Documenti di Didattica
Documenti di Professioni
Documenti di Cultura
Operating Instructions
Product identification
These operating instructions apply to the product:
Document identification
Please specify the document identification and issue date when reorder-
ing.
Other documents
The complete set of documentation contains the following documents:
Operating Instructions
Installation Guide
Spare parts catalog
Diagrams
Supplier documentation
Machine documentation
Machine logbook
Target group
These operating instructions are intended for the owner and operator of
the machine and for maintenance and repair personnel.
Storage
The operating instructions must always be freely accessible to the speci-
fied target group.
Copyright
Dissemination or duplication of this document, or exploitation or commu-
nication of its content without the express permission of the author is pro-
hibited. Contravention will result in damages. All rights reserved.
Argentina Australia
BEHRENDT MAQUINARIAS S.A. LMC LASER SERVICE PTY. LTD
Lima 355 - Piso 8 Factory 2
AR-1073 Buenos Aires 1 Frias Road, Moorabbin
Tel.: +54 11 5031 5312 AU-3198 Victoria
Fax: +54 11 5031 5301 Tel.: +61 3 9555 5525
Email: info@bmaq.com.ar Fax: +61 3 9555 2970
Email: sales@lmclaser.com.au
Austria Brazil
BYSTRONIC AUSTRIA GmbH BYSTRONIC DO BRASIL Ltda.
Wienerstrasse 131 Rua Arapongas, 285
AT-4020 Linz BR-83040 200 São Cristóvão
Tel.: +43 732 341 377 0 São José dos Pinhais - Paraná
Fax: +43 732 341 377 11 Tel.: +55 41 3398 2000
Email: office@bystronic.at Fax: +55 41 3398 1789
Email: bystronic@bystronic.com.br
China China
BYSTRONIC CO., LTD BYSTRONIC MACHINERY CO. LTD.
Rijing Road 88, Level 1 Part A Economic Development Zone
Waigaoqiao FTZ Pudong Ninghe County
CN-200131 Shanghai CN-301500 Tianjin, PRC
Tel.: +86 21 5868 0480 Tel.: +86 22 6958 9988
Fax: +86 21 5868 0481 Fax: +86 22 6958 8168
Email: byadmin@sh163.net Email: sales@afmtianjin.com
France Germany
BYSTRONIC FRANCE SA BYSTRONIC DEUTSCHLAND GmbH
Parc Technipolis Mollenbachstrasse 33-35
3 avenue du canada D-71229 Leonberg
F-91940 Les Ulis Tel.: +49 (0)7152 6090 0
Tel.: +33 1 6941 9984 Fax: +49 (0)7152 6090 11
Fax: +33 1 6941 9951 Email: info@bystronic.de
Email: info@bystronic.fr
Greece Hungary
ADECA SA AUTOREL Kft.
Technical and Commercial Company Attila ut 131 / III. 12.
Ave. Alexandras 56 HU-1012 Budapest
GR-11473 Athens Tel.: +36 1 212 7270
Tel.: +302 10 822 8503 Fax: +36 1 212 7271
Fax: +302 10 821 6746 Email: sales@autorel.hu
Email: adeca@otenet.gr
Israel Italy
ALON Laser Services Ltd. BYSTRONIC ITALIA SRL
23 Robinzon St. Via del Lavoro 30
IL-49560 Petach-Tikva I-20030 Bovisio Masciago / MI
Tel.: +972 3 931 0127 Tel.: +39 0362 59931
Fax: +972 3 931 0128 Fax: +39 0362 5941 35
Email: alon_ch@zahav.net.il Email: services.it@bystronic.com
Mexico Poland
Bystronic Mexico S.A. de C.V. BYSTRONIC POLSKA Sp. z o.o.
Lago Onega No. 424, Col. Granada Al. Krakowska 38
MX-11520 Mexiko, D.F. Janki
Tel: + 52 (0)5 525 815 147 PL-05090 Raszyn
Fax: +52 (0)5 525 815 156 Tel.: + 48 22 331 37 70
Email: info@bystronicusa.com Fax: + 48 22 331 37 71
Sweden Switzerland
BYSTRONIC SCANDINAVIA AB BYSTRONIC SALES AG
Östra Bangatan 18 Industriestrasse 21
SE-19560 Arlandastad CH-3362 Niederönz
Tel.: +46 (0)8 5944 1550 Tel.: +41 (0)62 956 37 83
Fax: +46 (0)8 5944 1555 Fax: +41 (0)62 956 33 81
Email: info@bystronic.se Email: info.sales@bystronic.com
Table of contents
1 Product description
Table of contents
2 Safety regulations
Table of contents
Table of contents
Table of contents
4 Control elements
Table of contents
5 Operation
Table of contents
Table of contents
Table of contents
6 Maintenance
Table of contents
7 Repair
Table of contents
Table of contents
8 Disposal
Table of contents
9 Cutting technology
Table of contents
Table of contents
9.7.8 Engraving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 75
9.7.8.1 General points . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 75
9.7.8.2 Assessment of engraving quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 75
9.7.9 Machining with process macros . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 76
9.7.9.1 Process macro 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 76
9.7.9.2 Example with process macro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 77
9.7.10 Microjoints. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 78
9.8 Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 81
9.8.1 Material properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 81
9.8.2 Alloy components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 81
9.8.3 Microstructure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 82
9.8.4 Sheet surface finish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 82
9.8.4.1 Unwanted surface finishes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 82
9.8.4.2 Preferred surface finishes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 82
9.8.5 Surface treatment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 83
9.8.5.1 Oiled surfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 83
9.8.6 Beam reflection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 84
9.8.7 Thermal conductivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 84
9.8.8 Heat affected zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 85
9.9 Cut evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 86
9.9.1 Cutting with oxygen (O2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 86
9.9.1.1 Structural steel St 37-2, 4 mm thick . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 86
9.9.2 Cutting with nitrogen (N2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 88
9.9.2.1 Structural steel, hot galvanized, 2 mm thick . . . . . . 9 – 88
9.9.2.2 Rust and acid-resistant steel 1.4301, 6 mm thick . . 9 – 89
9.9.2.3 Aluminum AlMg3, 3 mm thick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 90
9.9.3 Piercing with oxygen (O2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 92
9.9.3.1 Structural steel St 37-2, 6 mm thick . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 92
9.9.4 Piercing with nitrogen (N2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 93
9.9.4.1 Rust and acid-resistant steel 1.4301, 2 mm thick . . 9 – 93
9.9.5 Quality of the cut edge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 94
9.9.5.1 Structural steel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 94
9.9.5.2 Rust and acid-resistant steel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 94
9.9.5.3 Aluminum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 95
9.10 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 96
9.10.1 Cutting head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 96
Chapter 1
1 Product description
This chapter contains general information, product data and notes on fit-
ted equipment. Further details are given in the order confirmation.
1.1 Introduction
A
B C
A Control cabinet
B Loading table
C Combined cooling and filtration unit
D Laser module
E Unloader
F Machining area
The laser cutting machine is used for the industrial cutting and engraving
of sheets of the materials listed below. Operation is manned.
protective film
single-sided
galvanized
none
oiled
Structural steel St 37-2 ⎯
Thickness 1 to 8 mm Stw 22
a)
Aluminum AlMg3 ⎯ ⎯ ⎯
Thickness 1 to 4 mm
Only those materials approved for the laser cutting machine may be ma-
chined.
Fig. 1.1-2 Working positions at the laser cutting machine (safety door opened)
F
D
B E
A Control cabinet
B Machining area
C Operator console
D Loading table
E Unloader
F Combined cooling and filtration unit
Fig. 1.1-3 Working positions at the laser cutting machine (safety door opened)
F
D
B E
A Control cabinet
B Machining area
C Operator console
D Loading table
E Unloader
F Combined cooling and filtration unit
1.1.5 Labeling
A D
B E
F
C
G H
A Machine name
B Job number
C Total weight of machine in [kg]
D Year of manufacture
E Machine number
F Equipment number (technical ID number of the complete laser cut-
ting machine)
G Maximum weight of a sheet in [kg/m2]
H CE conformity mark
A
B C
E
F
A D
B E
C F
G
H J
I K
A Machine name
B Job number
C Total weight of laser module in [kg]
D Year of manufacture
E Laser module number
F Equipment number (technical ID number of the complete laser cut-
ting machine)
G Laser medium
H Emitted wavelength in [NM]
I Beam diameter [mm]
J Maximum output power in [W]
K Beam divergence in [mrad]
L CE conformity mark
1.2.1 Specification
a) as per VDI/VDQ 3441. Measurement length 1 m (3.28 ft). The precision of the finished
part depends on the given material, its thickness and quality.
B
Y+
X+
Length L Width B
+20 +20
Standard sheet 3 2 500 0 ⎯ 1 250 0 ⎯
+1.5 +1.5
Standard sheet 4 ⎯ 96 0 ⎯ 48 0
+20 +20
Standard sheet 5 2 000 0 ⎯ 1 000 0 ⎯
+1.5 +1.5
Standard sheet 6 ⎯ 72 0 ⎯ 40 0
A partly cut standard sheet is a sheet with a standard width and a length
of at least 1 200 mm.
A sheet segment is a piece cut off a standard sheet. A segment can be cut
by the machine without moving the standard sheet.
10 mm1) B2 10 mm1)
10 mm1)
L2
L1
10 mm1)
X+
B1
Length Width
L1 L2 B1 B2
[mm] [mm] [mm] [mm]
L
Y+
X+
Length L Width B
Residual sheet max. 772 max. 30.40 max. 1 562 max. 61.50
X+
X range Y range
Cutting area max. 1 562 max. 61.50 max. 772 max. 30.40
The following conditions must be met in order to be able to cut the maxi-
mum thicknesses.
Laser cutting machine must be in optimum condition with optimum set-
tings and adjustments
Materials must meet the quality standards specified by the machine
manufacturer (laser materials)
1.0 0,040 19
1.5 0,060 16
2.0 0,074 14
2.5 0,104 12 ⎯
3.0 0,125 11 ⎯
4.0 0,160 8 ⎯ ⎯
5.0 0,187 7 ⎯ ⎯
6.0 0,250 ⎯ ⎯ ⎯
8.0 0,312 ⎯ ⎯ ⎯
1.0 0,040 19 ⎯
1.5 0,060 16 ⎯
2.0 0,074 14 ⎯
2.5 0,104 12 ⎯ ⎯
3.0 0,125 11 ⎯ ⎯
4.0 0,160 8 ⎯ ⎯
5.0 0,187 7 ⎯ ⎯
6.0 0,250 ⎯ ⎯ ⎯
1.0 0,040 19 ⎯
1.5 0,060 16 ⎯
2.0 0,074 14 ⎯
2.5 0,104 12 ⎯ ⎯
3.0 0,125 11 ⎯ ⎯
4.0 0,160 8 ⎯ ⎯
1.3 Equipment
Chapter 2
2 Safety regulations
This chapter describes the safety precautions for the protection of person-
nel and machine.
It also explains the symbols and warnings used in these operating instruc-
tions.
DANGER
Immediate risk of severe injuries or death
WARNING
Potentially dangerous situation leading to severe injuries
or death
CAUTION
Potentially dangerous situation leading to minor injuries
or damage to property
2.
3.
Those persons whose job requires them to work within the danger zone of
the laser cutting machine are, despite all safety measures, exposed to an
acceptable level of risk.
Read the operating instructions before starting up the laser cutting ma-
chine.
1) Skilled staff: a skilled member of staff means someone who, on the basis of his/her
technical education, knowledge and experience, plus knowledge of the relevant
regulations, can assess the work given to him/her and recognize the potential hazards.
DANGER
Remaining within a danger zone
While the laser cutting machine is operating it is forbid-
den to stay within the machining area.
Keep unauthorized persons away from the work area.
CAUTION
Risk of pinch/crushing injury when loading or un-
loading the laser cutting machine
Wear protective gloves and steel-capped boots
The laser cutting machine must be arranged so that there is space around
it to allow unrestricted access to the loading and unloading tables for
bringing in and taking away material.
Signs must be permanently affixed and easily legible. Signs must be re-
placed if they are very worn or no longer legible.
Do not change the original position of the signs when replacing them.
Fig. 2.3-1 Warning and information labels on the laser cutting machine
D
B
Fig. 2.3-2 Warning and information labels on the laser cutting machine
A
C
A E
C D
Training of operators takes place after the system has been commissioned
by the manufacturer's service staff. Please see the order confirmation for
further details.
It is the responsibility of the owner of the machine to ensure that operat-
ing staff are properly trained.
A selection of optional training courses are offered for the machines. Fur-
ther information is available from the Customer Training Center.
2.4.1 Users
All persons who work with or at the machine are designated as a user in
these operating instructions.
The demands placed on users vary according to the activity they must
perform.
Users are classified as follows:
Owner
The term owner is used to describe the signatory to the agreement with
the manufacturer, or their representative. The owner is authorized as
legally-binding signatory to agreements.
He/she procures the laser cutting machine and ensures that it is used
correctly and in accordance with regulations.
Operator
The term operator refers to a person trained to operate the machine.
The operator operates and looks after the machine in normal operation.
Relevant training of the operator includes participation in a training
course by the manufacturer.
