We have extensive experience in metal tube processing, utilizing both fixed and rotational laser head cutting machines. Our expertise covers various materials, cutting geometries, and processing techniques, ensuring optimal manufacturability. Additionally, we focus on maintaining cost efficiency while delivering high-quality results.
Laser tube cutting machines, as CNC (Computer Numerical Control) devices, are highly efficient tools for cutting tubes and pipes. Compared to traditional methods, laser cutting offers several key advantages:
While laser tube cutting offers significant benefits, it also has some drawbacks:
Let’s take a look at how the laser tube cutter cuts stainless steel tubes.
Notice that it has three chucks and material trays for loading and unloading. Watch how they move.
At Boyan, we utilize laser tube cutting machines with a rotational laser head to process complex 5-axis (or so called as 3d) tube laser cutting. Our capabilities extend beyond simple tube cutting, allowing us to create various hole shapes and cutouts as well.
Processable Materials: We typically work with steel and stainless steel pipes. For materials like aluminum and copper, the high reflectivity of these metals poses challenges for laser cutting. This not only increases processing difficulty but also risks damaging the laser head. To improve workability, we use auxiliary gases, though these materials come at a higher processing cost.
Processable Shapes: We can cut a variety of shapes, including rectangular tubes (square tubes), round tubes, oval tubes, as well as angles, H-shaped steel, and U-shaped steel. As long as the cross-sectional dimensions fit within the capacity of the machine’s clamping system, we can handle the cutting tasks.
Cutting Length: The maximum length of a single workpiece can reach up to 6 meters, allowing us to accommodate long tube sections and cater to diverse project needs.
At Boyan, we ensure flexibility and precision in our laser cutting services, making us a reliable partner for various fabrication requirements.
Firstly, a laser tube cutting machine (even without a rotational laser head) can achieve complex cut surfaces, unlike saws, which are limited to producing flat cut surfaces. With the programmable laser head, it’s possible to cut intricate geometries, making it ideal for parts with non-standard shapes or curved edges. This enhances the flexibility and precision of the cutting process, offering a significant advantage over traditional mechanical cutting methods.
One of the most significant advantages of the rotational laser head is the ability to create beveled cuts. Unlike traditional cutting methods, the cut does not have to be perpendicular to the tube’s axis; it can be made at an angle.
However, it’s important to note that the angle of the bevel should not exceed 45°, as the maximum tilt angle of the laser head is typically 45°.
This feature is particularly beneficial for tubes with some thickness. For example, when two tubes need to intersect at an angle and be welded together, a beveled cut can eliminate gaps in the joint, ensuring a tighter and more precise fit.
Angled holes are another feature that is difficult to achieve with other methods, but can be easily and efficiently done using a rotational laser head.
The axis of the hole can be tilted at any angle, offering flexibility for various applications. However, just like with beveled cutting, the maximum tilt angle for the hole should not exceed 45°, due to the limitations of the laser head’s range.
This capability allows for more precise and versatile hole placement, especially in complex tube and profile structures.
This video demonstrates the process of cutting angled holes.
Sometimes, there is a need to create weld bevels or perform counterboring on holes, which can be achieved through multiple cutting passes. While this approach increases processing time (effectively doubling the time required), it remains more cost-effective compared to other machining methods.
However, it’s important to note that the surface will have densely arranged cutting marks, as seen in the image below. In most applications, this surface finish is still acceptable, offering a balance between efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
By cutting a notch into square or rectangular tubes, and then bending the tube, the notch can be neatly eliminated in the process, allowing for a smooth weld joint to form the bend. This method offers several advantages:
Considerations:
If you’re looking for precision and flexibility in tube cutting, our rotational laser head technology is here to help. We can handle complex cuts, beveled edges, and angled holes with ease.
Contact us today for a quote tailored to your needs. We’re ready to assist with your project.