Sawing Through the Competition
Tubular USA is finding ways to increase their productivity using Scotchman saws.
Tubular USA is finding ways to increase their productivity using Scotchman saws.
Today’s high definition plasma systems are capable of cutting metal up to 6 inches thick.
Editor’s Note: Don Hoffman has decades of experience with laser cutters and brings to the table a combination of independence, research skills, and thoughtful analysis. Here he tackles a moving target, with appropriate care and cautions, to write a useful guide to the relative per-part costs with CO2 and fiber lasers. CO2 laser, flat-material cutting… Continued
A tungsten electrode and “stack up” from 1970’s (top) and modern hafnium electrode (bottom).
Relative speeds and costs dominate the fiber-versus-CO2 comparison, but the 10:1 difference in wavelengths has other consequences for the laser user. The speed race has evolved since this story was first published in a laser association journal, but not the practical issues related to wavelength. Also, it addressed 3D laser cutting; the principles still hold for 2D. Consider this essential background for anyone who wants to understand more about using fiber and CO2. For the latest on speeds, as they say in the car business, call for today’s prices.
Designed for cutting bundles of solids, structurals and tubes, Simonds’ IC Enduro 3, like other blades, requires a rich coolant mix that sticks to the blade.