Ideal Laser Cutting System for Contract Manufacturers

This 5-axis 3D laser cutting system achieves up to 30 percent productivity increase for automotive, appliance and aerospace part production.

Automotive part manufacturers striving for the shortest cycle times and highest quality cutting and trimming of hot-formed steel parts now have a solution with the latest RAPIDO Evoluzione 2 five-axis laser system (Photos 1, 2 & 3) from PRIMA North America (Chicopee, MA).

With 175 m/min linear speed and 1.4 g acceleration, the Evoluzione 2 five-axis laser system produces high quality cut edges free from oxide that are weld and paint ready. Using this system, a typical automotive part made of hot-formed steel such as a B-pillar has a cycle time of less than 50 seconds.

“These systems are designed to operate non-stop in a 24/7 manufacturing environment to handle very large quantities of parts,” reports Terry L. VanderWert, president of PRIMA North America. “With this system, we’ve provided a complete turnkey package including load/unload stations integrated with the CNC control to enable continuous part laser processing. Our automotive customers report achieving up to 30 percent productivity increases using these new Evoluzione 2 systems compared to the previous models.”

The Evoluzione 2 has a 160 in x 60 in x 30 in (4080 mm x 1530 mm x 765 mm) work volume, with sleek, compact and ergonomically designed machine architecture. The innovative cabin design has enhanced ergonomics and accessibility to the work piece, including its ceiling for increased safety and optimal fume and dust evacuation. The workpiece is fully accessible, allowing the operator to move comfortably around parts during programming, loading and unloading operations.

Standard cabin designs for these systems include integrated dual shuttle tables (Photo 4), split cabin configuration and a 3 m integrated turntable configuration that meets CDRH Class I and CE requirements. These systems are available “turn key” with all fixture operations controlled via the CNC. Available laser sources include up to 5 kW CO2 and up to 3 kW fiber laser (Photo 4).

Additional system features include:

• Latest generation PRIMACH – 30L control for high performances, advanced control algorithms, HMI with web technology and 17-inch touch screen and trackball.
• Heavy duty, integrated synthetic granite structure with low shop floor space requirements.
• PERFECT TOOL, an automated system for precision laser beam to cutting nozzle alignment.
• Flying optics with the workpiece remaining fixed throughout the work process.
• Safe Impact Protection System (SIPS) for full detachment of the head in the event of accidental impact, preventing damage to the machine, parts and equipment while ensuring immediate restarting of production.
• Adaptive C-adaptive axis with capacitive sensor (±10 mm stroke; 4 g acceleration).

The Evoluzione 2 system also has application in appliance and aerospace manufacturing and is being adopted by an increasing number of contract manufacturers serving these industries. PRIMA North America is an ISO 9001:2008 certified, global supplier of lasers and laser manufacturing systems used in a broad range of applications including aerospace, automotive, military, medical, and general manufacturing. For over 30 years, the company has been a leading supplier to industry for both 2D and 3D laser systems and processes. www.prima-na.com