Works engineer
Works engineer refers to a skilled person with training in mechanical or
electrical engineering. The works engineer maintains the machine, ser-
vices it and carries out minor repairs as necessary.
Training of the work's engineer includes participation in a course held by
the manufacturer.
2.4.2 Qualifications
Only persons instructed and trained by the owner may work on the ma-
chine. Personnel are responsible for third persons in the work area.
Personnel still requiring training, instruction or teaching are only allowed
to operate the machine under constant supervision by an experienced per-
son.
2.4.3 Responsibility
Laser devices are classified according to the potential danger of the laser
radiation. The applicable laser class depends on the operating mode of the
laser cutting machine (see section 4.3 ›Operating modes‹).
WARNING
In Service mode the laser cutting machine corre-
sponds to a Class 4 laser (i.e. not fully screened la-
ser radiation).
The direct laser beam and reflected and stray radiation
are very dangerous for eyes and skin.
Fence off laser area
Cover or remove reflective objects.
Remove combustible objects.
Avoid producing explosive solvent fumes
Wear laser safety eyewear
WARNING
Direct laser beam
In service mode the laser cutting machine corresponds
to a Class 4 laser.
The direct laser beam can cause life-threatening injuries
to the whole body.
The following points must be observed when working with the laser cut-
ting machine:
Never expose yourself to direct laser radiation.
Never modify the fastenings used on optical components.
Follow all instructions in the operating instructions.
Fig. 2.5-1 Laser protective eyewear providing L5 protection (as per EN 207)
Reflected and stray radiation is also possible if the waste trays happen to
be pulled forwards during a cutting process.
Before every cutting process, make sure that the waste trays are inserted
correctly.
WARNING
Risk of injury from reflected and stray radiation
The laser cutting machine must only be used when the
waste trays are inserted.
WARNING
High voltage 25 000 VDC
Voltages greater than 50 V and currents greater than
20 mA are dangerous and can cause death.
Work on high-voltage components must be performed
solely by the manufacturer’s service personnel.
WARNING
Dangerous electrical voltage
Improper or negligent handling of electrical installations
or equipment can result in severe injuries or death.
Work on electrical installations or equipment must be
performed solely by skilled staff or under their supervi-
sion.
The following points must be observed when working with electrical instal-
lations or equipment:
Only use original fuses with the specified amperage.
Switch the machine off immediately in the event of a fault in the electri-
cal supply.
Electrical components on which maintenance work is being performed
must be disconnected from the electrical supply unless otherwise speci-
fied.
First check that isolated parts are de-energized, then earth and short-
circuit them and also insulate adjacent live parts.
Inspect electrical equipment regularly. Rectify faults such as loose con-
nections or singed cables immediately.
When working on live (hot) parts, a second person must be present
who can operate the EMERGENCY STOP button or power switch in an
emergency. Fence off the work area with a red-and-white safety chain
and a warning sign.
Always use insulated tools.
WARNING
Risk of injury from flying parts and escaping air
Do not perform any assembly or disassembly work, or
unscrew or tighten any screw connections, while the
system is under pressure.
Depressurize all subsystems which require opening, be-
fore commencing maintenance and repair work.
If there are leaks in the gas supply, escaping oxygen can combine with a
naked flame to cause deflagrations. Check the lines on the gas supply are
connected correctly.
DANGER
Danger to life and limb of the operator or third
party
Impaired respiration and cardiac functions if containers
or lines are leaking.
Check connections and lines for leaks.
WARNING
Risk of explosion
Do not oil or grease gas-bottle connections.
This could lead to an explosion from a chemical reaction.
Further information on the gas supply and its hazards is given in the in-
stallation instructions.
Where air is recirculated, ventilate rooms well with fresh air after every
shift. Prevent gas collecting in enclosed accessible areas (e.g. shafts
and ducts).
Select fire extinguishers to suit the flammable materials present in the
room. Signpost the location of extinguishers and escape routes.
Perform leak tests regularly. Leave the room immediately if there is a
major leak or equipment failure, and do not re-enter unless using self-
contained breathing apparatus. At least two people must be present in
this case.
Keep gas bottles away from naked flames and heat sources (>50°C).
Protect bottles from direct sunlight if stored outside.
Always transport bottles with safety cap fitted. Secure bottles against
falling over.
Look out for leaks from bottles during storage and when in use. Store in
a well-ventilated location away from combustible materials. Do not
store in escape routes or work areas, or in their immediate vicinity. Do
not fill bottles in storerooms.
Only use original parts. Close bottle valves before handling. When
changing the bottles, check the valves on full and empty bottles for
leaks. Never adjust safety valves. Do not release gases in enclosed
spaces.
Repairs must be performed by specialists.
Wear protective clothing and gloves made of leather or thick material. If
the gas escapes into enclosed spaces, self-contained breathing appara-
tus must be worn.
Observe additional national directives, for example vehicle labeling dur-
ing transport, regular staff training etc.
Observe national directives on bottle licensing and test periods.
LASERMIX 312 is composed of the gases helium (He), nitrogen (N2) and
carbon dioxide (CO2). The main constituent is helium at > 60%. Carbon
dioxide forms the smallest component at < 5%.
Carbon dioxide Carbon dioxide can react strongly with various substanc-
CO2 es, particularly at higher temperatures, and is therefore
not suitable for universal extinguishing purposes. Dan-
gerous reactions may occur when mixed with ammoniac,
ethylamine, methylamine, dimethylamine and trimethy-
lamine. When liquid carbon dioxide expands rapidly to
atmospheric pressure, it freezes to dry ice as it cools to -
79 °C, then quickly vaporizes without passing through
the fusion stage.
First aid
if carbon dioxide has been inhaled, remove the victim from the hazard ar-
ea. Provide sufficient fresh air. In enclosed spaces, first-aid personnel
must wear self-contained breathing apparatus. Victims need rest, warmth
and possibly artificial respiration. Keep air passages clear, monitor blood
circulation, perform cardiac massage if necessary. If patient loses con-
sciousness, place and transport him in a stable lateral position. Consult
doctor.
First aid
if carbon dioxide has been inhaled, remove the victim from the hazard ar-
ea. Provide sufficient fresh air. In enclosed spaces, first-aid personnel
must wear self-contained breathing apparatus. Victims need rest, warmth
and possibly artificial respiration. Keep air passages clear, monitor blood
circulation, perform cardiac massage if necessary. If patient loses con-
sciousness, place and transport him in a stable lateral position. Consult
doctor.
The dust and fumes produced during cutting are extracted from the cut-
ting area by a dust extraction unit. The dust is filtered out.
Check that the dust extraction unit is running and operating at the correct
extraction rate if any smells are noticed during cutting.
WARNING
Risk of fire
If extraction levels are inadequate, there is a risk of gas-
es and cutting residues remaining in the extraction ducts
and catching fire there.
The extraction rate of the extraction unit must always
equal that given in the specification.
Observe maintenance intervals as per maintenance
schedule
Do not let stubbed cigarettes or objects that are still
alight get into the extraction chambers or piping of
the dust extraction system.
When changing from steel to aluminum or vice versa,
the dust must be kept strictly separate. A separate
dust hopper must be used for each material.
For flammable, potentially explosive and self-igniting
dusts, empty the hopper frequently to minimize the
amount of dust held in it.
The fumes given off on combustion are highly toxic. They cannot be com-
pletely removed by the extraction system.
Plastics must not be cut on the laser cutting machine.
The output coupler of the laser module and the lens in the cutting head
are made of zinc selenide. When intact, these components pose no dan-
ger.
However, toxic fumes are generated if thermal decomposition of a lens oc-
curs. In addition, damage to the coating allows the escape of thorium flu-
oride, which is slightly radioactive.
CAUTION
Toxic fumes and dust particles
Wear a breathing mask and protective gloves during
cleaning work.
Defective lenses must be returned to the manufacturer
of the laser cutting machine in a sealed container.
Always ventilate the working environment thoroughly
after any damage.
For further details on first aid measures refer to the safety data sheets
on zinc selenide and thorium contained in the supplier documentation
folder.
CAUTION
Poisoning
Inhaling oil vapors or oil fumes can lead to nausea and
sickness.
Avoid contact with oil vapors and oil fumes. Ensure ade-
quate ventilation.
WARNING
Risk of explosion
Do not allow sprays or spray cans to come into contact
with hot objects, machine parts, gases or vapors.
Place working materials on suitable surfaces (e.g. tool
trolley).
Chapter 3
This chapter provides information on the position and functions of the var-
ious hardware units. The safety and monitoring devices fitted on the prod-
uct are also described in greater detail.
3.1 Introduction
For laser cutting, a focused laser beam is directed at the sheet metal to be
cut on the cutting table.
The laser beam is directed from the laser module via a number of deflect-
ing mirrors to the focusing lens in the cutting head.
C
B
A
F G
A Laser module
B Laser beam
C Cutting-bridge deflecting mirror
D Cutting-carriage deflecting mirror
E Cutting head
F Focused laser beam
G Cut part
The route taken by the laser beam from the output of the laser module to
the cutting head is called the beam path.
WARNING
Risk of fire and explosion
The laser beam can cause flammable and explosive flu-
ids and vapors to ignite. Foreign bodies, fluids and gases
can also have an adverse effect on the beam quality.
Cleaning agents and solvents and their vapors should
therefore be kept away from the beam path.
The cutting bridge and carriage move during operating, together with the
deflecting mirrors mounted on them. This changes the length of the beam
path.
This principle of laser-beam guidance is called Flying optics.
Deflecting mirrors are used along the machine axes to deflect the laser
beam. These mirrors are flat.
The beam quality (the parallelism, for example) is maintained with flat
mirrors.
A Deflecting mirror
B Laser beam
The angle of incidence and the angle of reflection are measured with re-
spect to the normal line. The angles of incidence and reflection are equal.
If the deflecting mirror is rotated through a certain angle then the direc-
tion of the reflected beam alters by twice that angle.
A B
A Angle of incidence α
B Angle of reflection β
C Laser beam
D Coating
E Base material
F Normal line
I B
G
C
F
E
D
A Control cabinet
B Machine stand
C Laser module
D Unloader
E Operator console
F Travel unit
G Cutting table
H Sheet feed
I Safety door
C
A
A Safety covers
B Loading table
C Combined cooling and filtration unit
Fig. 3.3-1 Safety devices on the laser cutting machine viewed from the operating side
C
F
E
D
Fig. 3.3-2 Safety devices on the laser cutting machine viewed from the loading side
The laser cutting machine must only be used when safety de-
vices are operating correctly.
After the power is switched on (ON position), all the units and controllers
required for operating the laser cutting machine are started automatically.
The main switch can be secured in the OFF position with a padlock to pre-
vent unauthorized switch-on.
The shutter lock is used to protect service personnel working on the beam
path against accidental opening of the shutter.
In normal operating mode, the shutter switch is always in the UNLOCK
position.
When the safety door is open, the emission of laser power, movement of
machine parts and a machine restart are prevented.
The laser cutting machine can only be put into operation with the safety
door shut.
Detail X
C D
A Safety interlock
B Switch
C Switch in home position
D Safety interlock released manually
The whole machining area is enclosed by covers and a safety door, which
protect the machining area during the work process. The safety door posi-
tion is monitored by safety switches.
DANGER
Standing within a danger zone
Moving parts such as the cutting bridge, cutting carriage
or Z-axis pose a risk of crushing, which can be fatal.
No-one is permitted within the machining area when the
safety door is closed.
The closed safety door blocks access to the cutting area. It protects
against:
reflected laser radiation
sparks
injury from moving parts
The safety door must be closed and locked before a work process can be
started on the laser cutting machine.
The service opening gives access for maintenance work (e.g. access to
clean air filter). In normal operating mode, the service opening is closed.
DANGER
Standing within a danger zone
Moving parts such as the cutting bridge, cutting carriage
or Z-axis pose a risk of crushing, which can be fatal.
Before removing the cover, shut down the machine, turn
off the main power switch and secure it in this position
with a padlock.
C
B
A Pneumatic cylinder
B Telescopic rail
C Diaphragm
The unloader is enclosed by covers and a safety cover. The safety cover
opens automatically as soon as a cut sheet segment is ready to be re-
moved.
The safety cover can also be released manually by pressing the relevant
button on the operator console (see section 4.2.3.2 ›Function buttons‹).
Closing the safety cover confirms that the unloading table is empty.
The covers and folding doors on the laser module are mechanically locked.
The main power switch must always be in the OFF position before remov-
ing covers or opening the folding doors.
Use a padlock to secure the main power switch against unauthorized
switch-on.
CAUTION
External supply
Turning off the main power switch does not cut off the
supply to the dehumidifier.
To turn off the dehumidifier, pull out the mains plug.
A A
B B B
A Folding doors
B Covers
The covers prevent accidental contact with high-voltage parts. The covers
are screwed on and fitted with a safety switch.
When a cover is removed, the high voltage is immediately switched off.
DANGER
High voltage -25 000 VDC
Touching live (hot) high-voltage parts may result in
death.
The covers must only be removed by the manufacturer’s
service personnel.
B
B
A Folding doors
B High voltage covers
The beam path is totally sealed by structural parts, bellows and protective
covers.
Bellows and safety covers protect people from stray radiation and from di-
rect contact with the laser beam. They also double as protection for the
optical system from outside influences.
DANGER
Invisible laser radiation
The beam path protective covers must never be re-
moved or modified.
