CNC laser cutting Machine overview

CNC laser cutting Machine overview
We cut a metal sheet through intense laser beams to generate different shape or to fulfill different functions. The total procedure is done through a machine termed as CNC laser Cutting Machine, which runs on a CNC method in CNC machine shop. CNC is computer numerical control and most of the manufacturing machines run on this technology. CNC has brought a revolution in the industry through this application as various machines are based on this method.

Laser cutting

In laser cutting procedure, a beam of high density light energy is focused through a tiny hole of nozzle and when this laser beam strikes the surface of work piece, the material of the work piece is vaporized. CNC laser cutting process has become popular in the industry, owing to its capability of cutting simple to intricate designs accurately. This is the reason why it is used widely for many applications like architectural, aerospace, electronic, medical, automotive, power generation, biomedical, decorative, petrochemical and so on. Several products that are manufactured through plasma cutting procedure includes brackets, gaskets, cams and assorted mechanisms. The website www.emachineshop.com offers the best comprehensive details regarding the CNC laser cutting machine.

Laser cutting offer low cost for prototypes as physical tooling is not required. The heat distortion is very less and is restricted to 10% of material. This proves much effective in comparison to other sheet cutting procedure available in the market. The advantages provided by laser cutting include less of burrs, maintaining close tolerance, and can be performed on large range of materials. Laser cutting procedure works best on materials like stainless steel, carbon, nylon, wood, plywood, aluminum, polythene, derlin, acrylic and galvanized steel. It is difficult to cut metals like aluminium and copper alloys as they reflect laser light as well as absorb and conduct heat. . Unlike other sheet cutter technique, a software programming is also required to run the laser cutting machine and along with it operator check service needs to install to protect from error.

The material produced possesses a smooth edge and edge quality is usually very good for thin materials - around 1/16" or less. This procedure has helped the manufacturing sector immensely as variety of products can be made at the same time. This has helped in the advancement of industry sector. Various CNC machine shops now also use CNC laser cutting machine for their production along with water jet cutting and CNC machines.

How Can I Make the Most of This Cutting Tool?

After you have selected the plasma cutting machine that is right for you, here are some tricks-of-the-trade that will help beginners make the best possible cut.

1. Set-Up Procedures
Before you start, check for the following items:

- A clean compressed air supply, without water or oil. Consumables that wear quickly, or black burn marks on the plate, may indicate that the air is contaminated

- Correct air pressure - this can be checked by looking at the gauges on the unit

- A nozzle and electrode are correctly in place

- A good connection of the work lead to a clean portion of the work

2. Safety Gear
Some basic safety practices should be observed. You should read your instruction manual thoroughly to understand the machine. Wear long sleeves and gloves while cutting since molten metal is generated during the cutting process. Eye protection such as dark goggles or a welding shield is required to protect your eyes from the cutting arc. Typically a darkness shade of #7 to #9 is acceptable. Finally, follow all safety tips and guidelines that are detailed in your instruction manual.

3. Piercing the Work
Many inexperienced users try to pierce the metal by coming straight down, perpendicular (90 degrees) to the work. This results in molten metal being blown back into the torch. A better method is to approach the metal at an angle (60 degrees from horizontal, 30 degrees from vertical) and then rotate the torch to the vertical position. This way, the molten metal is blown away from the torch.

4. Don't Touch the Nozzle to the Work Piece

Do not touch the nozzle to the work when using current levels of 45 amps or more. Doing so will drastically reduce the nozzle life as the cutting will double arc through the nozzle. Double arcing can also occur if the torch is guided by dragging it against a metal template. The result is the same as dragging the nozzle on the work -- prematurely worn nozzles.

5. Beginners Should Use a Drag Cup to Facilitate the Cut

Many systems offer an insulated drag cup, which snaps over the nozzle. This allows the torch to rest on the work piece and dragged along to facilitate a consistent cut.

Technology Gives A Cutting Edge in Cutting Sheet and Plate Metals

Technological advances in the field of manufacturing are what companies use to gain and maintain a cutting edge over their competition. Thirty years ago no one would believe the technologies of James Bond and Star Wars would find their way to the metal fabricator's shop floor; but they have. Two innovative alternatives to burning or oxidizing sheet and plate steel are :

- Laser Cutting of steel
- Plasma Cutting of steel

Laser technology gained much ground in the 1980's through Defense Department research. The Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI) paved the way for today's advanced commercial applications of laser use.

Plasma cutting machine

Laser is a word derived from Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. It involves the use of an electronic optical device. In the case of steel, output from the device, the laser beam, targets an area of the sheet or plate. This laser stream receives its direction from a computer, which pinpoints the area requiring the cut.

Cutting steel with a laser-cutting machine offers an accurate clean cut. Many other materials benefit from this process, such as wood, copper and exotic alloys. Sheet and plate steel receive cuts of close tolerance, much faster than traditional cutting methods. Laser cutting machines are capable of cutting steel up to one inch thick. These machines can perform these accurate cuts repeatedly and with high consistency.

With laser cutting, the cut edges of the steel are clean. This leaves a cut edge with a nice surface finish. This type of cutting allows for less warping of steel; as the zone affected by the heat is small. Laser applications mean less physical contact with the sheet or plate steel. This means less wear on the steel being cut and less chance of a poor quality cut.

Another great advantage of laser cutting of steel is that there is no wear on the laser. This is an advantage over mechanical cutting tools, which undergo stress and wear in the cutting process. If proper maintenance is performed on the optical mirrors used to reflect the laser beam to its target, many months of use are possible before they must be replaced; unlike standard tooling.

