There are many problems with fiber laser machines during use, including errors in the laser cutting process, poor cutting effects, etc. So how do these errors occur?
Ⅰ.Common Reasons and Detailed Descriptions:
1. Geometric error of the workpiece
The geometric error of the workpiece is affected by many factors. The fluctuation and unevenness of the surface of the processed object will generate heat during the cutting process. It makes the surface of the thin plate parts easily deformed. Due to the uneven surface, the laser focus changes with the position of the surface of the processed object, which leads to a decrease in cutting accuracy. For example, surface fluctuations and unevenness can cause the laser focus to be inconsistent with the ideal position, resulting in errors.
2. Cutting thickness of the material
Cutting thickness exceeding the standard of the fiber laser machine will also cause errors. Taking the 3000W laser cutting machine as an example, the optimal cutting thickness should be less than 20 mm. The thinner the plate, the easier it is to cut and the better the quality. On the contrary, if the plate is too thick, the laser cutting machine will be more difficult to cut, and the processing accuracy will decrease while ensuring the cutting. Therefore, it is necessary to determine the thickness of the plate before operation to avoid errors caused by excessive thickness.
3. Programming error
During the processing of the fiber laser cutting machine, the processing trajectory on the complex surface is usually fitted by straight lines, arcs, etc. There are errors between the fitting curve and the actual curve, which will cause the position deviation between the actual focus and the surface of the processing object. In addition, some teaching programming systems may also cause programming errors, affecting the final processing accuracy.
4. Focus position error
Focus position error is an important factor in the laser cutting process. Many factors will change the relative position between the focus and the surface of the processed object, such as the surface smoothness of the workpiece, the clamping method of the workpiece, the geometric error of the machine tool, and the deformation caused by the long-term load of the machine tool. The thermal deformation of the workpiece during the processing will also cause the deviation between the laser focus position and the ideal position (programmed position). For these random errors, it is impossible to completely avoid them, but the errors can be reduced by online detection and control, thereby improving the working accuracy of the fiber laser cutting machine.
Ⅱ.Measures to Reduce Errors in Laser Cutting Machines
1. Workpiece fixation and calibration
Ensure that the workpiece is firmly fixed during the cutting process to avoid errors caused by movement during the cutting process. Using high-precision fixtures and calibration tools can effectively reduce errors caused by workpiece movement.
2. Material selection
Choose materials of appropriate thickness for cutting, and avoid using materials that exceed the standard thickness of the equipment. By strictly controlling the thickness of the material, the cutting quality and accuracy can be significantly improved.
3. Accurate programming
During the programming process, minimize the fitting error, use high-precision programming software and algorithms to ensure the accuracy of the processing trajectory. Regularly update and calibrate the programming system to reduce the error caused by the system itself.
4. Online detection and control
Use advanced online detection and control systems to monitor and adjust the laser focus position in real time to reduce the error caused by the uneven surface and thermal deformation of the workpiece. By automatically adjusting the laser power and focal length, the cutting accuracy can be effectively improved.
Final Thoughts
Metal laser cutting machines will inevitably produce errors during use, but by understanding the causes of the errors and taking corresponding measures, these errors can be effectively reduced and the cutting quality and accuracy can be improved. Regular maintenance and maintenance of equipment to ensure the stable operation of the equipment is also an important means to reduce errors. Through continuous improvement of processes and technologies, laser cutting machines will play an increasingly important role in the field of metal processing.