The beam shielding tube between the laser module and
the machine must not be subjected to mechanical loads.
Bending of the beam shielding tube can allow the laser
beam to escape unprotected or damage the tube.
A Control cabinet
B Air conditioning unit
C Doors
D Controls (see section 4.2.1 ›Control cabinet‹.)
The operator console is inserted in the holder on the safety cover. For op-
eration, this can be removed from the holder and carried around by the
user.
If the touch screen is not operated using the finger, the use of a
suitable touch stylus is recommended.
The machine stand provides the support for the laser cutting machine. As-
semblies, including travel unit, cutting table and unloader are built onto
the machine stand.
The clean air supply and power supply are housed in the machine stand.
A F
A Bridge
B Clean air supply unit (behind cover)
C Cutting table
D Travel unit
E Unloader
F Supply unit (behind cover). See section 3.6.2 ›Supply unit‹
G Supply connections (see installation instructions)
The air drier (adsorption drier) supplies the laser cutting machine with
clean air for ventilation of the beam path.
The air drier contains two adsorber units. These work reciprocally, i.e. the
air is filtered and dried in one element whilst the other regenerates itself.
Fig. 3.6-3 Position of the supply unit (shown without safety covers)
See the installation instructions for details of the quality and pressure
of the compressed air supply.
A C
B F
E
D
See the installation instructions for details of the quality and pressure
of the cutting gas supply.
D
E
C F
N2
O2
r )
Ai 1
The cutting bridge moves along the X-axis. It carries the cutting carriage,
which moves along the Y-axis.
The laser beam is deflected from the X-axis onto the Y-axis by the deflect-
ing mirror mounted on its rear side (see Fig. 3.1-1).
A Bridge
B Cutting bridge
C Cutting carriage
D Laser beam
The cutting carriage moves along the Y axis. It carries the Z-axis on which
the cutting head is mounted.
On the Z-axis, the cutting head moves in a vertical direction. It raises the
cutting head when traversing between different figures on the work piece,
and ensures that the nozzle clearance height remains constant even when
the work piece is uneven.
In the cutting carriage, the laser beam is deflected from the Y-axis onto
the Z-axis.
B
C
A Cutting carriage
B Cutting head
C Laser beam
D Severance-cut monitoring
The light sensor scans the severance cut before removing a cut sheet seg-
ment. It detects if a severance cut is not made properly.
If the severance cut is OK, the cut sheet segment is transferred to the
unloading area.
If the severance cut is not OK, an error message is issued and produc-
tion halted.
A
B
The cutting head is the final element of the beam guidance system. The
laser beam is focused in the cutting head to achieve the power density re-
quired for cutting.
The cutting gas is fed through the cutting head. During the cutting process
this drives molten material out of the cut gap and prevents the focusing
lens from being damaged by splashes of slag.
The stream of cutting gas is shaped by the nozzle so that the greatest
possible percentage of the gas flows through the kerf.
The two centering screws center the laser beam in the nozzle (see section
5.5.5 ›Centering the nozzle‹).
X
F
B
G
H
D
E E
Detail X
3.7.5 Nozzles
A Cutting head
B Nozzle
K17
3.7.5.2 Labeling
Capacitive detection
K 10 Nozzle diameter 1.0 mm
High pressure
H K 17 Nozzle diameter 1.7 mm
Capacitive detection
The cutting table is equipped with plug-in cutting grates on which the
sheet to be cut is laid.
CAUTION
Risk of pinch/crushing injury when loading or un-
loading material
Wear protective gloves and steel-capped boots
A
B
H
C
G
F E D
F
During the unloading procedure, the unloading table moves under the cut
sheet segment. The lifting unit lowers the cutting table until the cut sheet
segment comes to rest on the unloading table.
A Guide
B Lifting unit
The cutting grate supports the sheet to be cut. The slats are made of
steel.
Steel slats impair the cutting process less than other materials. The dura-
bility of these slats depends on the laser power used for cutting.
A Sheet
B Cutting grate
Two sheet stops are provided for positioning leftover sheets at the zero
point. One of the sheet stops can be moved in the X-direction to fit the
size of the sheet.
The sheet stops are set up initially by the manufacturer’s service person-
nel.
During the cleaning procedure, the nozzle head passes several times
across the brass brush on the cutting table, removing any dirt, deposits
and metal splashes.
The nozzle cleaning procedure is carried out at the end of a cutting plan or
after a certain number of piercing cuts.
During calibration, the nozzle is lowered to the calibration plate until con-
tact is made. Then the Z-axis moves upwards checking various nozzle
clearance heights in the process.
The cutting area is divided into two extraction sectors. The appropriate ex-
traction flaps are opened depending on the position of the cutting head.
The extracted air is cleaned by the air filtration unit.
Fig. 3.8-7 Cutting table (shown without cutting grate and safety covers)
A
C
WARNING
Risk of fire
Production of flammable or explosive mixtures.
The extraction chambers, waste trays and swarf in the
cutting area must be cleared completely when changing
material from steel to aluminum or vice versa.
Small parts or cutting waste fall through the support grate and are collect-
ed in waste trays. The waste trays can be moved out to the front for emp-
tying.
There are two waste trays under the cutting table and one under the un-
loader.
Before every cutting process, make sure that the waste trays are inserted
correctly.
WARNING
Risk of injury from reflected and stray radiation
The laser cutting machine must only be used when the
waste trays are inserted.
3.9 Unloader
The loading table is fitted with roller balls on which the standard sheet or
partly cut standard sheet can be pushed up to the stops (see section
5.4.1 ›Cutting standard sheets‹).
The stops are located between the loading table and the cutting area.
The correct position of the standard sheet or partly cut standard sheet is
monitored by inductive proximity switches in the stops. The loading status
is shown by an indicator lamp (see section 4.1.2 ›Loading status‹).
The sheet can only be clamped and pulled in if it is correctly positioned.
Fig. 3.9-2 Standard sheet or partly cut standard sheet against sheet stop.
A B C
A Longitudinal stop
B Transverse stop
C Sheet clamping
D Standard sheet or partly cut standard sheet
For the subsequent cutting process, the standard sheet or partly cut stan-
dard sheet is pulled into the cutting area by the sheet feed.
The sheet is held by the suction unit by a vacuum. To pull the sheet in, the
cutting carriage couples to the suction unit and pulls the sheet in the Y di-
rection onto the cutting table.
Once the sheet has been pulled in, the feed unit is returned to its home
position by the cutting carriage.
A Coupling
B Suction unit
C Telescopic rail
D Standard sheet or partly cut standard sheet
The rows of suction cups must be switched on or off manually using vacu-
um switches depending on the size of the sheet placed on the table. When
using standard sheets 1 and 2, both vacuum switches must be in the ON
position.
View X
1 3 000 mm × 1 500 mm ON ON
3.10 Unloader
The unloader enables the cut sheet segment to be removed while the next
sheet segment is being cut.
The cut sheet segment is automatically transported to the unloading table.
If a cut sheet segment is ready for removal, the safety cover opens auto-
matically. If the safety cover is closed by the operator, this is treated as
confirmation that the cut sheet segment has been removed.
The cut sheet segment is transported from the cutting area on the unload-
ing table.
A Protective flap
B Unloading table
C Linear guides
D Synchronous belt
During removal of the cut parts, small parts and cutting waste fall into the
waste tray. The waste trays can be moved out to the front for emptying.
The laser module is where the laser beam is generated. The operating
state of the laser module is shown by an indicator lamp (see section
4.1.1 ›Indicator lamp‹).
The safety covers and folding doors must only be removed and/or opened
for servicing purposes, with the main power switch in the OFF position.
CAUTION
External supply
Turning off the main power switch does not cut off the
supply to the dehumidifier.
To turn off the dehumidifier, pull out the mains plug.
To prevent dirt entering the laser module, ensure that the covers and fold-
ing doors are always properly closed and locked.
A Beam outlet
B Lower section of laser module with safety covers
C Upper section of laser module with folding doors
D Indicator lamp
The upper section of the laser module houses the optical system. These
are protected from accidental contact by the high-voltage covers.
Fig. 3.11-2 Laser module viewed from operating side (folding doors open)
The optical components are important and sensitive components of the la-
ser module. They require special handling and care.
B B
B
C
B
A
H C
G
D
J E
F
I
A End mirror
B Horizontal beam-folding mirror
C Vertical beam-folding mirror
D Output coupler
E Shutter
F 90o deflecting mirror
G 45o deflecting mirror
H Convex telescopic mirror
I Concave telescopic mirror
J Polarizing mirror
The lower section of the laser module houses the excitation modules and
the laser controller.
Fig. 3.11-4 Laser module viewed from operating side (shown without safety covers)
B C
A Frequency converter
B Dehumidifier
C Vacuum pump
D Central gas cooler
E Gasmix unit
Fig. 3.11-5 Laser module viewed from loading side (shown without safety covers)
F
G
F Laser controller
G High-voltage excitation
H Turboblower
The purpose of the combined cooling and filtration unit is to cool water
and filter out metal cutting dusts, and is used in conjunction with a laser
cutting machine.
The combined cooling and filtration unit is ready for connection, and con-
sists chiefly of the housing, the components for the cooling-agent, cool-air
and water circuits, the air filtration unit, the control cabinet and all the
control and monitoring units required for automatic operation.
C K
D
L
E
F
G H
J
M
A Internet environment
B Secure communication (SSH)
C Owner environment
D Firewall
E Router
F Owner's network
G Machine network
H Netbox / Router
I Machines
J Remote Diagnostics Box (RD box)
K Manufacturer environment
L Firewall
M Remote Diagnostics Server (RD server)
C I
D
J
E
F
H
K
A Internet environment
B Secure communication (SSH)
C Owner environment
D Firewall
E Router
F Owner's network
G Machines
H Remote Diagnostics Box (RD box)
I Manufacturer environment
J Firewall
K Remote Diagnostics Server (RD server)
Nitrogen (N2), oxygen (O2) and optionally compressed air (Air) are used
for laser cutting. See section 9 ›Cutting technology‹
The gas quality has a crucial impact on the cut quality. Nitrogen affects
the quality of the cut surface. The following tables show the relationship
between quality grade and oxide formation on the cut surface.
Proportion of water
nitrogen + argon
Proportion of
N2 + Ar / [ppm]
Cut surface
H2O / [ppm]
Gas type
Quality
[Vol. %]
Purity
a) Recommendation
The cutting gas consumption depends on the pressure and the nozzle
used. The following diagrams show recommended values for cutting in the
low-pressure and high-pressure region.
Fig. 3.14-1 Low pressure up to 6 bar (nozzle diameter 0.8 ... 3.0 mm)
Fig. 3.14-2 High pressure up to 20 bar (nozzle diameter 0.8 ... 3.0 mm)
Chapter 4
4 Control elements
The indicator lamp is mounted on the laser module. The various colors in-
dicate the operating status of the laser module.
All system, status and error messages are shown in the user interface
(see section 5.10 ›Troubleshooting‹).
4.1.3.2 Priorities
All messages are listed in the message list with the highest priority mes-
sage always at the top. See section 5.10.2 ›Message list‹
C B
The shutter lock is used to protect service personnel working on the beam
path against accidental opening of the shutter.
In normal operating mode, the shutter switch is always in the UNLOCK
position.
The laser cutting machine is operated from the operator console. The op-
erator console is designed as a touch screen. This means that the user in-
terface can be operated by touching the relevant on-screen buttons or
keys.
B
C A
E
E
C
B D
a) Function is only available if Deadman button is held pressed at the same time.
Button Description
Button Description
No function
Once the standard sheet is lying correctly against the sheet stop (loading
status indicator lamp lit), it can be clamped or released by pressing the
foot switch.
Manual operation is only available from the advanced functions. While cut-
ting is in progress, manual operation is blocked.
In manual operation, axes can be moved manually and the laser beam can
be switched on for a single pulse or continuously to make a manual sever-
ance cut. Only with the safety door closed and deadman button
held pressed.
Chapter 5
5 Operation
5.1 Introduction
The laser cutting machine is operated from the operator console, and at
the loading and unloading table.
Follow the procedure below to start up the laser cutting machine in normal
operating mode.
2. Press the reset button on the control cabinet. This enables the safety
circuit.
3. Switch on the main power switch on the combined cooling and filtra-
tion unit (ON position).
Color-coding:
5. Press the Unlock safety door button on the operator console. Open
and re-close the safety door.
If the safety door is already open then it must be closed.
6. Move the axes to the reference positions. The operator console dis-
plays the relevant operating prompt.
CONT
7. Press CONT on the hand-held controller. The axes move to the refer-
ence position.
8. Wait until the Ready message for the laser appears in the status bar
in the user interface.
The orange indicator lamp on the laser module also lights up to show
that the laser is ready.
The machine is operational. The display shows the main view with the
standard functions.
Operation of the machine can only be resumed once the emergency situa-
tion has been cleared and all defects and damage have been rectified.
2. Press the reset button on the control cabinet. This enables the safety
circuit.
4. Wait until the laser module is ready (orange indicator lamp on the la-
ser module comes on). You can then continue cutting.
Before the laser cutting machine can be switched off, the active cutting
processes must be completed.
Yes No
4. Wait until the laser module is flooded. As soon as the laser module is
flooded, all applications are automatically closed and the controller is
shut down.
