10 Things to Consider When Buying cnc fiber laser cutter

21, Jul. 2025

 

Things To Consider When Buying A Fiber Laser Metal Cutter - stylecnc

What is a fiber laser cutting machine?

A fiber laser cutting machine is a laser machine that emits light from a laser and focuses it into a high power density laser beam via an optical path system. The laser beam hits the surface of the workpiece, causing the workpiece to reach its melting point or boiling point, while the high-pressure gas coaxial with the beam blows the molten or vaporized metal away.

For more information, please visit HAVEN.

With the movement of the relative position of the beam and the workpiece, the material is finally cut to achieve the purpose of cutting.

The laser cutting process replaces the traditional mechanical knives with invisible beams. It has high precision, fast cutting speed, is not limited to cutting pattern restrictions, and saves material by automatic typesetting, has a smooth incision, and has low processing costs. It will gradually improve or replace traditional metal cutting process equipment. The mechanical part of the laser cutter head has no contact with the workpiece. It will not scratch the workpiece surface during work. The laser cutting speed is fast and the incision is smooth and flat. Generally no subsequent processing is required. The heat affected zone is small, the plate deformation is small, and the slit is narrow ( 0.1mm~0.3mm); No mechanical stress, no cutting burrs on the notch; High precision machining, good repeatability, no damage to the surface of the material; NC programming, can process any plan, can cut the whole board with a large format, without open mold, economical and time-saving.

What is a fiber laser cutting machines used for?

Fiber laser cutting machines can cut all kinds of metal materials such as:

Iron

Alloy

Brass

Copper

Titanium

Aluminum

Carbon steel

Structural steel

Stainless steel

What is a fiber laser cutting machine applied in?

Fiber laser cutting machine applications are very extensive, include many industries, and it is one of the necessary equipment for many businesses.

Advertising industry

Sheet metal processing industry

Chassis cabinet production

Spring sheet production

Subway parts

Elevator manufacturing

Kitchen kitchenware manufacturing

Fiber laser cutting machine is applied in sheet metal processing, advertising sign making, high and low voltage electrical cabinet making, mechanical parts, kitchen utensils, automobiles, machinery, metal crafts, saw blades, electrical parts, eyewear industry, spring sheet, circuit board, electric kettle, medical micro Electronics, hardware, knife measuring tools and other industries.

What's the component of a fiber laser cutting machine?

It's made of three important parts.

The first one, the heavy duty frame which normally welded by tube and sheet metal. It can provide the long time service time and with spirit level measurement (Figure 4-1), it makes sure the precision of the working. It is used to place the workpiece to be cut and it can be moved accurately and precisely according to the control program. It is usually driven by 2pcs servo motor(Figure4-2 ).

(Figure 4-1 spirit level measurement )

(Figure 4-2 Yaskawa servo motor)

The second one, beam transmission system. The transmission optics and the mechanical components of the whole process from the beam emitted from the laser generator(Figure 4-3) to the workpiece.

(Figure4-3 IPG laser generator)

The last one. CNC control system(Figure4-4). It provides the movement of the X, Y and Z axis. Also it can control the output power of the generator.

(Figure4-4 Cypcut control system)

Besides the three important parts, there are also other parts for the fiber laser cutting machine.

• The Outside light path. It means the refractive mirror which is used to direct the laser in the desired direction. In order to prevent failure of the beam path, all mirrors must be protected by a protective cover, and a clean positive pressure protective gas is introduced to protect the lens from contamination. A set of well-performing lenses will focus a beam with no divergence into an infinitely small spot. A 5.0 inch focal length lens is generally used. The 7.5-inch lens is only used for >12mm thick materials.

• Stabilized voltage supply. It connects among the laser generator, frame and power supply system. Mainly to prevent the interference of the external power grid.

• Fiber laser cutting head. It mainly includes parts such as the cavity, the focusing lens holder, the focusing lens, capacitive sensor and auxiliary gas nozzle. The cutting head driving device is used to drive the cutting head along the Z-axis direction according to a program, and is composed of a servo motor, a screw rod or a gear, and so on.

• Water chiller system(Figure 4-5 ). It's used for cooling and laser head and the laser generator. A laser is a device that converts electrical energy into light energy. For example, a fiber laser generally has a conversion rate more than 25%, and the remaining energy is converted into heat. Cooling water removes excess heat to keep the laser generator working in cold water. The unit also cools the machine's external light path mirror and focusing lens to ensure a stable beam transmission quality, and effectively prevent the lens from being overheated, causing deformation or bursting.

