One Compact Fiber Laser Performs Four Processes

Prima Power Laserdyne (Champlin, MN) replaces the Laserdyne 780 with the 5-axis Laserdyne 811, a compact fiber laser that cuts, drills, welds, and performs directed energy deposition (DED) additive manufacturing for small-to-medium-size workpieces. The working envelope is 41.5 by 31.5 by 24 inches (1,100 x 800 x 600 mm) for the X, Y, and Z axes, respectively. Each axis has greater than 50 m/second velocity and acceleration of 1.2 g.

In addition to providing 90 rpm rotational speed and 15-arcsec repeatability, BeamDirector motion control supports laser processing from 90 degrees (normal to the surface) to 10 degrees off the surface of a part all the way along the axis of travel. Two additional axes (C and D) enable the extremely compact rotary-and-tilt-axes head to access hard-to-reach crevices.

The S94P CNC provides real-time pulse-by-pulse control including as the ability to program a unique shape for each individual laser pulse, such as when welding very thin aluminum, copper, cast iron, and high-carbon steels. The controller supports 7 axes of simultaneous motion and an additional axis for automating loading/unloading and other handling processes.

SmartTechniques software suite with free updates shortens cycle times while improving quality and consistency (optional FastTrim and Fast Suite II CAD/CAM software supports full 6-axis interpolation). The machine supports Windows 10 as well as Industry 4.0 via MTConnect real-time parameter and data streaming along with Prima Power Laserdyne-developed SPC process data reporting and storage. AMExpress CAD/CAM option supports DED.

With the BeamDirector and wide variety of Laserdyne nozzles, the machine transitions from welding to cutting to drilling and vice versa within seconds.

www.primapowerlaserdyne.com