Fiber laser cutters are the latest addition to the line of laser cutters.
Before its introduction, CO2 laser cutters were the industrial norm. Their relatively low prices, flexibility, and accuracy make them ideal machines. But things changed quickly with the development of fiber laser technology!
Fiber cutting machines are considered a breakthrough in the metalworks market since they became popular. They’re a type of solid-state cutters that have gained massive popularity in the metal cutting industry. While CO2 cutters utilize gas-liquid, fiber laser cutting machines by prestige equipment utilize a solid gain medium. The laser is produced using a “seed layer” and then amplified inside the glass fiber.
CO2 laser cutters are still in use, but fiber laser cutters are the newer and more efficient technology.
This blog makes a direct comparison between the two common types of cutters for help you make an informed choice.
Stellar Works Of Fiber Laser Cutters
Fiber Laser cutters have been in circulation for a lesser time than CO2 laser cutters, but it has already made some differences:
- Made with significant advancements, the fiber cutting threshold for these cutters is 5 years, making it 4 times faster than CO2 lase, despite a higher initial investment cutter.
- Works at 15kW and higher threshold
- Dynamic and have more comprehensive applications, even outside the metalworks industry.
Uses Of The Different Laser Cutters
USES OF CO2 LASER CUTTERS:
CO2 laser cutters may be old but not useless entirely. They still add a lot of utility have widespread applications.
Despite being an older technology, CO2 laser cutters still have their useful applications:
- Effective for cutting thicker materials.
- Provides faster initial piercing and straight-line cutting, which results in a smoother surface finish.
- Ideal for non-metallic substances like glass, plastics, acrylic, etc.
- Used in food and pharmaceutical packaging, marking plastic items like PVC pipes, circuits, electric components, etc.
USES OF FIBER LASER CUTTERS:
Fiber laser cutters are the newer technology. They provide detailed cuts with extreme efficiency and precision.
Its comparative advantage allows for a broader set of applications:
- Ideal when it comes to high-detailed markings like etching and engraving on metals.
- Minimal focal diameter results in much higher intensity compared to CO2 cutters.
- The higher intensity makes Laser fiber cutters ideal for permanent markings and engravings.
- Used heavily in applications that involve product traceability.
- Sees applications in cleaning surface growths like rust, contaminants, and oxides of paints.
Both Fiber cutting machine and CO2 laser cutters have their uses and are used widely in the respective fields. However, given Fiber laser cutters is the newer technology, it brings many innovations and advantages.
These become visible when one makes a head-to-head comparison of the two cutting technologies.
Advantages Of Fiber Laser Cutters:
Ideal for flat sheets: Fiber laser cutters derive their main advantages while cutting flat sheet metal. It utilizes solid-state design configurations and uses a fiber-to-fiber mechanism which is extremely compact.
Maintenance-free:
An extensive area of advantage with fiber laser cutters is their maintenance-free system. Fiber laser cutting machines have long shelf lives and justify their price points very well. They have at minimum, 100,00 operating hours.
Less power consumption:
Another major advantage is that fiber laser cutters use a lot less power than their CO2 laser counterparts. This is due to the simple fact that fiber lasers are extremely power efficient. For example, a similarly powered fiber laser cutter operates at 18 kW, but its CO2 counterpart will operate at 70 kW.
Better long-term investment:
CO2 laser cutters are cheaper, begin with, and cost a lot less initially. The durability and power consumption of laser fiber cutting machines make them much better for use in the long run.
Better time management:
Fiber laser cutters not only save money and electricity but also save time. Even a lower-powered fiber laser will provide 5x more power density at the focal point.
Better absorption: As fiber lasers have shorter wavelengths, they enjoy 2.5 times more absorption power.
Versatility:
CO2 laser cutters are mainly used for cutting through thicker items. For certain materials like stainless steel, aluminum, and copper materials, fiber laser is the fastest and most economical way, irrespective of thickness.
Nitrogen enhancement:
The speed benefits of fiber laser cutters are maximized when nitrogen is used as the catalyst. The material which melts is removed by nitrogen as fast as the material melts.
Higher profitability:
Given the comparative advantages that fiber laser cutters enjoy over CO2 laser cutters, it adds to the profitability and financial gains of the business. Fiber laser cutting machines have lesser costs per part; combined with better time management, investment per time reduces. CO2 laser cutters are increasing the chance for more work and more significant profit.
Non-reflection of the beam:
Because of its high absorbing nature, fiber laser cutter beams are not reflected by the surface. It is cutting through. CO2 laser cutter reduces costs, power consumption and also makes it faster and safer for workers.
Use of Oxygen:
The recent advancement in ‘beam shaping’ allows fiber laser cutters to utilize oxygen. It results in the broader beam profile, creating wider channels that help to remove the molten materials. With the help of beam shaper technology, fiber lasers can be used efficiently on thicker materials.
Fiber Laser Cutters: What Makes Them Different?
The points above make a strong case for fiber laser cutters over CO2 laser cutters.
There are some unique uses of the newer technology which can’t be done with the older one:
- Fiber laser cutters do not require time to warm up. This saves time, energy and increases the chances of utilizing the additional time.
- Fiber laser cutters do not need beam path maintenance. Therefore, there is no need for beam alignments or mirror or lens cleaning, saving even more time.
- The beam centering of fiber laser cutters is exact and consistent.
CO2 Vs. Fiber Laser Technology: The Ultimate Winner?
It is the battle of new versus old when pitting a fiber laser cutter up against a CO2 laser cutter. Of course, both cutters have their uses, but fiber laser cutters are way ahead when it comes to a head-to-head comparison.
Fiber laser cutters make a strong case for it to be the preferred choice despite a higher initial investment. Its time efficiency, power efficiency, accuracy ultimately all add up to greater profit margins.
Many suppliers have fiber laser cuttings for sale frequently. An example is the Amada laser cutting machines for sale at prestige equipment. The brand provides excellent value for its prices and is great for all types of enterprises.
For large and small businesses alike, fiber laser cutting machines are the ideal options for both the present and future.
