Ultra-High-Speed Cutting of Ferrous and Nonferrous Plates

LVD Strippit (Akron, NY) now offers their Electra FL 3015 fiber laser cutting machine in a high power 10 kW configuration for ultra-high speed cutting to achieve premium cutting results at the highest possible output when processing ferrous and nonferrous materials in plate thicknesses up to 1.25 in (30 mm). This machine is designed to perform reliably at high cutting speeds. The primary challenge associated with ultra-high speed cutting is having a machine frame that can handle the high accelerations needed to reap the benefits of fiber laser cutting. Electra FL features a welded steel monoframe construction that provides exceptional stiffness, weighs 33,000 lb and can maintain an acceleration of 2G during cutting without sacrificing part accuracy. To achieve the full potential of high-dynamic acceleration, a lightweight yet rigid cast aluminum gantry is driven by a linear motor and two synchronized motors featuring an integrated gearbox with the lowest possible inertia. When cutting a part nest with many moves, Electra delivers a distinct productivity advantage because of its ‘dynamics first’ design.

Increasingly, users that need to paint their steel parts after cutting/bending insist on using nitrogen to avoid oxidation on the cutting edge. The 10 kW Electra can nitrogen-cut 5/16 in (8 mm) steel three times as fast as a 6 kW fiber laser. High speed cutting coupled with new nozzle technology that reduces nitrogen consumption by up to 30 percent results in a tremendous reduction in the cost per part. The machine is equipped with the latest fiber laser cutting head that incorporates zoom focus, a technology that adjusts the focal diameter of the beam and enables independent setting of focus diameter and magnification. Zoom focus optimizes the kerf width for any given thickness of material and provides the ability to focus the beam at different plate-to-nozzle distances. When piercing thicker plate, the Electra uses a higher standoff during the initial portion of the pierce to minimize the effect of spatter and extend consumables life. With zoom focus technology, users can pierce 0.79 in (20 mm) steel in less than two seconds.

An optional infra-red camera referencing system ensures fast and accurate, automatic and non-contact sheet referencing from pre-punched holes or two adjacent plate edges. It guarantees scratch-free referencing and geometric accuracy. Electra is equipped with the latest generation of Touch-L control. Its 19 in touch screen features an icon-driven interface to guide the operator, ensuring the machine is easy to use and operate. Set ups are fast and uncomplicated.

LVD Strippit, 12975 Clarence Center Road, Akron, NY 14001-1371, 716-542-4511, scolle@strippit.com, www.lvdgroup.com.