Friday, August 28, 2020

10 Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Machines

 Laser-cutting is a method in metal fabrication. Various industries like manufacturing, health, aerospace, electronics, etc. use laser-cutting. If you work in any of these industries, you will require a laser-cutting machine for making your work effortless. It is a quick and efficient way to cut and engrave objects. Moreover, as compared to other cutting equipment, a laser machine is cleaner, less deburring, reduces waste, and enables you to make an accurate cut.

Investing in a laser machine can be a crucial decision for your business. There are several questions that come to your mind when you make such a major purchase. Therefore, you would want to make sure that your choice is accurate. In this post, we have answered some commonly raised questions by buyers before purchasing a laser machine.

1. To cut which materials I can use a laser machine?

 

This is a commonly asked question. Laser machines are known for their ability to permanently cut many materials. Once you purchase the machine you will be able to use it for the following materials: 

 

  • Wood- it includes furniture, cabinets, custom floorings, personalized gifts, etc.

  • Meta- metal in machine parts, jewelry, automobile applications, metal-coated awards, and more

  • Fabric- applications for fabric cutting used in fashion designing or interior design

  • Glass- awards, gifts, furniture, jars, bottles, etc

 

You can even utilize the machine for rubber, plastic, acrylic, brick and stone, and so on. Regardless of the materials you work with, machines by Mitsubishi Machine Parts, Trumpf nozzles and Trumpf Lasers can handle every requirement perfectly. 

 

2. What size of the machine is best for me?

 

Choosing the correct size is important as they determine the ease of cutting ability. But the size of the machine is based on your needs and plans. However, bigger machines will give more opportunities and options to cut and engrave as compared to a smaller one. They enable you to finish more tasks at once.

 

3. How much space will I require for the machine?

 

The next answer that people want after deciding the size of the machine is how much space is needed to accommodate the machine. Well, the answer is that space depends on the size and design of the machine. Buyers are choosing space-saving machines from manufactures like Trumpf who have machines that reduce space requirement. 

 

Note that for better functioning, keep the laser machine in a space that has a connection with outdoors for convenient ventilation.

 

4. How much power do I need?

 

Power of the laser is an important consideration. Because the power of the laser determines both the materials you cut and the speed. Usually, higher wattage indicated a powerful laser. However, it depends on the materials that you will be using the machine for. You can choose a standard power laser and then later upgrade as per your needs.

 

5. What is the average cost of a laser machine?

 

The price of the machine varies depending on the model type and your needs. If you have to cut thick materials you will need a higher watt laser and that is expensive as compared to machines used for cutting thin materials. It normally costs $25,000 to $65,000 according to different working sizes and configurations. 

 

6. How much does it cost to run a laser machine?

 

  • Three factors determine the overall cost of the machine:

  • Electricity consumption

  • Consumable parts

  • Maintenance

 

7. Is the machine difficult to learn?

 

Once you have bought the machine, you must also know how to use it. The thought of using a machine might be daunting. But this is not a difficult job because most suppliers like Mitsubishi Machine Parts and Trumpf Nozzles send the team of technicians who assist you get familiar with the machine. Even later, you can solve your queries through the customer support provided.

 

8. Will I get a warranty?

 

When you make such a big investment it is obvious you will look for some warranty. If you do basic research while purchasing the machine, you will find that products of suppliers like Mitsubishi Machine Parts and Trumpf Nozzles come with a warranty.

 

9. How to maintain a laser-cutting machine?

 

Any piece of equipment requires maintenance. Regularly maintaining a laser machine will keep it running smoothly and effectively for a long time. Some tips to maintain your machine:

 

  • Keep replacing fluids for better lubrication

  • Filter the air and oil replacement whenever required

  • Keep checking frequently for the sign of deterioration

  • Clean the machine regularly

  • Check if the gas is dry and clean

  • Do beam quality tests

10. Is the machine safe?

 

Laser machines are secure. If you know how to use them properly and frequently take care of maintenance, there will be no safety issue. 