5. Close shut-off valves for cutting gas, laser gas and compressed air.
6. Switch off the main power switch on the machine (OFF position).
7. Switch off the main power switch on the combined cooling and filtra-
tion unit (OFF position).
After starting up the laser cutting machine, the display shows the main
view with the standard functions.
The user can switch to the advanced functions at any time (function key
on operator console).
Whole or partly cut standard sheets (length greater than 1 200 mm) are
always loaded or removed at the loading table.
The operator is responsible for loading sheets of the correct material.
2. Push a standard sheet against the sheet stops by hand and clamp.
3. The standard sheet will be pulled into the cutting area by the sheet
feed and travel unit.
5. The sheet segment is transported from the cutting area to the un-
loading area. Manually remove the cut parts and skeleton.
6. To cut the next segment, the standard sheet is again pulled into the
cutting area.
Residual sheets are loaded and removed through the open safety door (for
maximum dimensions see section 1.2.2.4 ›Residual sheet‹).
The operator is responsible for loading the correct material. He/she must
ensure that the cutting plan fits the loaded residual sheet.
Usually each selected function (e.g. Service position, Laser pulse etc.)
is initiated by pressing the CONT button on the operator console. The
safety door must be closed.
A started function can be stopped or aborted at any time using the STOP
button on the operator console.
1. Select the desired function on the user interface (e.g. Service posi-
tion).
When changing the cutting head, the best access is obtained when the
head is in the service position.
A Clamping lever
B Mounting plate
C Cutting head
2. Hold the cutting head with one hand while releasing the two clamp-
ing levers with the other.
4. With one hand hold the new cutting head against the mount with
even pressure while tightening the two clamping levers with the oth-
er hand to fix the head in place.
After removing or fitting the cutting head, check that the laser
beam is centered in the nozzle. If necessary, center the noz-
zle.
The focal position for the material to be cut and the cutting gas used must
be set manually on the cutting head to the value shown.
D C
3. Adjust the focal position at the adjusting ring. One revolution of the
adjusting ring moves the foal position by 60/10 mm (6 mm).
Every cutting head has its own focus reference setting which is
used by the controller as a basis for calculation.
After cleaning or fitting a new lens, the focus reference setting
must be re-measured and saved in the parameters (see section
7.5.8 ›Measuring the focus reference setting‹).
A Nozzle
B Unscrewing the nozzle
C Screw in nozzle
2. Unscrew the nozzle by hand. If it is stuck fast, use a ring wrench with
suitable care.
A B
A B
A Nozzle aperture
B Laser burn mark on the adhesive tape
C Adhesive tape
1. Affix a strip of transparent adhesive tape onto the nozzle in the cut-
ting head.
6. Using a mirror, check whether the hole burnt into the adhesive tape
is positioned exactly in the center of the nozzle aperture (see
Fig. 5.5-6).
7. If necessary, use the centering screws on the cutting head (E) and
(F) to correct the laser beam in the appropriate direction.
z Turning clockwise (cw) moves the nozzle towards the centering
screw (see Fig. 5.5-8).
z Turning counterclockwise (ccw) moves the nozzle away from the
centering screw (see Fig. 5.5-9).
E F
E F
8. Repeat step 1 to step 7 until the laser beam is fired exactly through
the center of the nozzle (see Fig. 5.5-6).
5.6 Production
The system recognizes whether the loaded job needs to be cut from a
standard sheet or a residual sheet. The job is automatically added to the
end of the appropriate job list (Standard sheet production or Residual
sheet production).
Plus the memory stick into the USB port of the operator console (see sec-
tion 4.2.3 ›Operator console‹).
This function appears both in the standard functions and the advanced
functions.
B C
The list can be scrolled up or down line by line (rotary knob on operator
console).
The created jobs can be copied automatically from the source directory to
the destination directory of the laser cutting machine.
The source directory can be defined on the local hard disk or on a server in
the network. The NcpMachineDistributor software module must be in-
stalled for this function.
Fig. 5.6-2 Copying jobs from the source directory to the laser cutting machine
A A
D
C
A Programmer workstation
B Local hard disk
C Server in the network
D Installed NcpMachineDistributor software module
E Jobs created in Bysoft
F Laser cutting machine
In the Select job window, all available jobs are listed. The list can be
scrolled up or down line by line (rotary knob on operator console).
The job at the top of the list can be processed. If another job is to be pro-
cessed, it must first be moved to the top of the list.
A C
A Job list
B Prioritize job
C Defer (Move down) job
The order of processing can be changed using the Prioritize and Move
down functions.
Pressing button (B) moves the selected job to the top position in the
job list.
Pressing button (C) moves the job down one position in the list.
CAUTION
Risk of pinch/crushing injury when loading or un-
loading sheets
Wear protective gloves and steel-capped boots
2. Select job. If the correct job is not at the top of the list, it must first
be moved there (see section 5.6.2 ›Job selection‹).
9. Place a standard sheet on the loading table and push it against the
sheet stop (see section 5.4.1 ›Cutting standard sheets‹).
Fig. 5.6-8 Loading the sheet and pushing it against the stop
10. Once the standard sheet is correctly against the sheet stop, clamp it
by pressing the foot switch.
11. Press button (E) to confirm that sheet is loaded. The machine is
ready for cutting.
12. Start cutting process (see section 5.6.3.2 ›Starting the cutting pro-
cess‹).
If the machine has been set up correctly and the correct material with the
correct dimensions has been loaded, the cutting process can be started.
A Start and Stop functions (see section 5.6.5 ›Start and Stop func-
tions‹)
Cancel job
Start part
Start job
Stop part
B Manual operating Switch to manual mode. While cutting is in
mode progress, manual operation is blocked.
See section 5.7 ›Manual operation‹
C <Param Switch between the individual cutting pa-
Param> rameter views
See section 5.6.6 ›Changing cutting param-
eters‹
D Restart Run through cutting plan again
See section 5.6.9 ›Repeating the cutting
process (Restart)‹
1. Press the Start job or Start part button. See section 5.6.5 ›Start
and Stop functions‹ for how to start or stop processing.
3. Make a severance cut and then cut the parts on the sheet segment.
5. The sheet feed pulls the next sheet segment into the cutting area.
The machine continues to work through the cutting plan.
7. If the complete job has been worked through, it is deleted from the
job list. The following functions are carried out automatically:
z Clean nozzle
z Move to reference
CAUTION
Risk of burns
There is a risk of burns when removing the cut sheet
segment.
Wear protective gloves.
After transport of the cut sheet segment to the unloading position, the
safety cover on the unloader opens automatically allowing removal of cut
parts and skeleton.
Closing the safety cover confirms that the unloading table is empty.
The formats specified in section 1.2.2.4 ›Residual sheet‹ are permitted for
residual sheet production. Processing is possible only with the advanced
functions.
CAUTION
Risk of pinch/crushing injury when loading or un-
loading sheets
Wear protective gloves and steel-capped boots
3. Select job. If the correct job is not at the top of the list, it must first
be moved there (see section 5.6.2 ›Job selection‹).
10. Load the cutting table with a residual sheet and position it roughly at
the machine zero point (see section 5.4.2 ›Cutting residual sheets‹).
11. Press button (D) to confirm that sheet is loaded. The machine is
ready for cutting.
12. Start cutting process (see section 5.6.4.2 ›Starting the cutting pro-
cess‹).
If the machine has been set up correctly and the correct material with the
correct dimensions has been loaded, the cutting process can be started.
E
D
C
B
A Start and Stop functions (see section 5.6.5 ›Start and Stop func-
tions‹)
Cancel job
Start part
Start job
Stop part
B Manual operating Switch to manual mode
mode See section 5.7 ›Manual operation‹
C Save Save modified cutting parameters
parameters See section 5.6.7 ›Saving cutting parame-
ters‹
D Load Resets cutting parameters to default values
default See section 5.6.8 ›Resetting cutting param-
eters‹
1. Press the Start job or Start part button. See section 5.6.5 ›Start
and Stop functions‹ for how to start or stop processing.
3. Use the X+, X-, Y+ and Y- buttons while pressing the dead-man but-
ton to move the axes manually to the start position. Note direction of
travel (see Fig. 5.6-21).
7. If the complete job has been processed, it is deleted from the job list.
The following functions are carried out automatically:
z Clean nozzle
z move to reference
CAUTION
Risk of burns
There is a risk of burns when removing the cut residual
sheet.
Wear protective gloves.
After the cutting process, manually remove cut parts and skeleton from
the cutting table.
5.6.5.1 Stop
A started function can be stopped at any time using the STOP button on
the operator console.
Process whole job. If a job includes several Remaining runs, the opera-
tor console displays an operating prompt when another standard or resid-
ual sheet needs to be loaded.
Before a job that has been started can be canceled it must be stopped
(Stop part or STOP button).
Canceled jobs remain in the job list and are marked with a symbol (A).
On restarting a canceled job, processing continues after the last complete-
ly cut standard sheet. Incompletely cut standard sheets are repeated.
The cutting parameters are not optimized for maximum process reliability.
This means that adjustments can be needed for an optimum cutting result
(see section 9 ›Cutting technology‹).
The values of the individual cutting parameters are changed as percentag-
es of the default value. The default value is always 100%.
The part in processing when the cutting process was interrupted by press-
ing the STOP or Stop part button is skipped.
On resuming the cutting process with Start part or Start job, the axes
move to the zero point of the next part in the cutting sequence.
After the cutting process is interrupted with the STOP or Stop part but-
ton, the starting point for further processing of the cutting plan can be
shifted manually (see Fig. 5.6-22 and Fig. 5.6-21).
On resuming the cutting process with Start part or Start job, the axes
move to the part nearest to the starting point. The cutting sequence con-
tinues from this part.
The machine continues to work through the cutting plan from the position
at which cutting stopped.
Manual operation is only available from the advanced functions. While cut-
ting is in progress, manual operation is blocked.
Manual operation can be selected only when a cutting parameter file has
been selected. This is required for a manual severance cut, for example.
The cutting parameter file depends on the material of the loaded sheet.
A B C D E
Sheet thickness
1 1.0 mm 4 4.0 mm
1.5 1.5 mm 5 5.0 mm
2 2.0 mm 6 6.0 mm
2.5 2.5 mm 8 8.0 mm
3 3.0 mm
Cutting gas
N2 Nitrogen
O2 Oxygen
Air Compressed air
Additional information
HOT DIP GALVANIZED hot galvanized
GALVANIZED electro-galvanized
PLASTIC FOIL film-coated
F G
The laser mode defines which function is actuated when the Laser button
(on the operator console) is pressed. Only with safety door closed and
deadman button held pressed.
Burn Pressing the Laser button opens the shutter. The laser
beam is emitted continuously, in accordance with the se-
lected cutting parameter set. The shutter stays open for
as long as this button is pressed.
This function is used for a making a manual severance
cut.
CAUTION
Collision risk
The nozzle may be damaged when detection is disabled.
Only switch off detection for maintenance work.
The cutting parameters only apply during manual operation. See section
5.6.6 ›Changing cutting parameters‹ and section 9.6 ›Cutting parame-
ters‹ for how to change parameters.
On the user interface, two different parameters can be changed for the
single pulse mode.
The cleaning height (Z) defines how far the cutting head is lowered from
the Z-axis reference position in order to clean the nozzle.
max. adjustment range 90 ... 105 mm
Adjustment step 1 mm
The value (Z) may need to be increased as the cleaning brush wears
down. The optimum depth for the nozzle tip to extend into the brush
equals 2 ... 3mm.
When moving the axes manually, care must be taken to ensure that there
are no obstructions within the range of travel.
This function is available only with safety door closed and deadman button
held pressed.
X- X+
Y- Y+
Z- Z+
A B C D
3. Press CONT on the hand-held controller. The axes travel to the ser-
vice position.
Manual severance cuts are used to cut off waste or cut up residual sheets
into smaller pieces. This function is available only with safety door closed
and deadman button held pressed.
CAUTION
Making separating cuts
The cutting head must always be lowered during cutting
to prevent severe reflections or stray radiation.
Move the cutting head immediately after pressing the
Laser button. Otherwise, the laser beam can damage
the trays under the cutting table or the support grate.
5. Move the cutting head manually to the desired starting position (see
section 5.7.5 ›Moving the axes manually‹). The severance cut is
started from this position.
6. Press the Z- button on the operator console and hold until the cutting
head has been lowered to the appropriate nozzle clearance height.
Then release the button.
When the cutting head is lowered, traversing is performed at a slow-
er speed enabling more precise positioning in the starting position.
7. Move the cutting head about 1 mm beyond the edge of the sheet.
8. Open the shutter by pressing the Laser button. The shutter stays
open for as long as this button is pressed.
Use the buttons for the X and Y-axes to move immediately in the de-
sired direction for cutting the sheet.
10. Press Z+ on the operator console The cutting head moves upwards.
The cutting table can be moved into defined positions (top, center or bot-
tom). The current position is displayed.
The unloading table can be moved into the limits of travel (cutting area or
unloading area). The current position is displayed.
A C
The sheet is transported from the cutting table to the unloading area. The
machine does not make a severance cut in this case. The following points
must be observed:
Check that the length of a sheet segment or residual sheet does not ex-
ceed the maximum length (see section 1.2.2 ›Material formats and
thicknesses that can be cut‹). If necessary, use manual severance cuts
to reduce the sheet size.
