Introduction
This article aims to provide entrepreneurs with a practical guide to choosing their first fiber laser cutting machine. In today’s highly competitive business environment, it is essential for entrepreneurs to have an efficient and precise fiber laser cutting machine. It can not only improve production efficiency and reduce costs, but also improve product quality and enhance the competitiveness of enterprises.
For entrepreneurs, choosing their first fiber laser cutting machine may be a challenging decision. This article will conduct an in-depth analysis from multiple aspects to help entrepreneurs understand the characteristics and advantages of fiber laser cutting machines and how to choose according to their own needs. Through detailed introductions and practical suggestions, readers can be more wise in choosing fiber laser cutting machines and avoid unnecessary risks and losses.
First, we will introduce the working principle and technical characteristics of fiber laser cutting machines to give readers a preliminary understanding of them. Secondly, we will analyze the advantages and disadvantages of different types of fiber laser cutting machines and how to choose according to the production needs and budget of the enterprise. In addition, we will also provide some precautions and suggestions for purchasing fiber laser cutting machines to help readers make the right decisions during the purchase process.
In short, this article will provide entrepreneurs with a comprehensive and practical guide to selecting fiber laser cutting machines, helping them take a solid step on the road to entrepreneurship.
Key: Clarifying your own needs
Before purchasing their first fiber laser cutting machine, entrepreneurs must first determine their own requirements. Only by properly knowing the main parameters, such as the company’s production scope, the material, and thickness of the processing material, can we accurately calculate the model, format, and number of the necessary equipment.
First and foremost, the company’s production scope will have a direct impact on the type of fiber laser cutting machine used. If the company’s main business is sheet metal processing, it may require a device that can efficiently cut metal sheets; if it produces handicrafts, it may have higher requirements for cutting precision and detail processing. For example, some companies that specialise in precision metal component processing may require a fiber laser cutting equipment with high power and precision to suit the processing requirements of complex geometries and small-sized parts.
The processing material’s composition is also vital to consider. The power and cutting settings of the laser cutting machine vary depending on the material. For example, when cutting stainless steel, more power and a specialised auxiliary gas are normally necessary to assure cutting quality. According to market research, cutting a 3mm-thick stainless steel sheet typically requires at least 1000W of laser power. Carbon steel materials, due to their high laser absorption rate, require relatively low power to achieve good cutting results.
It is also important to consider the thickness of the treated material. To cut thicker materials effectively, more powerful laser cutting devices are required. Taking Han’s Super Laser as an example, its fiber laser cutting equipment has a maximum cutting thickness of 5 mm for stainless steel and 10 mm for carbon steel. If the organisation frequently processes thicker materials, it should choose equipment with more power and better performance.
Entrepreneurs can use the production scope, material, and thickness of the processed materials to select the type, format, and number of equipment. For small businesses or start-ups, a large format and too many devices may be unnecessary. You can select certain compact fiber laser cutting machines, such as those with a working format of 1500×3000 mm, which can meet basic production requirements while lowering expenses. To boost production efficiency, large-scale businesses with a high volume of business should explore using larger formats and several devices.
In conclusion, understanding your personal requirements is critical when selecting the first fiber laser cutting equipment. Only when entrepreneurs completely comprehend the enterprise’s production characteristics and needs can they make sound decisions and establish a firm foundation for its future growth.
The selection of crucial points demands careful attention
1. Cutting performance and accuracy
One of the most important metrics for fiber laser cutting machines is their cutting performance and precision. The high-performance machine can quickly cut high-quality workpieces with various thicknesses and complex shapes. For example, Han’s Yueming Laser’s products are well-known for their superior cutting performance and ability to process a wide range of metal materials. Han’s Yueming laser cutting machine can cut stainless steel plates with a thickness of 5mm at a speed of 10 meters per minute, producing clean and burr-free edges with an accuracy of ±0.05mm. This enables companies to improve production efficiency while maintaining product quality.
2. Stability and Durability
The stability and durability of the equipment have a direct impact on its service life and maintenance expenses. Han’s Yueming Laser provides the high dependability and long-term stability of each piece of equipment through rigorous quality control and innovative manufacturing methods. A high-quality fiber laser cutting machine can often last more than ten years. During this time, equipment failures are rare and maintenance is infrequent, lowering the company’s total cost of ownership. For example, Han’s Yueming laser cutting machine has a high-strength bed structure and high-quality gearbox components, allowing it to sustain long-term high-intensity operation while reducing production shutdown losses due to equipment failure.