(Figure 4-5 S&A water chiller)

• Gas(Figure 4-6). Including laser cutting machine working the medium gas and auxiliary gas, it's used to supply auxiliary gas for the cutting head.

(Figure 4-6 Gas)

• Other equipment for daily using, like air compressor, filter, exhaust fan, and more.

What's the working principle of a fiber laser cutting machine?

Laser is a kind of light. Like the other kind of light, It is also produced by the transition of atoms (molecular or ionic).

However, unlike ordinary light, laser light(Figure 5-1) is dependent on spontaneous radiation only for the first very short time. Since the process is completely determined by the excitation light, the laser has a very pure color, almost no divergent directionality, and high luminous intensity and high coherence.

Fiber laser cutting is achieved by applying high power density energy generated by laser focusing. Under the control of a computer, the laser is discharged by pulses to output a controlled repetition of a high-frequency pulsed laser to form a beam of a certain frequency and a certain pulse width. The pulsed laser beam is conducted and reflected by the optical path and focused by the focusing lens group. On the surface of the processed object, a subtle, high-energy density light spot is formed. The focal spot is located near the surface to be processed, and the processed material is melted or gasified at a high temperature in an instant. Each high-energy laser pulse instantly sputters a small hole in the surface of the object. Under the control of the computer, the laser processing head and the material to be processed are successively moved and plotted according to a pre-drawn pattern, so that the object is processed into The desired shape.

(Figure 5-1 Raytools laser head)

How to define the cutting quality of a fiber laser cutting machine?

The cutting accuracy is the first factor in determining the quality of a CNC laser cutting machine. Here are the four factors that affect the cutting accuracy.

• The laser cohesion size of the laser generator. If after cohesion, the laser beam is very small, the cutting precision will be very high. After cutting, the gap will be very small too. It explains that the cutting quality and cutting precision are very good.

If the beam from the laser generator is big, then cutting gap is also big. In this condition, the thicker the workpiece, the bigger the gap.

• The precision of the frame. Before working, we need check the each part of the frame. The vertical and horizontal of the frame should be very good. If there's 0.1mm deviation of each part, with the machine working, it will be bigger and bigger.

• The shape of the laser beam. If the beam from the laser generator is taper, then cutting gap is also taper. In this condition, the thicker the workpiece, the bigger the gap.

• Different material will also cause different cutting quality. For example, in the same condition, there's a big difference for cutting stainless steel and aluminum. For cutting stainless steel the precision and cutting edge will be better than aluminum.

The general speaking, the cutting quality of fiber laser cutting machine can be defined by those 5 standards.

• The quality of the cutting edge.

• The size of the slag of the cutting edge.

• The trimming perpendicularity and inclination.

• The cutting edge fillet size.

• Flatness.

Safe operation of a fiber laser cutting machine

Notices must be trained by professionals to operate independently. Based on our experience, 13 details of the safe operation of the laser cutting machine are summarized.

• Observe the safety rules of the cutting machine. Start the laser strictly according to the laser start up procedure.

• The operator must be trained to be familiar with the structure and performance of the equipment and master operating system knowledge.

• Put on the glasses if operate near the fiber laser beam.

• Before finding out if the material is suitable for fiber laser, do not process it in case that it may cause steam and smoke.

• When start operating, the operator can not leave or hand over to others. If need to leave, the operator should turn off the machine.

• Put the fire extinguisher nearby. Turn off the machine if not operate. Do not put paper, leather or other flammable material near the laser beam.

• If find any abnormal situation when operating, stop the machine immediately and troubleshoot or inform engineers.

• Keep the laser, the frame and the surrounding area are clean, orderly and free of oil. Put the Workpiece, metal sheet and the scarp stacked as required.

• When using gas, crush the welding wires should be avoided to avoid leakage accidents.The use of gas cylinders and transport should comply with the cylinder monitoring procedures. Do not expose the cylinder to sunlight or near heat sources. When opening the bottle valve, the operator must stand on the side of the bottle mouth.

• Observe high pressure safety regulations when servicing. Every 40 hours of operation or weekly maintenance, every hours of operation, or every six months of maintenance, should be performed in accordance with regulations and procedures.

• After turning on the machine, manually start the machine at low speed in X and Y direction to check if there is any abnormality.

For more information, please visit cnc fiber laser cutter.

• After a new part program is entered, it should be tested and its operation checked.