Unloading is only possible when the unloading table is empty
This function is executed whether or not the cutting table contains ma-
terial
3. Press CONT on the hand-held controller. The sheet on the cutting ta-
ble is transported to the unloading area.
The maintenance functions can only be selected when the cutting process
is not running.
A D
B C
A B
G G
D E
If the warning message is displayed, run the calibration. This takes about
12 minutes. After calibration, the actual value returns to within the per-
mitted tolerance of the setpoint value.
Only run the calibration after the laser module has warmed up
(after about 2 h).
green Turboblower on
If the laser module is not supplying the required power, or there are prob-
lems with generating the vacuum, the cause may be a leak in the gas cir-
cuit.
The leak test will identify a leak in the gas circuit. A leak rate is displayed
as the result. This must not exceed 1 hPa/h.
The leak rate is only displayed once the evacuation process has finished
(approx. 10 ... 15 minutes after starting). Watch the operating status of
the laser components.
The started leak test can be stopped at any time.
If the leak test produces a leak rate >1 hPa/h, there is a leak in
the gas circuit. Contact the manufacturer’s Customer Services
department.
5.9 Settings
The interface language can be changed without having to restart the laser
cutting machine.
1. Select the Settings function on the user interface or press the Lan-
guage select button on the operator console.
5.9.2 Configuration
C B
The setting for the dimensional units applies to the display of the material
dimensions (length, width, thickness) and to the display of the axis posi-
tions (X, Y and Z axes).
Units Description
A
B
C
E
D
A B C
No entry
Required entry
A
B
C
D
Power switch on Total duration, in hours, for which the main switch has
been on.
Machine ready for Total duration, in hours, for which the laser cutting
cutting machine has been started up and referenced.
Production time Total duration, in hours, for which jobs have been
processed.
5.9.4 Versions
A
B
C F
D G
E H
5.9.5 Administration
A B
5.10 Troubleshooting
All system, status and error messages are displayed in the status bar (A).
Touch the status bar to open the message list. All active messages are list-
ed in the message list, with the highest priority message always at the
top.
If a number of messages are active simultaneously, the list can be scrolled
up or down line by line (rotary knob on operator console).
A
B
A Display details
B Detailed information on the selected system message, status mes-
sage or error message
C Close dialog
Press button (D) to open the Online Help for the selected message. The
Online Help contains a description of the cause of the error and its correc-
tion.
Most messages are automatically reset once normal conditions are re-
stored.
There are, however, certain fault conditions for which the message must
be reset by the operator after clearance of the fault.
Messages can be reset only after the causes have been com-
pletely cleared.
Press button (A) to reset the message. Press button (B) to close the mes-
sage list.
The remote diagnostics facility is operated via a web browser (Internet Ex-
plorer, Firefox, Opera etc.).
Open the home page by entering the IP address of the RD box.
The owner can connect the RD-box to the RD server and disconnect it.
When connected, the manufacturer's Customer Services department can
view diagnostic data for individual machine modules.
C D
B
E
The status of every machine module can be viewed in the Diagnostics ar-
ea.
B
A C
5.11.3.1 Navigation
paint Description
green
The module does not respond to the query. Also flagged Offline.
red
red
Chapter 6
6 Maintenance
6.1 Introduction
Maintenance staff must be familiar with the technical details of the laser
cutting machine. They must have read and understood all operating in-
structions and safety-related directions in these operating instructions.
Always disconnect the machine from the supply when performing mainte-
nance and repair work. Protect the main power switch with a padlock and
store the key in a place inaccessible to a third party.
WARNING
Electric shock
When working on live (hot) components there is a dan-
ger of electric shock.
Electrical components on which maintenance work is be-
ing performed must be disconnected from the electrical
supply unless otherwise specified.
Check that disconnected components are de-ener-
gized.
Insulate any adjacent live (hot) parts.
CAUTION
Risk of burns
Risk of burns if maintenance and repair work is per-
formed on the gears when they are still at working tem-
perature.
Allow gear units to cool down.
1 Cleaning instructions
Fig. 6.4-1
As necessary
structions source
resources
16 000 h
32 000 h
1 000 h
3 000 h
8 000 h
150 h
500 h
daily
50 h
Laser cutting ⎯ Check for external damage X
machine
⎯ Complete cleaning X
Safety door Chapter 7.4.2 Clean and lubricate guides Universal grease X
Motorex 190 EP
Gas supply Chapter 7.7.1 Cutting gas supply, change gas cylinder X
As necessary
structions source
resources
16 000 h
32 000 h
1 000 h
3 000 h
8 000 h
150 h
500 h
daily
50 h
Travel unit Chapter 7.4.3.9 Check bellows for damage. X
As necessary
structions source
resources
16 000 h
32 000 h
1 000 h
3 000 h
8 000 h
150 h
500 h
daily
50 h
Travel unit Chapter 7.4.3.7 Clean and lubricate Z-axis linear guides Chain oil X
Chainlube 622
Severance- Chapter 7.4.3.10 Check laser diode and window for soiling. X X
cut monitor- Clean if necessary.
ing
As necessary
structions source
resources
16 000 h
32 000 h
1 000 h
3 000 h
8 000 h
150 h
500 h
daily
50 h
Cutting table Chapter 7.4.5.1 Clear extraction chambersa) X X
Chapter 7.4.5.4 Precision screw jack, grease spindle nut Universal grease X
Motorex 190 EP
a) The extraction chambers must be cleared completely when changing material from steel to aluminum or vice versa.
As necessary
structions source
resources
16 000 h
32 000 h
1 000 h
3 000 h
8 000 h
150 h
500 h
daily
50 h
Sheet feed Chapter 7.4.6.1 Clean and lubricate telescopic rails Chain oil X
Chainlube 622
Cutting head Chapter 7.4.4.1 Check lens for dirt, metal splashes or Lens cleaning kit X X
scratched surface. Clean or replace if nec-
essary.
As necessary
structions source
resources
16 000 h
32 000 h
1 000 h
3 000 h
8 000 h
150 h
500 h
daily
50 h
Clean air sup- Chapter 7.4.8.1 Check LED display on air drier X
ply unit
Chapter 7.4.8.1 Air direr; replace drying agent cartridge. Spares kit X X
Indicated by LED display Ultrapac
As necessary
structions source
resources
16 000 h
32 000 h
1 000 h
3 000 h
8 000 h
150 h
500 h
daily
50 h
Laser module Chapter 7.6.1 Check the vacuum pump oil level. Top up Compressor oil G32 X X
Chapter 7.6.2 with oil if necessary.
As necessary
structions source
resources
16 000 h
32 000 h
1 000 h
3 000 h
8 000 h
150 h
500 h
daily
50 h
Laser module Vacuum pump, change oil X
Customer Service
Manufacturer's
Replace turboblower X
As necessary
structions source
resources
16 000 h
32 000 h
1 000 h
3 000 h
8 000 h
150 h
500 h
daily
50 h
Combined Empty dust hopper when 75% fulla) X
cooling and
see operating instructions
filtration unit
Check spark trap. Clean if necessary. X
filtration unit
Clean condensers X
Replace resin X
a) When changing material from steel to aluminum or vice versa, empty dust separator hopper. When cutting aluminum, the dust hopper must be emptied when 25%
full.
As necessary
structions source
resources
16 000 h
32 000 h
1 000 h
3 000 h
8 000 h
150 h
500 h
daily
50 h
Combined Check oil / water trap X
cooling and
filtration unit Inspect seals on doors visually. Replace if X
necessary.
see operating instructions
Combined cooling and
The forms below may be copied and used as maintenance records for
proof of maintenance work carried out. This record must be kept in the
machine logbook.
Maintenance and repair work must be recorded with the date and signa-
ture of the person carrying out the maintenance tasks.
The maintenance record forms the basis for any warranty claims.
50 50
100 50
150 50 / 150
200 50
250 50
300 50 / 150
350 50
400 50
450 50 / 150
500 50 / 500
550 50
600 50 / 150
650 50
700 50
750 50 / 150
800 50
850 50
900 50 / 150
950 50
1 050 50 / 150
1 100 50
1 150 50
1 200 50 / 150
1 250 50
1 300 50
1 350 50 / 150
1 400 50
1 450 50
1 550 50
1 600 50
1 650 50 / 150
1 700 50
1 750 50
1 800 50 / 150
1 850 50
1 900 50
1 950 50 / 150
2 050 50
2 100 50 / 150
2 150 50
2 200 50
2 250 50 / 150
2 300 50
2 350 50
2 400 50 / 150
2 450 50
2 500 50 / 500
2 550 50 / 150
2 600 50
2 650 50
2 700 50 / 150
2 750 50
2 800 50
2 850 50 / 150
2 900 50
2 950 50
3 050 50
3 100 50
3 150 50 / 150
3 200 50
3 250 50
3 300 50 / 150
3 350 50
3 400 50
3 450 50 / 150
3 500 50 / 500
3 550 50
3 600 50 / 150
3 650 50
3 700 50
3 750 50 / 150
3 800 50
3 850 50
3'900 50 / 150
3 950 50
4 050 50 / 150
4 100 50
4 150 50
4 200 50 / 150
4 250 50
4 300 50
4 350 50 / 150
4 400 50
4 450 50
4 550 50
4 600 50
4 650 50 / 150
4 700 50
4 750 50
4 800 50 / 150
4 850 50
4 900 50
4 950 50 / 150
5 050 50
5 100 50 / 150
5 150 50
5 200 50
5 250 50 / 150
5 300 50
5 350 50
5 400 50 / 150
5 450 50
5 500 50 / 500
5 550 50 / 150
5 600 50
5 650 50
5 700 50 / 150
5 750 50
5 800 50
5 850 50 / 150
5 900 50
5 950 50
6 050 50
6 100 50
6 150 50 / 150
6 200 50
6 250 50
6 300 50 / 150
6 350 50
6 400 50
6 450 50 / 150
6 500 50 / 500
6 550 50
6 600 50 / 150
6 650 50
6 700 50
6 750 50 / 150
6 800 50
6 850 50
6 900 50 / 150
6 950 50
7 000 50
7 050 50 / 150
7 100 50
7 150 50
7 200 50 / 150
7 250 50
7 300 50
7 350 50 / 150
7 400 50
7 450 50
7 550 50
7 600 50
7 650 50 / 150
7 700 50
7 750 50
7 800 50 / 150
7 850 50
7'900 50
7 950 50 / 150
Chapter 7
7 Repair
This chapter provides support in locating and rectifying faults. It also con-
tains instructions for carrying out maintenance and making adjustments.
7.1 Introduction
Maintenance staff must be familiar with the technical details of the laser
cutting machine. They must have read and understood all operating in-
structions and safety-related directions in these operating instructions.
Always disconnect the machine from the supply when performing mainte-
nance and repair work. Protect the main power switch with a padlock and
store the key in a place inaccessible to a third party.
WARNING
Electric shock
When working on live (hot) components there is a dan-
ger of electric shock.
Electrical components on which maintenance work is be-
ing performed must be disconnected from the electrical
supply unless otherwise specified.
Check that disconnected components are de-ener-
gized.
Insulate any adjacent live (hot) parts.
CAUTION
Risk of burns
Risk of burns if maintenance and repair work is per-
formed on the gears when they are still at working tem-
perature.
Allow gear units to cool down.
7.2 Troubleshooting
The following section show the step-by-step procedure for determining the
sources of problems.
2. Localizing faults
z Is the fault mechanical or electrical?
z Is it a hardware or software fault?
4. Frequency of fault
Does the fault always occur or do certain events trigger it?
10. Initialization
Shut down the entire system and re-start.
12. Telephone
Call the manufacturer's Customer Services department (see section
7.9 ›Customer service information‹).
Functional test of all EMERGENCY STOP buttons on the laser cutting ma-
chine during an active cutting process.
3. Reset the actuated EMERGENCY STOP button and re-start the laser
cutting machine.
See section 5.2.4 ›Switching on again after an EMERGENCY STOP‹
Follow the procedure below to perform the functional test on the limit
switches on the X-axis and Y-axis.
Y+
A
X+
C
A Cutting table
B Limit switch, position X-
C Limit switch, position Y-
3. Move the axes manually to the end position in question until the limit
switch is actuated (see section 5.7.5 ›Moving the axes manually‹).
5. Once the limits switches have been tested successfully with no faults,
reference the machine.
Follow the procedure below to perform the functional test on the Z-axis
limit switches.
3. Lower the cutting table as far as possible (see section 5.7.8 ›Moving
the cutting table manually‹).
4. Switch Tool mode to Off to turn off the capacitive sensing. See
Chapter 5.7.3 ›Tool mode‹.
6. Move the Z-axis manually to the Z+ limit of travel until the limit
switch is actuated (see section 5.7.5 ›Moving the axes manually‹).
Before cleaning the operator console, shut down the laser cutting machine
and switch off at the main switch.