3. Level of automation and ease of operation
Modern manufacturing has progressively high automation requirements. Choosing a fibre laser cutting machine that is simple to use and has a high level of automation can considerably boost production efficiency. Han’s Yueming Laser is a clever operating system with an intuitive interface and simple operation. At the same time, it has an automatic loading and unloading system as well as remote monitoring functions, making manual operation and management much easier. For a small startup, adopting a fully automated fibre laser cutting equipment can reduce labour costs by roughly 30% while increasing production efficiency by about 50%. Entrepreneurs benefit from this since they can adapt to market demand faster and improve their company’s competitiveness while lowering costs.
4. After-sales and technical assistance
High-quality after-sales service and technical support are critical to ensuring that equipment operates properly. Han’s Yueming Laser has built a global after-sales service network to provide timely technical assistance and professional training services. When equipment malfunctions, a skilled after-sales crew can arrive on time to undertake repairs, allowing users to fix problems quickly and maximise equipment utilisation. It is understood that Han’s Yueming Laser’s after-sales service response time is often within 24 hours, reducing the impact of equipment failure on production.
5. Brand reputation and market feedback
A brand’s reputation and market feedback might represent the product’s actual use and consumer pleasure. With many years of industry experience and great product quality, Han’s Yueming Laser has established a strong market reputation and a large user base. When selecting fibre laser cutting machines, businesses can learn about the reputation and market feedback of various brands by reading user reviews and consulting industry experts. For example, in several industry forums, consumers generally rate Han’s Yueming laser cutting machines highly, believing that they provide consistent performance, great cutting accuracy, and excellent after-sales service. This gives enterprises a valuable reference when selecting equipment.
Power choices should be appropriate
Choose the right power based on the hardness of the product material to avoid the expense and processing effects of using too much or too little power. For example, Pendstar Laser suggests that 3000W of power is adequate for common metal materials.
The power selection of the fiber laser cutting machine is an important component that is directly related to the entrepreneur’s cost and processing efficiency. When selecting the power, you must consider the hardness, thickness, and cutting needs of the processed material.
In the market, 6000W and above are generally referred to as high power, 3000W-6000W as medium power, and power less than 3000W as low power. Based on current market demand, laser cutting machines with a power of 6000W or less can meet the cutting needs of the majority of customers, and their usage is also reasonably high.
Low-power equipment is more than sufficient for cutting thinner metal materials. For example, when cutting 3mm stainless steel plates using 3000W power equipment for air cutting, not only is the cutting speed rapid, but the cutting quality is very fine, resulting in cost savings while maintaining precision. According to statistics, utilising a 3000W power unit to cut a 3mm stainless steel plate results in a cutting speed of around 5 meters per minute and a smooth, burr-free edge.
If the processed plates comprise both thick and thin plates, and the production capacity need is great, a high-power laser cutting machine within your budget is also a good option. Because, by properly controlling the cutting speed and changing the auxiliary gas, the high-power laser cutting machine can very well manage the cutting quality when cutting thin plates.
varied sectors place varied demands on the power of fiber laser cutting devices. Customers in the hardware, kitchen and bathroom industries are best served by small fibre laser cutting machines; customers in the advertising, sheet metal and chassis industries prefer medium-power fibre laser cutting machines; and customers in the aviation, aerospace, rail transportation, automobile and other industries require high-power fibre laser cutting machines.
When selecting power, cost concerns must be considered. The greater the power of the equipment, the higher the cost. At the same time, high-power equipment has comparatively significant operational costs, such as power and gas usage. Using 500W and 2000W as examples, 6 kWh of energy is consumed per hour, and the electricity fee is around 6 yuan per hour; oxygen cylinders cost 15 yuan every bottle, which is used in about 1 hour; nitrogen cylinders cost 320 yuan per tank, which is used in about 12-16 hours.
In short, while selecting the power of fiber laser cutting machines, entrepreneurs should examine aspects such as cost and processing effect based on their specific needs, and select the suitable power to maximise the enterprise’s benefits.
Inspection and proofreading are indispensable
When selecting a fibre laser cutting equipment, it is critical to undertake field inspections and proofing with leading manufacturers. This not only allows entrepreneurs to intuitively understand the actual cutting effect of the equipment, but it also allows them to gain a thorough understanding of the manufacturer’s trading methods, training content, and delivery issues, among other things, to ensure that the equipment chosen truly meets the needs of the enterprise.
