include:
Trumpf - 860-255-6055
Mazak - 847-252-4500
Amada - 714-739-2111
NTC - 248-478-4104
Schuler - 734-207-7200
Whitney - 815-964-6771
Cincinnati - 513-367-7100
Alabama Laser - 256-358-9055
RE: Laser Cutting Accuracy
.025 MM on Holes and cutouts at a Feedrate of 1500-2000 MM a min.
and .05 MM on Trim at 2000-6000 MM a min.
RE: Laser Cutting Accuracy
Of course, the laser nozzle and beam can be positioned very accurately, but see previous comments regarding accuracy of thicker materials.
regards
Jay (formerly of Amada)
Jay Maechtlen