Laser cutting system processes sheets up to 157 in. by 78 in.

LVD Strippit's Orion 4020 hybrid-style CO₂laser cutting system processes large sheets up to 157 in. by 78 in. The system features a rigid, high-precision rack-and-pinion drive system designed to provide precise motion and position control. A rigid design enables the machine to maintain high processing speeds without sacrificing cut quality, the company reports.

The system employs a simple beam delivery system made up of three mirrors, ensuring simplified alignment and a stable beam path. The standard laser cutting head accommodates a 5-in. or 7.5-in. quick-change lens—operators can install or exchange the lenses using a self-centering system. Lens calibration is programmable.

A built-in capacitive height sensor automatically maintains a constant distance between the head and the plate, compensating for any unevenness in the material. The machine table is positioned at a comfortable working height and offers full access and visibility on three sides, states the company. Other standard features include automatic cutting gas selection and automatic cutting gas pressure control with a servo valve.

The system is equipped with a high-pressure cutting head. A crash-protection system protects the head from damage if it collides with the workpiece. A total power control feature automatically adjusts the laser power according to the cutting speed to ensure an optimal cut at every contour width and to minimize the HAZ. An edge function feature processes sharp corners cleanly, especially in thick materials.

The machine uses a GE FANUC® RF-excited, fast-axial-flow CO2 laser. The laser, CNC, drives, and motors are fully integrated. The FANUC control reproduces programmed contours. Laser power is matched to the vectorial speeds to achieve a constant cut width and a small HAZ. All parameters, diagnostics, and start-up procedures are displayed on a single color screen. According to the manufacturer, 32-bit control features powerful mathematical capabilities and an extensive material library.

The system also is available as a Plus version that provides automatic focal positioning and increased process control functionality. Optional CADMAN-L 3D offline programming software includes an integrated 3-D design and unfolding module that allows importing of 2-D and 3-D designs, automatic unfolding, and generation of flat patterns from 2-D or 3-D files. The software also incorporates fully automatic, semiautomatic, or manual nesting and is designed to optimize cutting and machine parameters. Advanced features include cutting path optimization; common-line cutting; and high-speed communications via Windows®, networking, or DNC link.