A B
A Safety door
B Guides
Every 500 operating hours, grease the X-axis linear guides. Lubrication
nipples 1 to 6
6
4
2
Every 3 000 operating hours, grease the Y-axis spindle bearings. Grease
nipple No. 7
Every 3 000 operating hours, grease the X-axis motor bearings. Grease
nipple No. 8
Every 1 000 operating hours, grease the X-axis rack. Grease nipple No. 9
Every 500 operating hours, grease the Y-axis linear guides. Lubrication
nipples 1 to 4
4
3
2
1
Every 150 operating hours, grease the Y-axis recirculating ball drive (spin-
dles and bearings). Grease nipple No. 5
Every 500 operating hours, clean the Z-axis linear guides with kerosene
soaked cloths. Lubricate with chain oil.
A Cutting-head mount
B Seals (O-rings)
7.4.3.9 Bellows
Check all bellows for damage every 500 operating hours. Replace defec-
tive bellows.
Check laser diode and window for soiling daily (visual inspection). Clean
with a dry, clean cloth as necessary.
A Window
B Laser diode
7.4.4.1 Lens
Check lens for dirt, metal splashes or scratched surface daily (visual in-
spection).
Clean or replace lens if necessary (see section 7.5 ›Cleaning or replacing
the lens‹).
A Cutting head
B Water coupling
Check nozzle and copper plate daily for damage and splashes of metal.
Clean or replace if necessary. See section 5.5.4 ›Changing the nozzle‹ for
how to replace nozzle.
A Copper plate
B Jet
Every 50 operating hours, remove the cutting residues from the extrac-
tion chambers.
Every 150 operating hours, check that the flaps on the extraction sec-
tors are working. If the cutting head is located over sector (A) or (B),
the corresponding air extraction sector flap must be open.
Check the extraction duct for deposits every 1 000 operating hours. Clean
if necessary.
Fig. 7.4-17 Extraction duct between machine and the combined cooling and filtration unit (cover re-
moved)
Remove extraction duct and clean internally. Check sealing tape for dam-
age. Replace if necessary.
Every 500 operating hours, grease the cutting table linear guides.
Every 500 operating hours, clean the sheet-feed telescopic rails with kero-
sene soaked cloths. Lubricate with chain oil.
Every 500 operating hours, grease the suction-frame linear guides. Lubri-
cation nipples no. 1 and 2
Detail X
7.4.7 Unloader
Check the gears for oil loss every 1 000 operating hours. If they are losing
oil, contact the manufacturer’s Customer Services department.
A Operation indicator
B Replace drying agent cartridge
C Replace post-filter
D Replace pre-filter
Check the LED display to make sure that the air drier really was the source
of the error message.
The LEDs (B, C and D) indicate whether the pre-filter, post-filter or drying-
agent cartridge needs replacing.
The precise procedure is given in the manufacturer's operating manual, in
the supplier documentation folder. The filter replacement pack can be
obtained from the manufacturer of the laser cutting machine.
After replacing the drying agent cartridge, you must flip the Reset switch
with the machine switched off (resets the last-change counter).
The Reset switch is located behind the LED display cover.
Every 150 operating hours, check the muffleers for deposits (visual in-
spection). If there are powder residues in the pipe, the muffler must be
cleaned.
A Tube
B Hose clip
C Elbow joint
D Muffler
E F G H I
5. Clean parts
z Blow off or wash out mesh sleeve (F).
z Blow off inner sleeve (G).
Every 1 000 operating hours, replace the coarse filter (40 μm).
Every 1 000 operating hours, replace the fine filter (5 μm)
The lens surfaces are specially coated. Damage to the coating reduces the
beam quality.
Special care must therefore be taken when handling optical components.
Damage can occur in the following ways:
particles of dirt burnt on by the laser beam
particles of dirt that leave scratches on the surface during cleaning
erosion of the coating from the lens surface.
CAUTION
Damage to optical components and parts
Improper handling will soil or damage optical compo-
nents.
Always wear disposable gloves when cleaning, replacing
or checking the lens (type: powdered Latex, non-sterile,
EN 455 class 1). Make sure that the work place is clean.
WARNING
Damage to a lens
Take utmost care if a lens is damaged as the lens con-
tains zinc selenide and thorium. If lenses are intact, no
radioactive material can escape. However, if the lens is
badly scratched or thermally damaged, radioactive ma-
terial can escape into the environment. These materials
may cause damage to health if inhaled.
Wear breathing mask and gloves.
Do not stir up dust.
Materials that have come into contact with the broken
lens or lens dust must be cleaned thoroughly with wa-
ter or disposed of as hazardous waste!
Return damaged lenses to the manufacturer of the la-
ser cutting machine.
After cleaning, wash your hands thoroughly under
running water.
7.5.1 Equipment
The following items are required when fitting and removing a lens:
Tool kit (in tool box)
– Lens wrench
– Circular rod
Lubrication set (in tool box)
Cleaning kit (in tool box)
B C
A Lens wrench
B Threaded pin (fixes handle extension)
C Inner piece of circular rod
D Outer piece of circular rod
A
B
A Cutting head
B 5" lens holder (see Fig. 7.5-3)
E
F
G
2. Unscrew fixing screws on lens holder and pull the lens holder out of
the cutting head by hand.
A Lens holder
B Fixing screws
4. Place the lens holder on a clean surface (with the lens nut facing up-
wards).
A Lens wrench
B Handle extension
A Lens holder
B Lens wrench for 5" lens nut
C Lens nut
4. Position the outer part of the circular rod in the lens holder.
A Lens holder
B Outer piece of circular rod
5. Rotate the lens holder through 180° and carefully lift it off. If the lens
does not come away from the lens holder, press down lightly on the
lens from above with a cotton bud (inserted in the inner part of the
circular rod).
Fig. 7.5-8 Using a cotton bud to exert gentle pressure if lens is stuck fast
6. After removal, the clamping ring and the lens are located on the cir-
cular rod. Replace scratched or damaged lens. Clean soiled lens.
A Lens
B Clamping ring
C Outer piece of circular rod
The equipment required for cleaning is kept in the cleaning case. Cleaning
instructions are placed in the lid of the cleaning case.
A B C D E F
G H I J K
Light soiling means particles that can be removed by blowing them off.
Use air bulb to blow off dirt (dry nitrogen is also allowed). Never use a
blow gun.
If lenses cannot be cleaned adequately using the air bulb, proceed as fol-
lows:
3. Draw the lens cleaning paper slowly and horizontally over the lens,
avoiding smears and leaving a dry clean surface.
Fig. 7.5-14 Draw the lens cleaning paper over the lens.
4. The procedure can be repeated more than once. Use a fresh lens
wipe each time.
5. Use cotton buds to clean the lens surface if soiling is more severe.
The cotton buds must be prepared before use so that they are as soft
as possible for the optical element to be cleaned.
Before using each cotton bud, pull the cotton wool apart slightly with
your fingers and then re-twist in the opposite direction. Wear dispos-
able gloves.
6. Sprinkle lens cleaner (acetone) on a clean cotton bud and clean the
lens for no longer than 30 seconds, working from the inside out.
Only exert gentle pressure on the surface of the lens. Turn the cotton
bud steadily about its longitudinal axis so as to remove as much dirt
as possible.
7. Finally, to remove any smears, clean the lens again using lens clean-
ing paper as described in step 2 and step 3.
Fig. 7.5-16 Draw the lens cleaning paper over the lens.
If lenses cannot be cleaned adequately using the air bulb, and subsequent
cleaning with acetone does not give a satisfactory result, use acetic acid to
clean the lens surface.
1. Do not perform the cleaning process for longer than 30 seconds. Ap-
ply only light pressure.
Fig. 7.5-17 Lens cleaning using a cotton bud soaked in acetic acid
2. To remove any residual acetic acid or smears, clean the optical ele-
ment using lens cleaning paper and acetone as described in section
7.5.5.2 ›Cleaning in the case of moderate soiling‹ (step 2 and
step 3).
Fig. 7.5-18 Draw the lens cleaning paper over the lens.
Polishing has an abrasive action and is only used when all other cleaning
attempts described in section 7.5.5.1, 7.5.5.2 and 7.5.5.3 have failed to
give the desired result.
CAUTION
Damage to the lens
The polish has an abrasive action and can attack the
lens coating if not used properly.
Polishing the surface of the optical element for too long,
too often or with too high a pressure wears away the op-
tical coating. This modifies the properties of the coating,
identifiable by a change in color of the surface of the
lens.
Polish the lens surface for no more than 30 seconds.
Perform no more than 2 polishing operations.
Avoid exerting high pressure.
2. Sprinkle a few drops of the lens polish onto a cotton wool pad (eye
make-up remover pad).
3. Move the cotton pad carefully over the surface, using only the pres-
sure of its own weight and making circular movements, for not long-
er than 30 seconds.
Do not let the polish dry onto the surface of the lens.
4. Soak a fresh cotton pad (make-up remover pad) with de-ionized wa-
ter and use it to remove the polish carefully. Repeat this process with
a fresh cotton ball, including the edge of the optical element in the
action.
5. Moisten a fresh cotton bud with acetic acid. Use this to remove any
polish still remaining by cleaning from the inside out with circular
movements (see Fig. 7.5-17).
7. Moisten a fresh cotton bud with acetone. Wipe the cotton bud in
overlapping movements gently over the surface of the lens until all
polish residues have been loosened.
Fig. 7.5-20 Draw the lens cleaning paper over the lens.
The lens holder is different depending on the focal length of the cutting
head. Note the engraving (5") when assembling.
2. Place clamping ring with O-ring, right side up, on the circular rod.
A O-ring
B Clamping ring
C Outer piece of circular rod
Tab. 7.5-1 Clamping ring and lens located on the circular rod
4. Slide the lens holder over the prepared package and push it in as far
as the end stop.
5. Turn the lens holder through 180° and remove the circular rod.
6. Grip the lens holder firmly in one hand. With the other hand, use the
lens wrench to screw in the lens nut, applying continuous force to
tighten.
E Lens holder
F Lens wrench for 5" lens nut
G Lens nut
The clamping ring is tensioned correctly when the four slits are closed (see
Fig. 7.5-24).
The lens holder is different depending on the focal length of the cutting
head. Note the engraving (5") when assembling.
A Cutting head
B Lens holder
C Fixing screws on the lens holder
3. Slide the lens holder into the cutting head by hand until it reaches
the second O-ring.
6. Tighten the fixing screws on the lens holder using a ball-end screw
driver.
7. Insert the cutting head in the Z-axis and center the nozzle (see sec-
tion 5.5.5 ›Centering the nozzle‹).
After cleaning or fitting a new lens, the focus reference setting must be re-
measured. This is done by cutting a test part.
Fig. 7.5-26 Test part for measuring the focus reference setting
80 mm
1 000 mm
500 mm
3. Load a residual sheet onto the cutting table. See Fig. 7.5-27 for min-
imum dimensions.
5. Adjust the focal position up and down in steps of 0.5 mm (in total
± 3 mm).
6. Cut a part after each adjustment. Note the focal position on the re-
spective part.
7. Assess the optimum focal position by looking at the cut surface (see
section 9.9 ›Cut evaluation‹).
6 - 00 Good
6 - 05 Good
6 - 10 Excellent
6 - 15 Good
Check the oil level at the level indicator every 150 operating hours.. The
oil level must lie between the two markings on the level indicator. Top up
with oil if necessary.
A Laser module
B Vacuum pump
C Level indicator
Always use the compressor oil G32 supplied (order code 1973601).
Instructions for use and the safety data sheet are kept in the Supplier
documentation folder.
B
A
A Vacuum pump
B Cap
C Level indicator
1. Shut down the laser cutting machine and switch off at the main pow-
er switch.
CAUTION
Handling gas bottles
Make sure that you replace bottles carefully and cleanly
to avoid dirt entering the gas pipeline.
Secure gas bottles in place.
Always screw on safety caps to unconnected bottles be-
ing stored.
Close bottle valves before handling.
Always open stop valves slowly.
Observe guidelines for handling gas.
WARNING
Risk of explosion
Do not oil or grease oxygen connections.
This could lead to an explosion from a chemical reaction.
Never completely empty gas bottles. Always return the bottles with a
residual pressure of at least 1 atmosphere above atmospheric pressure.
The cutting process is stopped if the cutting gas runs low. An error mes-
sage is shown on the operator console.
The cutting process is stopped and the laser excitation is switched off if
the laser gas runs low. An error message is shown on the operator con-
sole.
Also signaled by the indicator lamp on the laser module (see section
4.1.1 ›Indicator lamp‹).
A B
D D
F
E E
CAUTION
Eye injuries from swirling
dirt particles
The cutting-gas cylinders are under pressure (200 bar).
Always wear safety goggles when blowing off a valve.
1. Check that the stop valve (D) to the full bottle is closed.
2. Open the cylinder valve on the new cylinder briefly to blow out dirt
from the valve.
8. Remove the empty bottle from the cabinet and fit the protective cap.
Insert new bottle and secure in place.
A B
A Laser module
B Combined cooling and filtration unit
C Laser gas bottle
B C
A H
F
G
If the white indicator lamp is flashing, the pressure in the laser gas bottle
has dropped to 2 bar. An error message is shown on the operator console.
Finish working through a cutting plan already in progress and then change
the laser-gas bottle.
CAUTION
Eye injuries from swirling
dirt particles
The laser gas cylinders are under pressure (200 bar).
Always wear safety goggles when blowing off a valve.
