Fiber-optic laser cutting is an ideal method for creating shapes or “features” in round, square or rectangle tube or pipe. For medium to high volumes, this technique offers precision, speed and flexibility. Use of a laser also offers the advantage of being able to cut or etch different shapes in metal tube or pipe that would be difficult if not impossible with a traditional vertical mill or drill press, due to the radius of the rotary cutting tool.
Round holes are the most common feature requested, followed by flat-sided oval, square and rectangular cuts.
As a rule of thumb, hole diameters are not to be cut smaller than the wall thickness of the material, nor can they be larger than the inside diameter of the tubing. Typical applications are holes for fasteners, vents or drains, and mounting. Within these guidelines, nearly any 2D shape can be laser cut on a tube with the right programming software.
Fish mouth type notches or copes are also commonly requested and easily cut on a tube laser. Notching or coping is a concave or radius feature, often at the ends of a tube, and frequently used to help locate or assemble other tubes or intersecting parts. Basic miter cuts and more complex compound miters can be cut on the ends of a tube on a tube laser with little effort compared to most other cutting methods.
These type of end cuts may also be requested for tab and slot features, used to locate and hold parts in place during an assembly or to aid in fit up and welding. Common applications include railings, chassis for vehicles or other tubular frameworks.
Tubing is normally sold in lengths, and laser cutting equipment may not only be used to cut sections from the raw length of tube but also perforate or slit entire lengths depending on the unload capabilities of the machine.
Some jobs call for part marking, which is commonly used for alignment and assembly locations, or for identification. Customer part numbers or notes can be etched on or even cut into a tube. In some cases, ornamental shapes and logos are integrated for branding or decorative purposes.
Because the laser is concentrated light that essentially melts through the material, it will always create a precise edge, helping to reduce the need for secondary operations, such as de-burring. Aesthetically, this results in a better looking piece. And, without excess burrs, parts are easier and safer to handle.
Use of a fiber-optic laser allows for greater flexibility and precision for creating just about any shape needed. Laser cutting is ideal for many types of metals, particularly aluminum and mild to high-strength steel and stainless steel, aluminum, brass, bronze and even copper. Laser technology works well with highly reflective metals, as the laser beam easily absorbs into the material instead of bouncing off its surface.
For more information about laser cutting, please click here.
This blog was authored by Marshall Arndt, manufacturing engineer, Sharpe Products. Marshall can be contacted at marshalla@sharpeproducts.com.