Laser cutting technology has come a long way in the past few years. The machines became approachable and sleek in design, with vastly improved precision and speed.
When it comes to metal cutting technology, there are two main options: tube laser cutting machines and fiber laser cutting machines.
While both technologies have their strengths, it is worth mentioning here that fiber laser cutting is a newer technology favored by many new age industries. If you wish to have laser equipment in your setup, extensive research on both technologies must be done to determine which of them is right for your needs and requirements.
However, in this article, we will discuss some of the main differences between tube laser cutting machines and fiber laser cutting machines. Our goal is to simplify things for you and make your job easier.
Working Mode
Tube laser cutting machines and fiber laser cutting machines are two different types of laser cutting systems used for specific applications. The main difference between them lies in the laser source they use and the working principle involved. Here's a breakdown of their working modes:
Tube Laser Cutting Machine
A tube laser cutting machine is specifically designed for cutting and profiling tubular or cylindrical materials, such as pipes, tubes, and structural sections. These machines use a laser source, typically a CO2 laser, to generate a high-energy beam. The laser beam is then directed through an optical system, which focuses it onto the material being cut.
The tube is usually held in position by a chuck or a rotary system that allows the tube to rotate during cutting. As the tube rotates, the laser beam moves along the length of the tube, making precise cuts according to the programmed design. The combination of rotation and laser movement enables the machine to cut complex shapes and profiles on the tube surface.
Fiber Laser Cutting Machine
A fiber laser cutting machine, on the other hand, is a versatile cutting system for cutting a variety of flat materials such as metals (e.g. steel, aluminum, brass) and composite materials. Fiber laser cutting machines use a different type of laser source called a fiber laser.
Fiber lasers generate laser beams by activating rare earth elements within fiber optic cables. The laser beam is then delivered to the cutting head via a fiber optic cable. In the cutting head, the laser beam is focused by a lens and directed at the material surface.
Unlike tube laser cutting machines, fiber laser cutting machines usually operate on a fixed table. The laser beam moves along the X and Y axes according to the programmed cutting path, making precise cuts in stationary material. Some fiber laser cutting machines also offer additional features, such as automatic material handling systems, which can load and unload sheets for continuous cutting.
In conclusion, the main difference between a tube laser cutting machine and a fiber laser cutting machine is their intended application and the type of material they are designed to cut. Tube laser cutting machines are designed for cutting and shaping cylindrical materials, while fiber laser cutting machines are versatile systems for cutting various flat materials.
The automation of tube laser cutting machines versus fiber laser cutting machine
While there are similarities between tube laser cutting machines and fiber laser cutting machines, each machine also has its own unique features and functions.
Tube laser cutting machines are mainly used for cutting cylindrical or tapered tubes, pipes and profiles. These machines are designed to simplify the process of cutting these materials by automating the process. They are very efficient and ensure a smooth and fast cutting process.
Fiber laser cutting machines, on the other hand, are great for cutting flat materials and tubing. They are capable of handling a wide variety of materials such as steel, aluminium, copper, brass and more. They use fiber optic technology to cut material with incredible precision, delivering smooth, clean edges in the process.
In conclusion, both tube laser cutting machines and fiber laser cutting machines are excellent choices for automating the cutting process. The key is to determine which machine best meets your specific needs and business requirements.
The structure of tube laser cutting machines versus fiber laser cutting machine
Both types of machines, tube laser cutters and fiber laser cutters, utilize advanced laser technology to cut metal, but the way each machine is constructed can have a significant impact on its performance and functionality.
As the name suggests, tube laser cutting machines are designed for cutting and processing tubes and other cylindrical materials. These machines feature a specialized chuck system that holds the tube securely in place while laser cutting sections of material.
In contrast, fiber laser cutting machines are more versatile in design and offer a wider range of functions. These machines transmit high-power laser beams through fiber optic cables, which are then focused onto the material being cut. This allows for a more precise and efficient cutting process and can be used on metals and composite materials.
If you work primarily with cylindrical materials and want a dedicated machine that can handle them with ease, a tube laser cutter may be a better choice. However, if you need a versatile machine that can handle a wider variety of materials and cut with greater precision, a fiber laser cutting machine may be a better investment.
Cutting effect of tube laser cutting machines versus fiber laser cutting machine
While both machines, tube laser cutting and fiber laser cutting, use the energy of a laser to precisely cut material, there are some key differences to consider.
Tube laser cutting machines offer a cutting method ideal for making precise cuts in metal tubing. That's because tube laser cutters can cut many different materials, creating clean, precise cuts that are as efficient as they are beautiful. Plus, they are capable of cutting complex shapes and angles with ease.
Fiber lasers use short wavelength light and the property of the material being cut to absorb better, and are more effective in the case of non-conductive metals such as brass and copper. Plus, the small focal spot helps cut metal efficiently and easily.
Fiber laser equipment is highly efficient when cutting thinner materials. In comparison to tube laser equipment, a 1.5kW fiber laser and a 3kW tube laser have the same cutting speed for a 6mm thick plate. However, fiber lasers consume 86 percent less energy compared to tube lasers, making them a more viable option overall.
While fiber laser machines come with a higher price tag than traditional laser cutters, they may be the more practical investment for applications involving similar power and materials. In general, fiber laser devices provide greater feasibility when compared to their counterparts.
Conclusion
In short, pipe laser cutting machines and fiber laser cutting machines have their own advantages and disadvantages. Tube laser cutting machines offer the precision and accuracy of cutting tubing, while fiber laser cutting machines offer faster cutting speeds and greater versatility. It is important to carefully consider and evaluate the requirements of the project before deciding on which machine to use.