- Manufacturer’s production scale and process flow: First, during the field inspection, entrepreneurs can see the manufacturer’s production scale and process flow. A powerful firm typically has advanced production equipment and standardised production methods to assure equipment quality and stability. For example, some major fibre laser cutting machine manufacturers employ completely automated production lines, and all parts processing and assembly of the entire machine are rigorously tested to guarantee that each device satisfies high quality standards.
- Proofing effect: Second, proofing is an important stage in determining the real cutting effect of the equipment. Entrepreneurs can bring processing materials typically used in their own businesses and allow manufacturers to do on-site cutting demos. You can determine whether the equipment fits your requirements by looking at indications like speed, accuracy, and surface quality during the cutting process. For example, when cutting thin plate materials, ensure that the cutting edge is clean and burr-free, and that the cutting speed meets production requirements. When cutting thick plate materials, pay attention to the verticality of the cut and the size of the heat-affected zone.
- Price, payment method, delivery: In order to comprehend the transaction process, entrepreneurs must clarify with the manufacturer the price, payment method, delivery date, and other relevant facts about the equipment. Different manufacturers may use different transaction techniques, and entrepreneurs can select the most appropriate plan based on their financial status and production plans. Some manufacturers, for example, offer installment payments, which are an excellent option for businesses on a tight budget. However, it should be emphasised that installment payments may entail interest expenses, so businesses should weigh the costs and benefits carefully.
- Training content is also a critical assessment point. To be as efficient as possible, a sophisticated fibre laser cutting machine requires expert operators and maintenance workers. Manufacturers should provide complete training services that cover equipment operation, maintenance skills, troubleshooting, and other topics. Entrepreneurs can learn about the manufacturer’s training techniques, training time, and training teachers, among other things, to guarantee that their staff learn how to operate the equipment promptly.
- Delivery issues include equipment shipping, installation, and commissioning. Entrepreneurs should discuss with the manufacturer the time, location, and manner of delivery, as well as any potential challenges and remedies during the delivery process. For example, some manufacturers offer on-site installation and commissioning services to guarantee that the equipment works properly. At the same time, entrepreneurs can learn about the manufacturer’s after-sales service commitments after the equipment is delivered, such as warranty periods, maintenance response times, and so on.
In summary, field inquiry and proofing allow entrepreneurs to completely understand the actual performance of the fibre laser cutting machine and the manufacturer’s service level, creating a solid foundation for selecting the first equipment. During the inspection process, pay close attention to details and interact with the manufacturer to ensure that you select the fibre laser cutting machine that best meets your company’s requirements.
Pay attention to the main components
The fiber laser cutting machine’s main components, such as the laser tube, cutting head, servo motor, guide rail, cooling system, and so on, have a direct impact on cutting speed and precision. High-quality components should be chosen.
1. Laser Source
The laser source is an essential component of the fiber laser cutting machine. It functions similarly to the equipment’s core. Its quality is directly related to the equipment’s service life and cutting performance. Imported laser source are generally more expensive, but the quality is quite high, and the service life can last up to ten years. However, for most business owners, domestic laser source may be a more cost-effective option. Domestic laser source typically have a life of roughly 1500 hours, and if used intensively, they must be replaced after around one year. Under typical conditions, several domestic high-quality laser source can emit lasers consistently and ensure cutting accuracy. When selecting a laser source , consider its power stability, beam quality, and heat dissipation capabilities.
2. Fibre laser cutting machine’s cutting head
It includes a nozzle, focussing lens, and tracking system. A high-quality cutting head can provide precise laser beam focussing while also improving cutting accuracy and speed. For example, certain modern cutting heads can intelligently adapt the height and focus length based on different materials and thicknesses. When selecting a cutting head, examine the material, precision, longevity, and compatibility with the equipment. At the same time, frequent maintenance and care of the cutting head, such as cleaning the nozzle and inspecting the focussing lens, can help extend its service life.
3. Servo motor
The servo motor supplies operating power to the fibre laser cutting equipment while also influencing cutting accuracy. High-quality servo motors can significantly improve positioning accuracy, speed, and repeatability. Huichuan, Yaskawa, Panasonic, and Delta are some of the most common servo motor brands available. The servo motor primarily relies on pulses for positioning. When exposed to a pulse current, it rotates the appropriate angle of the pulse, resulting in precise control. When selecting a servo motor, aspects such as brand, performance specifications, and compatibility with the control system should be examined.