 

Conclusion:

 

These were the most commonly asked questions on laser machines. We hope to have solved your doubts. One last tip we would like to share- before finalizing the purchase, clearly set your requirements and long-term goals. Research to get the best machines available in the market for your business.


Source: https://altpartsinc.wixsite.com/altpartsinc/single-post/2020/08/28/10-Frequently-Asked-Questions-About-Laser-Machines

Thursday, August 27, 2020

Laser Machines in Electrical Industry

Laser marking is one of the most essential parts of the manufacturing and automotive industry. It helps businesses to keep their products up to the industry trends, help decrease simulating, and develop quality.

There are numerous benefits of laser machines in various industries and the Electrical industry being one of the major industries to leverage its functionalities.

Today in this article we are going to discuss the way laser marking is  useful in engines and electrical appliances.

The major problem with engines is the loss of information when any engine fails. The idea was to install 2D code in the engine case but the major challenge is that it needs many laser marking techniques to mount on the plant.

Let me show you how laser marking is different from other processes for this industry.

Chemical engineering or inkjet processes use inks and chemicals in marking. This has a negative effect on the surroundings and is also costly.

Whereas, laser marking does not use any kind of supplies this makes it reasonable, clean and energy efficient.

The benefit of using a laser machine is that it decreases downtime and extra costs. It is very easy to clean, repair, maintain or replace parts like Precitec spare parts and Trumpf replacement parts.

In fact the marking done by laser machines is permanent and supports the brand and quality of product.

Laser marking provides you with clean processing as it does not need human interference. Whereas, printing techniques lead to burning material by marking.

It is very easy to replace parts of laser machines like Precitec spare parts and Trumpf replacement parts as a part of maintenance.

Laser marking process:

The basic definition is that when the beam comes in contact with the material surface and modifies its features or presentation  —  That is laser marking.

It obtains by moving a low mechanical beam across the material using a technique known staining. This procedure has high contrast marks without harming the material.

Laser machines increase the material temperature which causes oxidation below the surface and turns the material black. It also applies low temperatures to metal to make the surface tough. While doing all these things the surface of the material remains undamaged.

Let’s understand how laser marking is different from laser etching and engraving:

  • It is a rare process and not all places need laser marking services.
  • Another name for laser marking is laser dark marking or laser coloration. And charring for plastic materials and strengthening of metals.
  • There are three types of laser marking i.e. carbon migration, annealing and coloration
  • In medical industry for titanium parts and stainless steel laser marking is common
  • Laser marking is perfect for barcodes, QR codes, UID codes, logos or any other needs.
  • Easy to maintain and replace its parts like Precitec spare parts and Trumpf replacement parts.
  • Now, let’s talk about the way it is useful in the electrical industry.

With the advancement in society, the global lighting industry is growing day by day. Led bulbs dominate the worldwide light market. Laser marking machines become an indispensable tool for manufacturing as it helps in branding.

Light bulb is a solid state semiconductor device which converts electrical energy into visible light. This further converts electricity into light. Nowadays light bulbs are available in different formats like CFL, halogen, led, etc.

We all know the amount of benefit laser machines provide quality and affordability. With the help of laser machines you can mark on both the sides of light bulbs; one side with a brand logo and other side with any specifications.

Today major LED players are offering years of warranty on light products, like street lights, downlights, LED bulbs, and many more. The electronic parts which are against the outer conditions need print of barcodes or QR codes. It ensures proper traceability and enables warranty claims to avoid product duplicacy.

Following are the major benefits of using Laser machines on electric appliances:

  • Permanent marking
  • No consumption of ink
  • Crisp and clear marking
  • Less power consumption
  • High speed marking
  • No need of ink and cartridges

Final words:

Engines and electric appliances are one vertical in which laser machines are useful. Apart from this, we all know the importance of laser machines and how useful they are in current times. 