Plasma cutting machines utilize a different process. A plasma cutter or torch uses inert gas or compressed air. It uses pressurized nitrogen, argon, or oxygen. Today the use of compressed air is more common.

Miller/AutoArc Quick Cut 4500 Plasma Cutter - 115V-230V

Miller/AutoArc Quick Cut 4500 Plasma Cutter - 115V-230V
List Price : $ 3,111.47

Product Specifications

Product Information
Brand : MilWeld

Sizing and Specifications
Item Weight : 66 Pounds

Product Description
Product Description
- Dual input voltage located in back of unit allows either 115 or 230 VAC input power and provides patented protection in case of incorrect switch position. Unit provides full cutting capacity when powered by most engine-driven welders with 240 VAC auxiliary receptacles.

- Starts without high-frequency so it will not interfere with controls or computers.

- Pilot Arc Controller increases cutting capabilities and speeds, and improves tip life.

- Postflow cooling circuit extends the life of the consumables and torch by cooling them with postflow air after the trigger is released.

- Line voltage compensation (LVC) provides peak performance power under variable conditions (power fluctuations up to +/- 15%) for steady cuts and cleaner ending cuts.

- Gas/air filter/regulator inside the power source provides added protection during transportation. Standard air connection on back panel for easy gas or air hookup.

- Rated Output: 27 A at 90 VDC, 35% Duty CycleCutting Capability:Standoff Cutting Rated: 3/8 in.; Quality: 1/2 in.; Sever: 5/8 in.Drag Cutting: Rated: 5/8 in.; Quality: 3/8 in.; Sever: 1/2 in.Plasma Gas Flow/Pressure: 4.5 CFM (129 L/min.) at 60 PSI (414 kPa)Weight: Net: 49 lb. (22 kg); Ship: 55 lb. (25 kg)Comes complete with: ICE-27C hand-held torch with 20ft. cable; 15ft. heavy-duty work cable with clamp; Extra consumables (3 electrodes, 3 tips and 1 air fitting); 10ft. power cord with 115 VAC, 20 A plug

Plasma cutter with Air compressor

Hobart Airforce 250ci Light Weight Plasma Cutter with Air Compressor #500534

List price : $ 1099.00
Price : $ 769.99 & this item ships for freewith super saver Shipping
You save : $ 329.01 ( 30% )

Technical Details
· New Inverter Design

· Built-in Air Compressor

· Weighs only 27 Pounds

· 115 VAC

· New Ergonomic Torch

Product Description
From the Manufacturer
The Airforce 250ci uses an electrical arc and compressed air to cut steel, Aluminum and other conductive metals. Designed to cut up to 1/4-inch Steel by using a standard household current. A built-in air compressor and lightweight inverter power supply make this Plasma Cutter the most convenient, totally portable cutting system available. The Air force 250ci excels at cutting sheet metal and 1/8 in mild steel. Weight of Machine is 27-pounds.

Product Description

The new AirForce 250CI plasma cutter with built-in air compressor features a new lightweight design that is both lightweight and powerful. Built-in compressor for total portability and low system cost. Cuts mild steel up to 1/4in. thick using standard household current. New HP-25 torch is more comfortable, efficient and economical. U.S.A. Cutting Thickness (in.): Up to 1/4, depending on material, Volts: 115, Amps: 20, Duty Cycle: 35% @ 12 Amps, 110 Volts DC, Pilot Arc: Yes, Plasma Gas Flow/Pressure: Preset with built-in compressor, Clamp Cable Length (ft.): 16, Power Cord (ft.): 7, Cart: No, Dimensions L x W x H (in.): 7 1/2 x 13 x 10

Plasma Cutters can cut though anything

Plasma Cutters can cut though anything

One of the best tools for cutting metal is a plasma cutter. It is effective and convenient to use, and thanks to the latest technology being applied in the area, it is now possible to cut metal with almost laser precision.

A plasma cutter works differently than a conventional welding torch. Rather than using a flame produced from a burning gas in the style of oxy acetylene welding, a plasma cutter uses a jet of inert gas such as compressed air, and then applies a very high voltage charge. The electric charge arcs through the jet of air, and ionizes the gas. The ionized gas reaches extremely high temperature, and becomes what is called plasma.

Plasma cutter

This highly charged and hot temperature jet of plasma is able to melt through metal at the point of contact without having a massive impact on the surrounding material. This makes a plasma cutter a very precise way of cutting metal.

For small jobs in a workshop where metal is being cut in order to make a bodywork patch, or a replacement panel, plasma cutters are the ideal solution. One of the most important aspects of plasma cutters is that they use an inert gas, meaning that you do not have to worry about storing volatile and explosive gases.

In the past, plasma cutters were a fairly imprecise and blunt means of cutting metal thanks to their large "flame", however, thanks to advances in the materials and technology used to manufacture plasma cutters, they are now able to produce a much more focused flame. This means that you not only get a more exact and neater cut, but are able to do it with lower power.

Plasma cutters are available from under $1000. You can get a Firepower 12 amp plasma cutter with its own compressor that uses compressed air to create the plasma torch for $998.75. This tool, which is ideal for small jobs in any work shop, is flexible enough to carry out a range of tasks.

With a basic compressor driven plasma cutter, you get a torch with two settings. The pilot arc of plasma is ideal for burning off paint, while when you turn up the power; the cutter is able to cut through sheets of steel an eighth of an inch thick at a rate of around nine inches per minute.