During the long-term use of fiber laser cutting machines, some losses may occur, resulting in problems such as slow cutting speed and poor cutting accuracy. While many people assume that the laser power is the culprit for these issues, there are actually several factors that can cause a reduction in power, not just the laser generator itself.
Therefore, let’s examine some possible reasons for the power reduction of optical fiber laser cutting machines:
1. Focus position
The position of the focus has a significant impact on cutting accuracy, particularly the diameter of the focus spot.
Ideally, the focus spot diameter should be minimized to produce a narrow slit.
The diameter of the focus spot is directly proportional to the focal depth of the focusing lens. Therefore, a smaller focal depth of the focusing lens will result in a smaller focus spot diameter.
Related reading: How to Choose Laser Cutting Focus?
2. The distance of the nozzle
The distance between the nozzle and the workpiece is another factor that impacts the power reduction of an optical fiber laser cutting machine.
If the distance is too great, it can result in an unnecessary waste of kinetic energy, while if it is too close, it can affect the machine’s ability to disperse sputtered cutting products effectively.
The appropriate distance between the nozzle and workpiece is 0.8mm.
Moreover, the optical fiber laser cutting machine relies heavily on its follow-up adjustment capabilities to cut workpieces with uneven surfaces. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the nozzle’s height remains consistent with the workpiece throughout the operation.
3. Cutting speed
The power of the fiber laser cutting machine is significantly affected by the cutting speed, which is directly proportional to the machine’s power.
Moreover, the quality of the laser beam and the characteristics of the laser beam focusing system play a crucial role in determining the cutting quality. Specifically, the size of the laser beam after focusing greatly impacts the quality of the laser cutting.
Related reading: Laser Cutting Thickness & Speed Chart
4. Auxiliary gas
The power of the optical fiber laser cutting machine is affected by the size of the auxiliary gas and gas pressure. It’s recommended to use compressed air or inert gas as the auxiliary gas. When the thickness of the processed material increases or the cutting speed is slow, the gas pressure should be appropriately lowered. Cutting with lower gas pressure can prevent frosting along the edge.
Related reading: The Application of Air as Auxiliary Gas in Laser Cutting
5. Laser power
If the first four items have been eliminated, the power of the laser will decrease.
After prolonged usage of any equipment, certain parts will age.
The laser is the essential and most crucial component of a fiber laser cutting machine, and its power will decrease after extended usage.
Apart from the aforementioned factors, the performance, size, and thickness of the processing materials will also affect the power reduction of a fiber laser cutting machine.
Related reading: How to Select the Power of Fiber Laser Cutting Machine?