Source: https://altpartsinc.wixsite.com/altpartsinc/single-post/2020/08/27/Laser-Machines-in-Electrical-Industry

Friday, August 21, 2020

Laser Cutting: Tips and Practical Processes that Work!

Laser cutting is becoming popular in the manufacturing industry. It has even paved its way in industries such as medical, aerospace, electronics, automotive, etc. Its uses and benefits even caught the attention of the education sector and small business enterprises apart from the industrial sector.

Laser cutting has its various advantages to offer like higher edge quality, faster speed, less noise of the equipment and so on. The laser machinery by manufacturers like Prima Optics Laser, Fanuc Parts, etc. provides a comprehensive product range with all these advantages.

It is necessary to keep a check on the efficiency of the cutting process to avail these benefits to the highest extent.

Discover the tips to improve laser cutting efficiency.

Reduce the Cutting Head Lift

Generally, after working on one profile, the machine will lift to a certain height and then move to the next profile. This prevents the collision with the cut pieces. By optimizing the cutting path, you will be able to reduce the cutting head lift and this, in turn, will increase the efficiency of the laser. 

Use Quality Materials

Earlier it was difficult to cut thick material in a consistently smooth edge. Today, with the help of technology, it is easy to cut thick materials. But sometimes the edge quality gets compromised. To deal with this problem, using laser-quality, mill-scale materials is advisable. Quality materials will help to process thicker materials.

Use the Right File Format

In laser cutting .dxf or .dwg files are common. Hence, it is necessary to choose the correct file for better efficiency. Many software and applications are available that will help you. With the help of those you can convert PDF, .eps, .svg, and other file formats into .dxf or .dwg files.

Keep a Check on Spacing

When cutting multiple parts on the same metal sheet, spacing plays a significant role. If the parts are too close or you cut the features too thin then there is a risk of the burning down the material. Therefore, it is advisable to keep the appropriate spacing. 

Better Nozzles

For machines to effectively cut thicker materials it is necessary to make advancements in cutting nozzles. For this, popular technologies like oxygen cutting, and nitrogen cutting are available. They have a high-powered ability to cut at high speeds in thin materials.

If you need help in increasing the efficiency of your machines, you can search for manufactures online. Manufacturers like Prima Optics and Fanuc parts use functions and methods that help to improve laser-cutting efficiency. 

Updating to New Technology

Over the years the laser beam quality has improved thanks to new technology. One of the recent developments is a fiber laser. It has a lower maintenance cost, simple operation, and can cut the metal at a higher speed. By adopting such technologies, you can make the cutting process simpler and quicker. 

Now let’s discuss a few practical processes that increase the efficiency of laser-cutting.

Automatic focusing

The first step in metal cutting is to set the focus on the surface of the sheet. The laser focus varies depending on the material. Earlier manual focusing method was used which was replaced by auto-focusing due to advancement in technology. By using an auto-focusing function, machines can adjust the focus to a suitable position. You can even adjust it according to material type and thickness. This, in turn, increases the laser-cutting efficiency.

Concentrated Perforation

It is the processing technique of the laser-cutting machine. The cutting process using traditional perforation technology includes 2 stages:

• Perforation and cutting contour 1

• Perforation and cutting contour 2

While the concentrated perforation process aims at completing the perforation of all contours and then moving forward to the cutting process.

This method increases the length of the machine’s trajectory, avoids burning and adds up to the effectiveness of laser cutting.

Common Edge Cutting

When two parts have a common edge, you can separate them with the help of a single cut. This is known as common edge cutting. It offers the following benefits:

• Reduce the number of perforations

• Reduce the length of the cut 

• Minimize material waste

• Save cutting gas

• This can significantly improve efficiency.

Automatic Edge Finding

With the help of automatic edge finding function, the machine can sense the angle of the sheet and the cutting process automatically adjusts itself to suit the position of the sheet. This will reduce work intensity; time consumed and improve the laser-cutting function.

Conclusion:

Efficient laser-cutting saves material, reduces waste and provides economic benefits as well. Technological advancements in the laser industry have given rise to methods and functions that help increase the competence of laser-cutting. 

