In today’s era, technology has revolutionized industries. Have you ever wondered how such fine and intricate designs are made on heavy and thick iron sheets? The answer is CNC laser cutting technology.
​In today’s post, we will learn how this machine works and why it cuts iron like butter.
​What is a CNC Laser Cutting Machine?
CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control. It is a machine that is entirely controlled through computer programming. The human’s job is only to load the design into the computer; the machine does the rest of the work itself.
​How does it work?
When we create a design in computer software like AutoCAD, it is converted into the machine’s language, G-Code. The machine reads this code and moves the laser beam along the exact path we designed.
​How is the iron cut? The power of the laser.
This machine does not cut iron with a saw or a cutter, but with a high-energy laser beam.
​Process: The machine focuses an extremely powerful laser beam onto a tiny point. This laser beam heats the iron so intensely that it melts and vaporizes or exits in a molten state.
Use of Gas: During cutting, special gases (such as nitrogen or oxygen) are used in the machine. These gases help remove the molten metal from the path and keep the cut clean.
​Can it cut a one-inch thick sheet?
Yes! Modern CNC fiber laser machines cut one-inch or even thicker iron sheets just as a hot knife cuts butter. The reason for this is that the power of the fiber laser is very high, and it rapidly separates the molecules of the iron.
​Remote Control and Precision
You monitor this machine via a remote or control panel. Sensors installed in the machine ensure that the laser remains at the exact distance, even if the sheet is slightly uneven. That is why there is almost no room for error. When the machine cuts, some pieces fall down after being cut, and some lift up. If the machine hits them, the level of the whole sheet and the design can be ruined. Therefore, when this machine is running, a person stands there with a remote at all times. If any piece lifts upward, the machine is immediately stopped using the remote, the piece is moved aside, and then the machine is resumed from the same point. The space for placing the sheet on this machine is 5 feet wide and 10 feet long.
​CNC Machine Rates
A machine that can cut up to 15mm of iron costs $32,000.
A machine that cuts 25mm thick iron, which is a higher-power machine, costs $42,000.
And this machine is imported directly from China.
​Conclusion
CNC laser cutting technology has combined engineering and art. Now we can create designs on iron that were previously considered impossible. If you also want to stay connected with modern technology, stay tuned to our blog, Small to Big Tech.