A B C
E D
A Bottle valve
B Hexagonal nut
C Stop valve
D Purge valve
E Cap nut
F Protective cap
G Safety chain
5. Unscrew cylinder pressure reducer from bottle valve. Hex nut (B) SW
32 mm
B H C
A
E D
A Bottle valve
B Hexagonal nut
C Stop valve
D Purge valve
E Cap nut
F Protective cap
G Safety chain
H Pressure gage (operating pressure)
5. Screw cylinder pressure reducer onto the bottle valve. Hex nut (B)
SW 32 mm
8. Purge bottle pressure regulator to remove any air that may have en-
tered when changing the bottle.
z Slowly open bottle valve (A) briefly and re-close again immediate-
ly.
z Slowly open purge valve (D) briefly to release the pressure, and
re-close again immediately. There must be minimum residual
pressure.
9. Repeat step 8 at least five times. Close the purge valve (D) after
purging.
After changing the laser gas bottle, the laser module must be
calibrated (see section 5.8.2.1 ›Calibrating the optical pow-
er‹).
Circuit diagrams are held in the Equipment diagram folder, and drawings
in the Spare parts catalog.
Chapter 8
8 Disposal
8.1 Introduction
8.2 Disposal
8.2.1 Packing
Metals and plastics must be separated and taken for recycling or disposal.
Dismantle the machine and electrical controls and provide for correct dis-
posal.
Chapter 9
9 Cutting technology
When designing the parts to be cut the following guidelines should be ob-
served. This can greatly simplify manufacture.
The width of the cutting kerf is a function of the focal length and the sheet
thickness. The width cannot be altered. However, the tool radius cutting
parameter can be used to compensate for it (to guarantee dimensional
tolerances).
Sheet thickness 1 3 5 8
in [mm]
In laser cutting, the cut face does not lie exactly square to the sheet sur-
face. Per 10 mm of sheet thickness, the cut plane can be up to 0.1 mm
out of square.
10 mm
0.1 mm 0.1 mm
0.1 mm
10 mm
The above geometries (Fig. 9.2-1 and Fig. 9.2-2) result from the selected
cutting process and cannot be altered.
The orthogonality is assessed according to DIN EN ISO 9013 (Classifica-
tion of thermal cuts).
As a rule, the orthogonality with laser cutting is significantly better than
with plasma cutting or thermal cutting.
The roughness of the cut surface increases with increasing material thick-
ness.
As a general guide, roughness values of tolerance class 2 as per
DIN EN ISO 9013 are achieved with laser cutting.
The roughness of the cut surface can be influenced by changing the cut-
ting parameters.
The following diagrams (Fig. 9.2-3, Fig. 9.2-4 and Fig. 9.2-5) show a
simple summary. For more precise information, measurements must be
carried out on the actual workpiece.
Fig. 9.2-3 Guide values for structural steel with Laser 2200
Mean roughness Rz in [μm]
I
B
II
Fig. 9.2-4 Guide values for rust and acid resistant steel with Laser 2200
Always avoid acute contours in laser cutting. It is far simpler to cut a radi-
us of 1 ... 2 mm, for example, when changing direction. This has the fol-
lowing advantages:
corners do not burn
time saving thanks to continuous process,
clean laser part
reduced risk of injury by the part.
... 4 5 ... 6 8
The radii can be set to be greater than the minimum values in the table. If
the design does not allow for a radius, the corner is meant to be pointed.
Radii smaller than 0.8 mm are more difficult to manufacture than pointed
corners.
Parts quality may suffer or parts may be rejected if radii are less than the
minimum radii.
Common cut edges are not possible. The minimum parts separation for a
reliable process is 10 mm. See section 9.3.3 ›Minimum parts separation‹
A hole enables the part to be hung for painting. Care should be taken that
these holes are made near the edge of the workpiece, so that hooks can
be inserted easily.
On the edge faces of sheets, deformation of the edges can occur due to
compression of the material during bending. A corner relief must therefore
be cut when:
The face needs to lie flat
A slot will accommodate a flat plate after bending
r t
9.2.10 Cut-outs
For limbs bent together or offset limbs, a relief is provided in the corner.
Radius r = sheet thickness
Fig. 9.2-8 Corner relief for limbs bent against each other
50 x
Holes and slots located too close to the bent edge are deformed during
bending. If the minimum limb length cannot be achieved even with a
smaller bottom tool, a strain-relief slot must be cut.
A Strain-relief cut
B Bend edge
In profiles with discontinuous limbs, the edge must be set back by at least
1.5 × sheet thickness s.
correct incor-
1.5 × s
9.2.14 Connections
Examples
Examples
laser engraved
laser engraved
The minimum distance from the sheet edge for a reliable process is
10 mm. The distance should not be set lower than this.
X+
10 mm
10 mm 10 mm
The minimum distance from the severance cut for a reliable process is
10 mm. The distance should not be set lower than this.
10 mm
10 mm
X+
The minimum parts separation for a reliable process is 10 mm. The dis-
tance should not be set lower than this.
10 mm
10 mm
Parts quality may suffer or parts may be rejected if hole diameters are
less than the minimum hole diameters.
Oxygen O2 Nitrogen N2
4.0 2.00 ⎯
5.0 2.50 ⎯
6.0 3.00 ⎯
8.0 4.00 ⎯
5.0 2.50 ⎯
6.0 3.00 ⎯
8.0 ⎯ ⎯
Parts quality may suffer or parts may be rejected if web widths are less
than the minimum web widths.
x x
Oxygen O2 Nitrogen N2
4.0 8.00 ⎯
5.0 10.00 ⎯
6.0 12.00 ⎯
8.0 16.00 ⎯
5.0 6.00 ⎯
6.0 8.00 ⎯
8.0 ⎯ ⎯
Laser cutting
In the fusion cutting process the work piece is melted locally and the melt
is blown out by a gas jet (nitrogen N2). The material is only transported in
the liquid or molten phase, which is why the process is called fusion cut-
ting.
A
C
A Laser beam
B Approximate location of the focal point
C Upper face of sheet
D Lower face of sheet
Characteristics:
A very pure, inert cutting gas is supplied to the laser beam, which ejects
the melted material from the cutting gap, but does not itself participate in
the cutting process.
Laser fusion cutting is suitable for producing oxide-free cuts in ferrous
materials.
Laser gas cutting differs from laser fusion cutting by the use of oxygen as
cutting gas. The interaction of oxygen with the heated metal causes a re-
action that heats up the material even more.
Thanks to this effect, speeds can be achieved when cutting structural steel
that are much greater than for fusion cutting in sheet thicknesses from
approx. 6 mm upwards.
B
C
A Laser beam
B Approximate location of the focal point
C Upper face of sheet
D Lower face of sheet
Characteristics:
However, this process can lead to diminished cut quality compared to fu-
sion cutting. The result may be wider cuts, increased surface roughness,
deeper heat affected zones and diminished cut edge quality. The cut edge
oxidizes heavily.
Oxygen cutting is critical when cutting fine contours and acute geometries
(risk of burn-off). However, the amount of heat input can be limited by
pulsing.
With laser sublimation cutting, the material is vaporized directly in the cut,
without a liquid phase.
Process parameters
for
The zone in which this process occurs is known as the cutting front or cut
front. The laser power applied at the cutting front must heat up the mate-
rial to the temperature required for phase transition of the material to
melt and vapor.
The cutting front is a practically perpendicular surface heated and melted
by the absorbed laser beam.
In laser gas cutting, this melt zone is heated up further by the flow of
oxygen blown into the kerf and reaches temperatures close to the boil-
ing point of the material. This causes strong vaporization and ablation
of the material. The jet of cutting gas is used simultaneously to blow
out molten material from the underside of the workpiece.
In fusion cutting the gas blows out the molten material and protects the
kerf from oxidization.
The molten zone progresses in the direction of cutting. This ensures a con-
tinuous kerf.
Many important processes in laser cutting occur in this zone. Analyzing
these processes provides important information on laser cutting. For ex-
ample, it is possible to estimate cutting speed and explain the formation
of characteristic striation marks.
Gas type
Gas purity
Gas pressure
Nozzle diameter
Nozzle geometry
Gas pressure and nozzle geometry affect the roughness of the cut edge
and the creation of whiskers.
Cutting gas consumption depends on the nozzle diameter and the gas
pressure.
For low-pressure cutting applications gas pressure is up to 5 bar, and
up to 20 bar in the high-pressure range.
The conventional cutting nozzle has a circular, conical aperture.
The distance between the nozzle orifice and the workpiece surface must
be as small as possible. The smaller the distance, the greater the vol-
ume of gas actually entering the kerf. Clearance distances typically
range from 0.5 to 1.5 mm.
9.5 Programming
Optimum programming makes the cutting process far simpler and reduces
manufacturing times while retaining maximum part quality. It is therefore
important that the programmer is familiar with the laser cutting machine
and exchanges experiences with the operating personnel.
A Select material
B Select sheet thickness
C Select laser cutting machine
D Select technology table
A column is reserved for each material type and thickness. In the col-
umns, the technologies and the ranges of validity are defined.
Thickness 8
Lead-in 1 up to and including hole diameter 5.5
Piercing open contours Pulsed
Lead-in 1 settings
Type Straight orthogo-
nal
Length 4
Radius 0
Operating mode Follow-on element
Piercing Pulsed
Standard lead-in settings
Type Straight with arc
Length 8
Radius 1
Operating mode Follow-on element
Piercing normal
Lead-out settings
Type Directly on con-
tour
Length 0
Radius 0
Cutting
Conditions
Pulsed up to and including hole diameter 5.5
Process macro 1 up to and including hole diameter 30
Process macro 2 up to and including hole diameter 0
Process macro 3 up to and including hole diameter 0
Process macro 4 up to and including hole diameter 0
Process macro 5 up to and including hole diameter 0
Tool correction Normala)
Operating mode for open contours Cutting
= Selection
Fig. 9.5-2 Example of using technology table for structural steel, 8 mm thick
Detail X
Detail Y
Setting Meaning
The lead-ins will always be made as long as specified and must be placed
accordingly.
Piercing causes the sheet to heat up very strongly. Careful positioning of
piercing points and adequate lead-in lengths can help prevent heat build-
up.
Fig. 9.5-4 Good choice of lead-in position with additional radius lead-in
The pierce hole is generally located outside of the contour (see Fig. 2 and
Fig. 3). The path between the pierce and the contour is referred to as the
lead-in line or lead-in for short.
A change in direction of the laser beam between the end of the lead-in and
contour, and the end of a cut, are visible on the workpiece as an irregular-
ity in the cut edge.
With small inside contours it is important that the heat input during pierc-
ing can flow away before cutting begins. The lead-in line must not be pro-
grammed in tight corners and should be designed with the largest possible
angle to the contour. This helps the heat to flow away more easily.
One process macro is available (macro 1). The Bysoft technology wizard
automatically assigns process macro 1 to small contours (based on the
technology table). The cutting parameters are adapted accordingly.
9.5.5.1 Strategy A
The sheet segment to be cut is separated from the main sheet by a con-
tinuous severance cut at the start of the cutting plan. Then the parts on
the sheet segment are cut.
C A
B
Y+
X+
A Sheet
B Cut sheet segment
C Continuous severance cut
9.5.5.2 Strategy B
Parts in the sheet segment to be cut extend into the main sheet. This
means that, depending on the parts geometry, more parts may be nested
on the sheet. It also reduces the size of off-cuts.
The severance cut is divided into several steps. These are performed be-
fore cutting the parts. The sheet segment is severed from the main sheet
as the parts are cut.
Not all parts are suitable for using machining strategy B. If it is difficult to
separate the sheet segment from the main sheet when the cutting table is
lowered, machining strategy A must be used. This may be the case, for
A
C
Y+
X+
A Sheet
B Cut sheet segment
C Discontinuous severance cut
The result of the cutting-time calculation is only a rough guide to the ex-
pected process time on the laser cutting machine. The effective process
time can differ significantly from this however.
A Text Engraving
B Hole ∅ 4 mm Pulsed piercing, pulsed cutting
C Banana hole Pulsed piercing, cutting with process
macro 1
D Gear teeth Pulsed piercing, cutting with process
macro 1
E Outer contour Pulsed piercing, CW cutting
Differences in alloys
Tolerance variation in the sheet thickness
Differing nature of surfaces
Different composition of material
Large temperature differences in the material used
(reference temperature = +20 °C)
The following conditions must be met in order to obtain a good cut quality
by adjusting the main parameters:
laser cutting machine is in a fault-free condition
lens in cutting head must be in perfect condition (see section
7 ›Repair‹)
cutting head and nozzle must match the details given in the respective
cutting parameters
Before a new material is cut, a cutting test must be carried out. If prob-
lems with the cutting quality occur in this test, they can be rectified by ad-
justing the original cutting parameters.
When optimizing, change only one cutting parameter at a time and then
observe the effect on the cut part (see also section 9.9 ›Cut evaluation‹).
Follow the order given below.
The advanced functions contain the cutting parameters for CW, Macro
and Pulsed.
The focal position is the position of the point where the laser beam reach-
es its smallest diameter and thus its highest power density.
The laser beam is focussed by the lens in the cutting head. Depending on
the material being cut, the focal point is located:
On the workpiece (A)
In the workpiece (B)
Below the workpiece (C)
a) Information on the laser cutting methods can be found in section 9.4 ›Laser cutting‹.
A A
B B
Turning counter-clockwise moves Turning clockwise moves the fo-
the focal point lower. cal point higher.