If you are an enterprise dealing in this space and require assistance, solutions by brands that offer Prima Optics, Fanuc Parts and other leading manufacturers can be fruitful.

Source: https://altpartsinc.wixsite.com/altpartsinc/single-post/2020/08/21/Laser-Cutting-Tips-and-Practical-Processes-that-Work

Friday, August 14, 2020

Five Ways to Maintain your Laser Machine

Laser machines are present in every industry today. Everywhere today we see, there is a lot of buzz about it. People are using it to create magical equipment, designing and engraving wonderful things. 

Fabricators spend thousands of dollars purchasing laser machines and maintain them. You need to keep them up and running all the time as customers can require things at any time. By the end of the day, it becomes very difficult to handle everything on your own and at minimal expense.

Maintaining machines is one of the major issues many fabricators face like oiling them regularly, replacing its parts like fanuc parts, fanuc spare parts, and many others. But, maintenance is essential so that you can deliver quality products to your customers. 

You might be thinking how you can do it efficiently. 

Here, in this article, we will discuss some of the ways you can efficiently maintain your machines and keep them up and running.

If you don’t maintain a machine then the light from the laser passes through an optical window to reach the workpiece. If the window is not clean properly then the light beam may defect and lose the majority of properties. To avoid this situation, we need to maintain our laser machines. Maintaining also includes replacing laser machine’s parts with high-quality Fanuc parts and Fanuc spare parts.

Now, let’s first understand why you need to maintain a laser machine?

The efficiency of laser cutting machines depends largely on how well you are maintaining it. Your machine might be under service contract and 24-hour technical support, it is always a smart move to follow these simple steps to clean and ensure there are no delays on deliveries or tempers frayed.

Timely maintenance of laser machines helps you to ensure longevity and saves you money. It’s not a tough job.

Without further ado, let’s get started with the tips for maintaining laser machines

1. Cleaning External Parts First

Maintaining and cleaning the external parts of your machine tasks hardly 5 minutes a day. Insulated housing protects the brain of the machine i.e. control board and other electronics parts. The internal parts do not need user intervention.

Everyday maintenance of machines reduces by extraction or exhaust system. Routine checkups are limited to external cleaning of engraving areas, mirrors, and fume extraction outlets.

2. Wipe Lenses

Before any operation and after 8 hours of laser operation, make sure to visually inspect all optic lenses. This means keep an eye on all three mirrors and focus lenses of your machine. Check smudges, debris, or any kind of residual grime.

Wipe the mentioned things with non-alcoholic liquid which you receive while you purchase the laser machine. Remember a clean machine gives you better results. Accumulation of unwanted particles created scratches and damage the lens, mirror, and overall degradation in the quality of desired product.

3. Proper Oiling

Any machine needs proper oiling to work smoothly. Remember lubricants are key to maintenance in any machine. Over time, of course, laser machines and its parts like Fanuc parts, Fanuc spare parts, and many others suffer from corrosion. If you don’t use proper oil then the laser path gets affected. 

Move the slider back and forth to apply oil evenly on all surfaces. Lubricate each and every part properly as it helps to reduce friction and wearing out. It can prevent rust and lockups. When the parts are moving with clean lubricant then it puts less stress on the motor and therefore extends its life.

4. Renew the Cycle

Laser engraving machines are recycled using distilled water which acts as a coolant for laser beams. If you use it for a long time then it leads to contamination of the tube.

After using for 2 to 3 weeks, remove water and add a new stream of distilled water. Water tank cleaning is important for a machine’s long life. Be sure to check and ensure tightness on those joints to avoid leaks. This way the laser tube will perform in better conditions.

5. Take Advice from Experts

If you are ever stuck in something or with some mechanical problem, rather than solving on your own contact your company’s technical staff. I am sure they will help you solve the issue. The reason behind not doing it on your own is there are chances you might do some mistake which can lead to machine failure. 