4. Guide Rail
The guide rail is a crucial component of the fibre laser cutting machine, as it has a direct impact on the equipment’s operational stability and precision. High-quality guide rails can help keep the equipment stable and smooth throughout operation, reducing vibration and mistakes. Some fibre laser cutting machines, for example, can perform high-precision cutting operations thanks to their high-precision linear guides. When picking guides, consider factors such as material, accuracy level, load-bearing capability, and wear resistance.
5. Refrigeration System
The cooling system is critical to the fibre laser cutting machine’s proper operation. When in use, the laser produces a lot of heat, which the refrigeration system must remove in order for the machinery to run at a constant temperature. The refrigeration system must include safety alarm prompt features such as ultra-high temperature detection, flow protection, and water level protection. For example, some modern refrigeration systems may cool the laser quickly and efficiently, extending its life. When choosing a refrigerated system, evaluate its refrigeration efficiency, stability, and compatibility with the equipment.
The after-sales service must be reliable
After-sales service is critical for entrepreneurs considering fibre laser cutting machines. It is unavoidable that various difficulties will arise when using the equipment, and high-quality after-sales service can repair these problems in a timely and effective manner to ensure that the equipment continues to function normally.
Response time
This is a key metric for measuring the quality of after-sales service. In general, the more manufacturers that use a grid-based station layout, the faster the response. For example, some large fibre laser cutting machine manufacturers have established multiple service locations across the country, allowing personnel to rapidly go to the site after receiving the repair report, with a response time of only a few hours. In contrast, some small manufacturers may experience extended response times due to an imperfect service network, causing significant inconvenience to users.
Problem-solving timeliness
The more technical the after-sales service team is, the faster they can diagnose the problem and deliver effective remedies. Professional technicians, for example, can swiftly identify the source of a problem via remote diagnosis and other methods, and then lead users through basic maintenance procedures. If the problem is more complicated, the technician will hurry to the location as soon as possible to resolve it so that the equipment may return to regular operation.
Economic cost of service
The greater the warranty period, the lower the economic cost. However, it should be noted that the warranty period for the entire computer does not match the warranty period for the accessories. When purchasing equipment, entrepreneurs should grasp the manufacturer’s warranty policy, which includes the warranty length, scope, and post-warranty service fees. In addition, the cost of replacing spare parts must be addressed. Prices and allocation capacities for spare parts vary amongst manufacturers. Entrepreneurs can grasp the market environment before purchasing equipment, allowing them to make informed decisions when replacing spare components.
After-sales services include sharing daily maintenance expertise, addressing difficult and complex cutting problems, operator training support, and software upgrades and updates. Manufacturers can give extensive after-sales service to customers by organising training sessions on a regular basis, distributing technical materials and videos, and so on. For example, some manufacturers will provide complimentary operator training to assist users in mastering the equipment’s operation and maintenance practices. Simultaneously, manufacturers will continue to enhance the equipment’s software to increase its performance and stability.
To summarise, when selecting a fibre laser cutting machine, entrepreneurs must consider after-sales support. Choosing a trusted manufacturer helps alleviate concerns about equipment use and secure the enterprise’s seamless output.
Summary
Entrepreneurs must consider many factors when buying their first fibre laser cutting machine. Clarifying their needs is crucial. One must evaluate the company’s manufacturing scope, the processed materials’ material and thickness, and the right model, format, and quantity. The selection procedure should consider cutting performance and accuracy, stability and durability, automation and convenience of operation, after-sales service and technical support, brand reputation, and market feedback. At the same time, inspect and proof powerful manufacturers on-site and check fundamental components including laser tubes, cutting heads, servo motors, guide rails, and refrigeration systems. Power choices should be right. To avoid cost and processing issues, choose the right power based on product material hardness and cutting needs. Also important is after-sales service. Choose a manufacturer that answers quickly, handles problems swiftly, has affordable prices, and offers extensive services.
In conclusion, picking a fibre laser cutting machine for your company is difficult, but entrepreneurs may make smart choices if they study every link seriously and understand the market and product. Visit our mall for laser cutting machine product information. To ease your entrepreneurial journey, we offer professional consulting and high-quality services.