A Setting Ring
B Focal position
The focal position alters with the condition of the lens. Soiling or an old
lens shifts the focal position upwards. This shift can reach several millime-
ters. It is therefore important to clean the lens regularly.
See section 9.9 ›Cut evaluation‹ for details of the effect of the
focal position on different materials.
This parameter defines the feed rate during cutting in continuous opera-
tion (CW).
By reducing the feed rate by 10…20% the quality or process reliability can
be greatly improved in almost all cases.
See section 9.9 ›Cut evaluation‹ for details of the effect of the
cutting feed rate on various materials.
This parameter defines the laser power during cutting in continuous oper-
ation (CW).
See section 9.9 ›Cut evaluation‹ for details of the effect of the
laser power on various materials.
2. Select the appropriate parameter for the cutting gas pressure (Gas
type 1, Gas type 2 or Gas type 3) and increase or decrease the
value by turning the rotary knob.
The change will be shown in [%].
See section 9.9 ›Cut evaluation‹ for details of the effect of the
gas pressure on various materials.
Microjoints prevent cut parts from tilting up or dropping down. The micro-
joints are automatically inserted by the control system (see section
9.7.10 ›Microjoints‹). The width of the microjoints can be varied.
The tool radius is used to alter the position of the kerf relative to the con-
tour. The tool radius equals half the width of the kerf.
1…5 mm 0.10 mm
6…8 mm 0.15 mm
Usage
To optimize the dimensional accuracy for precision parts.
If the tool radius is increased, the outer contour becomes larger and the
inner contours smaller (assuming that the tool correction was correctly
programmed in Bysoft).
When the tool radius is decreased, the outer contour becomes smaller
and the inner contour larger.
2. Select the parameter Tool radius and increase or decrease the value
by turning the rotary knob.
The change will be shown in [mm].
The Pulse width, piercing can only be changed for pulsed piercing. CW
piercing cannot be changed.
Increasing the Pulse width, piercing parameter increases the amount of
energy input during piercing. This speeds up piercing but increases the
piercing hole size.
With larger pierced holes, a large amount of material from the piercing is
deposited on the sheet. This can lead to problems with feeding the sheet.
The Pulse width, piercing parameter must therefore be optimized so
that the pierced hole appears as shown in Fig. 9.9-14.
Fig. 9.6-12 Fine engraving on structural steel with reduced laser power
Fig. 9.6-13 Deep engraving on structural steel with increased laser power
This parameter is used to define the laser power for vaporizing protective
films from rust and acid-resistant steel.
This parameter is only active when Vaporization has been programmed in
Bysoft.
The default parameters are given for metric sheet thicknesses. Countries
using different dimensional units (e.g. inches, Gauge No.) must use the
next closest metric cutting parameters as shown in Tab. 9.6-3.
Sheet thickness
1.0 0.040 19
1.5 0.060 16
2.0 0.074 14
2.5 0.104 12
3.0 0.125 11
4.0 0.160 8
5.0 0.187 7
6.0 0.250 ⎯
8.0 0.312 ⎯
F H
A B C D E G I
Sheet thickness
1 1.0 mm 4 4.0 mm
1.5 1.5 mm 5 5.0 mm
2 2.0 mm 6 6.0 mm
2.5 2.5 mm 8 8.0 mm
3 3.0 mm
Cutting gas
N2 Nitrogen
O2 Oxygen
Air Compressed air
Additional information
This material can be cut with oxygen to produce good quality cuts. The la-
ser is operated in CW mode.
If oxygen is used as the cutting gas the cut face is slightly oxidized.
Complex contours and holes (diameter smaller than material thickness)
are cut in pulsed mode. This prevents burn-off on acute-angled corners
and thin webs.
The higher the carbon content of the steel, the greater the hardening of
the cut edge and the more sharp corners are burnt off.
Sheets with higher alloy content are more difficult to cut than sheets
with low alloy content.
An oxidized or sand-blasted surface will produce a far poorer cut quali-
ty.
Colored marks on the surface of the sheet have a negative effect on the
cutting result.
Use only fully killed steel where possible. Contaminants in un-killed
steel significantly impairs the cutting result. Dress rolling and internal
stresses also influence the cutability.
Structural steel is also cut using nitrogen (N2) for the following reasons:
Oxide-free cut edge. This is particularly important if the parts are to be
powder coated, varnished or painted. This guarantees that the coating
adheres to the cut face. This is not guaranteed on a cut edge oxidized
by oxygen (O2).
Trouble-free cutting of high-alloy steels, which cannot be cut to a good
quality using oxygen.
Higher cutting speeds. Much faster cutting is possible up to a thickness
of 1.5 mm.
Reducing the heat input.
Fig. 9.7-1 Example: Gear teeth in structural steel, thickness 3 mm, cut using nitrogen
Optimum cut quality thanks to strong cooling effect of nitrogen. The pro-
duction time is only 1/4 of the pulsed time using oxygen.
In pulsed cutting the laser is switched on and off at short intervals. The
advantage of this is that, on average, there is less heat input to the mate-
rial. Higher quality is achieved in small holes and difficult shapes.
Because the cutting and piercing process is interrupted during the pulse
interval, the cutting and piercing speed is slower than for continuous CW
cutting and piercing.
A
B C D
Holes and openings smaller than sheet thickness, e.g. a hole with
∅3 mm in a steel sheet, thickness 6 mm
Cutting sharp tips and corners without radii
There are two ways of defining whether pulsed mode is used to cut/pierce
contours:
Automatically: using the Technology Wizard. This contains the most im-
portant rules on how to machine which contour (exception: gear teeth
are not automatically recognized).
This has the advantage of shortening the programming time.
Manually ⎯ the programmer selects the individual contours based on
personal experience of the machine.
If only portions of the contour are cut pulsed, e.g. the teeth in the follow-
ing figures, the programming must be carried out so that there as few
changeover points as possible (A).
B B
A
A A
B B
C C
A
C C
A A A A
B B B B
A Changeover point
B CW cutting
C Pulsed cutting
The following points should be noted when cutting rust and acid-resistant
steel.
Cutting with nitrogen to achieve oxide-free and burr-free cut edges for
post-processing without further treatment.
An oiled sheet surface improves piercing without reducing the machin-
ing quality (see Fig. 9.9-17).
Only cut sheets that have a protective film on one side. The
protective film must always lie uppermost during cutting.
A Cutting grate
B Sheet
C protective film
The parts can be cut directly using the optimized parameters for rust and acid-
resistant steel with protective film (additional information: PLASTIC FOIL).
The protective film is only vaporized on the lead-in cuts.
Ensure that the correct nozzle is used.
The protective film comes away from the sheet in places. Process reliability is
not guaranteed using the optimized cutting parameters (as used in example 1).
In a first pass, the protective film is vaporized on the lead-in cuts and over
the whole parts contour. This is performed at maximum machine speeds.
The parts are actually cut in the second pass using the standard cutting pa-
rameters for rust and acid-resistant steel. These parameters include the pa-
rameters for film vaporization.
The protective film must be removed by hand before cutting. The standard cut-
ting parameters for rust and acid-resistant steel are used for cutting the parts.
Disadvantage: the sheet surface is not protected.
B
A
A Postprocessor 2 tab
B Selection of vaporization type
Laserguard 3100H5 and Laserquard 3100H3 Light from the Nitto Denko
company, which have the following excellent properties for laser cutting:
Excellent adhesion during cutting. No need to pre-vaporize the protec-
tive film before cutting.
Parts look cleanly cut without black discoloration around the edges.
No fraying of the protective film near the edges.
High tear strength when detaching from the sheet (even after a bend-
ing operation)1)
Minimal adhesive residues on the sheet
1) This is a very important property. Approximately 80% of parts cut with a laser undergo
subsequent bending.
The default parameters refer to the most commonly used alloy (AlMg3)
with material number 3.2323. This alloy is also good for bending.
The cutting gas employed is nitrogen.
With suitable adjustment to the focal position, feed rate, laser power
and gas pressure, almost all aluminum alloys can be cut. To begin with,
the default parameters (3.2323) should always be used.
Adjust the cutting parameters based on the information given in section
9.6.3 ›Procedure for optimizing the cutting parameters‹. Compare the
cutting results achieved with the figures in section 9.9 ›Cut evaluation‹.
Laser cutting using compressed air is a mixture of fusion cutting with ni-
trogen (N2) and gas cutting with oxygen (O2).
However, since air contains more nitrogen than oxygen, the cutting be-
havior is more like fusion cutting with nitrogen (N2).
For occasional cutting with compressed air, this can be obtained from the
gas supplier (for specification, see section 3.14.2 ›Compressed air quali-
ty‹). The price in this case, however, is often higher than for nitrogen from
a tank. There is thus no production cost advantage.
A suitable solution for the low-cost production of compressed air is an as-
sembly with compressor and filter units capable of producing the required
volume and quality of compressed air (for specification, see section
3.14.2 ›Compressed air quality‹). This system should preferably be placed
immediately adjacent to the laser cutting machine. It has its own line, di-
rectly to the connection point on the laser cutting machine. The gas sup-
plier or the manufacturer's Customer Services is available in the event of
problems.
Standard compressors and in-house compressed air supplies are not suit-
able for laser cutting. These installation do not deliver the required air pu-
rity.
9.7.8 Engraving
In the following example, the individual sections are cut using different
technologies (process macro 1 and CW).
B A B
A A
B A B
9.7.10 Microjoints
Parts must not tip up on end, otherwise there will be problems removing
the cut parts using the unloading table. This problem is prevented by mi-
crojoints.
The microjoints are automatically placed in accordance with the rules be-
low.
Rule Description
If the parts in the X and Y directions are larger than 140 mm, no
microjoints are set.
If, despite the rules according to Tab. 9.7-3, cut parts do tip up, additional
microjoints (from Bysoft) must be programmed to secure them. This
need would mainly arise for parts with an offset center of gravity.
A A
A Programmed microjoint
B Common axis of rotation for twisting out the part
9.8 Materials
The cutting result on the work piece is either a clean cut or a frayed cut
edge with a burr. The main factors influencing cut quality are:
Alloy elements
Microstructure
Material surface
Surface treatment
Beam reflection
Thermal conductivity
Melting point
9.8.3 Microstructure
Generally speaking, the finer the grain of the material structure, the bet-
ter the quality of the cut edge.
The surface finish of a sheet has a major impact on cutting results and cut
quality.
Example:
cheap ST52 sheets that have been exposed to weathering.
All these and similar surface treatments usually have a negative impact on
cutting results. Oxygen and e.g. paint react in the kerf during cutting. This
results in a very rough, frayed cut. Another problem is the difference in
layer thickness in one sheet. Different thicknesses of protective coating
cause errors in the capacitive detection.
Solution:
Piercing splashes adhere less well to oiled surfaces. This means that ca-
pacitative scanning is disrupted less. Oiling can be carried out in a number
of ways:
Purchase oiled sheets
Oil dry sheets by hand
WARNING
Risk of fire
The oil on the sheet surface can be ignited by the laser
beam.
Flammable oils should not be used.
Always use welding protection oil
(MOTOREX PROWELD 264)
The beam reflection from the workpiece surface is dependent on the ma-
terial, surface roughness, focusing and surface treatment. The beam re-
flection is higher for rust and acid-resistant steel, pure aluminum and
aluminum alloys. The higher the reflectance, the more difficult to cut the
material.
Materials with low thermal conductivity require less energy to melt them
than materials with high thermal conductivity.
For example, the power required for stainless steel is less than the values
for structural steel, despite the lower absorption at the process tempera-
ture.
On the other hand, copper, aluminum and brass, for example, conduct
away a large amount of the heat generated by absorption of the laser
beam. The heat is quickly conducted away from the focal point of the laser
beam, making it harder to melt the material at this spot.
Tab. 9.8-2 Guide values for the extent of the heat-affected zone as a function of the base material and
the sheet thickness
5 0.25 0.35 ⎯
6 0.30 0.55 ⎯
8 0.40 ⎯ ⎯
The following images are enlarged up to 10x. This is why striations and ir-
regularities can even be seen on the optimum cuts.
The measures taken can also be extrapolated to other sheet thicknesses
Cut:
Cut:
Fig. 9.9-3 Laser power and gas pressure too low, nozzle diameter too small
Cut:
Cut:
Cut:
Cut:
Cut:
Cut:
Cut:
Cut:
Situation: Severe chips in the cut. Blue flashes in kerf when cut-
ting.
Action: Reduce the gas pressure for cutting (in the figure it is
3 bar too high).
Cut:
Situation: Severe chips in the cut. Blue flashes in kerf when cut-
ting.
Action: Reduce the laser power for cutting.
Cut:
Situation: Fine cut surface in the upper two thirds of the cut sur-
face.
Heavy drag in the lower third of the cutting area.
Hard, difficult to remove burr on the underside of the
sheet.
Action: Set the focal position, cutting further down (in the
figure it is 2 mm too high).
Cut:
Pulsed
piercing:
CW piercing:
CW piercing:
CW piercing:
9.9.5.3 Aluminum
9.10 Troubleshooting
Optimum cut quality can only be achieved if the following conditions are
met:
maintenance as per maintenance schedule
operating resources meet specified requirements
workpiece surface is rust and flake-free (etched, pickled or polished),