Final Words:

Always make sure to maintain your machines properly as it results in having proper product output. We all know the consequences of not maintaining them properly. Efficient working of your machines plays an important role to satisfy your customers’ requirements and grow your business.

Source: https://altpartsinc.wixsite.com/altpartsinc/single-post/2020/08/14/Five-Ways-to-Maintain-your-Laser-Machine

Thursday, August 6, 2020

Four Tips to Consider Before Purchasing Laser Machines

Being a fabricator is difficult and there are so many things you should know about it before you invest into the machine. Like which brand of machine to purchase, what type of designs you should create, understanding users’ requirements. All of these factors play a very important role.

Thousands of questions arise when you have to purchase one laser engraving machine. Not only this but there are thousands of companies also with their variety of laser machines so it is very obvious to get confused.

To overcome this confusion, in today’s article, we will discuss some of the things you must consider before purchasing laser engraving machines.

1. Do thorough research

I can understand laser engraving machines are a big investment and each of the brands has their own types of machines. These machines are different in size, powers, and functions so as a fabricator you need to know what is the function and purpose of these machines and what are your requirements.

Some machines are suitable for production while some are not suitable because of their speed. Big machines let you cut and engrave bigger items, so here you need to have clarity upon what you want your machine to do.

As a fabricator, it is your job to do thorough research on suppliers and distributors of laser machines in your area. Find and make a list of companies who are well known, the cost of spare parts, laser machines, and their customers’ ratings.

Make sure that you are not using machines that have rusty spare parts. While purchasing the laser engraving machine make sure that spare parts are of some well-known companies like Mazak parts and Mitsubishi machine parts so it is easy to replace them as and when required.

2. Location of machine

Location or place where you want to set up a machine is a very important part for you to work efficiently. You need to be sure about the weather, environment, market, place, power supply, and many such things. Add more equipment like compressor, air filter, computer, suction, water drainage, and many more. Additionally, make sure that the machine is dust-free and cools with air conditioning as it generates extreme heat.

Lastly, make sure that machine has an earthling cable as most laser machines generate power based on an electric laser tube. You need to release the tube of its electric tension. If there is no earth cable then the tension on the laser tube will break within a year.

3. Compressor is an important part

Laser machines need a compressor and for this, you need to make sure that your supplier has technical knowledge about this. The type of compressor you need depends on different factors like humidity, size of laser machine, power supply requirements, and many others. 

It is the supplier’s responsibility to help you set up the machine including air compressor, suction, and drainage as they know the correct steps. You need to purchase machines according to the place you stay in. Suppose, you are staying in a place that is humid then make sure the machine has an air dryer or cleaner. Also remember to timely replace spare Mazak parts and Mitsubishi machine parts.

You might know that the air which blows inside of the machine is clean and dry as there are some compressors that produce oil and water in the air. Remember oil and water is not good for your machine as the laser will stick out of your lens and as a result, the lens will turn blurry. This will eventually result in having imperfect laser engraving experience and will make a hole in the lens. 

Lenses are very costly so avoid playing with it.

4. Water Management System

If you are living in a humid country then your compressor will exhale plenty of water. It stores in a compressor or the air compressor tank. Make sure to empty the water storage everyday either on an hourly or daily basis. Hence, in some countries, you can install an auto drainage system on compressors or air tanks. This device automatically empties the water storage so it never gets full and you can also keep your machine running. I will say, it is not important to have it but is one of the essential parts of the ecosystem around your machine. 

Final Words: 

I can understand purchasing a laser machine can be a very big investment as there are many risk factors included. You just need to make sure of the above four discussed points as it will help you to make better decisions, work more efficiently with your clients, and increase your productivity. I am saying it again make sure that your supplier uses known parts like Mazak parts and Mitsubishi machine parts so it is easier for you to replace them.

Source: https://altpartsinc.wixsite.com/altpartsinc/single-post/2020/08/06/Four-Tips-to-Consider-Before-Purchasing-Laser-Machines