As a crucial piece of equipment in modern industrial manufacturing, fiber laser machines hold an essential position in the field of metal cutting due to their high efficiency and precision. To ensure optimal performance and longevity of fiber laser cutting machines, mastering their correct use is vital. This article will provide a detailed guide on the proper use of fiber laser machines, covering preparation, operation steps, maintenance, and common troubleshooting.
Ⅰ. Preparation Work
1. Safety Inspection：
Before starting the fiber laser cutting machine, a comprehensive safety inspection is necessary. Ensure there are no flammable materials around the equipment, and the working environment is clean, tidy, and well-ventilated. Check that the power cables and grounding wires are intact, and verify that the laser, cooling system, and other components are in normal working condition.
2. Material Preparation：
Select the appropriate metal material according to the cutting requirements. Ensure the material surface is clean, free from obvious stains or impurities, as these can affect the cutting quality. Adjust the machine’s parameters such as power, speed, and gas pressure according to the material’s thickness and properties.
3. Parameter Setting：
The parameter settings of the fiber laser cutting machine directly impact the cutting results. Different materials and thicknesses require different parameter combinations. Generally, cutting thicker materials requires higher laser power and slower cutting speed, while thinner materials need lower power and faster speed. It is recommended to conduct a small-scale test cut to determine the optimal parameters before starting the actual cutting.
II. Operation Steps
1. Start the Equipment：
Follow the guidelines in the operation manual to correctly start the fiber laser cutting machine. This usually includes the following steps:
Turn on the main power switch
Start the laser
Start the cooling system
Check the equipment status to ensure all systems are operating normally
2. Load Materials：
Secure the metal material to be cut on the workbench, ensuring its flatness and stability. Adjust the height and position of the cutting head according to the size and shape of the material, aligning it with the cutting area.
3. Set the Cutting Path：
Use specialized software to set the cutting path. Based on the drawing requirements, draw or import the cutting pattern, and set the cutting sequence and path. Ensure the cutting path is reasonable to minimize idle time of the cutting head and improve processing efficiency.
4. Start Cutting：
Initiate the cutting program, and the fiber laser cutting machine will automatically cut according to the preset path and parameters. During the cutting process, operators should closely monitor the machine’s operating status and adjust the parameters as necessary to ensure cutting quality. If any abnormalities such as discontinuous cutting or rough edges are detected, stop the machine immediately and troubleshoot.
III. Maintenance
Daily maintenance of the fiber laser cutting machine is crucial and directly affects its service life and performance. Here are some key maintenance steps:
1. Regular Cleaning：
Cutting generates a lot of metal debris and dust, which can accumulate inside the machine and affect its normal operation. Regularly clean the laser head, optical system, and workbench using specialized cleaning tools and agents to avoid damaging the equipment.
2. Inspect the Optical System：
The optical system of the fiber laser cutting machine is very precise, and any deviation can affect the cutting quality. Regularly check the status of the laser, mirrors, and focusing lens to ensure their positions are accurate and surfaces are clean. Replace or clean the lenses if they have scratches or stains.
3. Replace Consumables：
After long-term use, some consumables such as nozzles and protective lenses may wear out or age and need to be replaced regularly. The replacement cycle varies depending on the equipment usage frequency and the processed materials. Timely replacement of consumables can effectively ensure cutting quality and machine performance.
4. Maintain the Cooling System：
The cooling system is crucial for the stable operation of the fiber laser cutting machine. Regularly check the coolant tank, pump, and hoses for leaks or blockages, and ensure the coolant is clean. If the coolant temperature is abnormal, adjust or replace the coolant promptly.
IV. Common Issues and Solutions
During the use of fiber laser cutting machines, some common issues may arise such as incomplete cutting, burrs on the cut edge, and equipment alarms. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
1. Incomplete Cutting：
If incomplete cutting occurs, first check whether the laser power is sufficient and whether the cutting speed is too fast. Increasing the laser power or reducing the cutting speed usually solves the problem. Additionally, verify that the material thickness is within the machine’s cutting range.
2. Burrs on the Cut Edge：
Burrs are usually caused by slow cutting speed or insufficient gas pressure. Increasing the cutting speed and gas pressure can reduce burrs. Also, check whether the focus distance between the cutting head and the material is correct and adjust to the optimal position.
3. Equipment Alarms：
Equipment alarms are typically due to improper operation or equipment faults. Based on the alarm prompts, check the status of related components such as the cooling system, laser, and power supply. If the issue cannot be resolved independently, contact professional maintenance personnel for inspection.
Final Thoughts
Mastering the correct use of fiber laser cutting machines not only improves processing efficiency and cutting quality but also effectively extends the equipment’s service life. By following standard operating procedures, performing regular maintenance, and promptly addressing common issues, you can ensure the fiber laser cutting machine remains in optimal working condition, providing strong support for industrial manufacturing. This article aims to help users of fiber laser cutting machines achieve better results in practical applications.