• When working, pay attention to observe the operation of the machine frame to avoid the machine getting out of the effective range or two machines collisions causing accidents.

Daily maintenance of a fiber laser cutting machine

The frame(Figure 8-1).

• Before starting the machine every day, carefully check the working conditions of the laser working gas and cutting gas. If the gas pressure is not enough, it should be replaced promptly.

• Check if the X-axis zero point, Y-axis zero point, Z-axis zero point, laser preparation status are damaged (check indicator).

• Check if there is any looseness of the zero point, limit switch of the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis and the installation screws of the impact block, and whether the limit switch of each axis is sensitive.

• Check whether the circulating water level in the chiller is sufficient. If it is insufficient, it must be added in time.

• Check whether there is any leakage in the circulating water circuit of the external light path. Leakage must be handled in time, otherwise the life of the optical lens is affected.

• After each day of cutting, check the lens of the focusing lens for damage.

• Check whether the bellows of the outer light path is burned or damaged.

• After the completion of the daily work, clean up the cutting waste in time, clean the work site, and keep the work site tidy and clean. At the same time, do a good job of cleaning the equipment to ensure that all parts of the equipment are clean and free of dirt.

• After the daily work is completed, the drain valve of the air reservoir at the bottom of the air compressor is opened to drain, and the drain valve is closed after the waste water is discharged.

• After daily work, press the shutdown step to shut down, then turn off the total power of the entire machine.

(Figure8-1 Heavy duty frame)

The laser generator (Figure 8-2).

The laser generator should be maintained before starting up daily.

• Check the cooling water pressure is maintained between 3.5-5 Pa.

• Check the temperature of the cooling water, preferably the temperature of the water required for the selected laser generator.

• Check the height of the oil level in the laser generator vacuum pump. If not, add it.

• Check whether there is any leakage in the oil, water, and gas lines of the laser generator, and whether the vacuum pump or the pneumatic components in the resonator are leaking.

(Figure 8-2 Raycus laser generator)

How to buy a fiber laser cutting machine from STYLECNC?

Step 1. Consult: we will recommend the most suitable fiber laser cutters to you after being informed by your requirements, such as the metal materials you want to cut, the max size of the metal materials( Length x Width x Thickness).

Step 2. Quotation: We will supply you with our detail quotation according to our consulted machines, with the best quality and most competitive price.

Step 3. Process Evaluation: Both sides carefully evaluate and discuss all the details(including technical parameters, specifications and business terms) of the order to exclude any misunderstanding.

Step 4. Placing Order: Without any doubt, we will send you the PI( Proforma Invoice), and then both sides will sign a sales contract.

Step 5. Production: We will arrange the production as soon as receiving your signed sales contract and deposit . The latest news about production will be updated and informed to the buyer during the production.

Step 6. Quality Control: The whole production procedure will be under regular inspection and strict quality control. The complete laser metal cutting machine will be tested to make sure they can work very well before being out of factory.

Step 7. Delivery: We will arrange the delivery as the terms we both agreed with and after the confirmation by the buyer.

Step 8. Custom Clearance: We will supply and deliver all the necessary shipping documents to the buyer and ensure a smooth customs clearance.

11 Tips and Factors to Consider When Selecting a Fiber Laser Cutter

Fiber laser cutting stands at the forefront of precision manufacturing, offering unmatched efficiency and accuracy. This technology revolutionizes how industries like manufacturing and advertising handle metal cutting, making it essential to choose the right fiber laser cutter for your needs.

What is Fiber Laser Cutting?

Fiber laser cutting is a precise and efficient laser cutting technology that utilizes a laser beam generated through a fiber optic cable to slice through materials.

This technology harnesses the power of fiber optics and a gain medium to amplify the beam, providing a cutting tool that is superior in speed and accuracy.

Fiber laser cutting is ideal for the manufacturing industry, as it supports cutting a diverse array of materials including metals like stainless steel and carbon steel with exceptional edge quality and speed.

How To Select the Right Fiber Laser Cutter?

Selecting the right fiber laser cutter for your needs involves understanding various factors that influence performance and output.

We will help you identify the most critical elements to consider to ensure you invest in a machine that enhances your manufacturing operations efficiently and economically.

Material Thickness

Material thickness is a fundamental factor in choosing a suitable fiber laser cutter. Different machines are equipped to handle varying thicknesses of materials. The key is to select a laser cutter that can manage the maximum thickness you anticipate cutting. Here’s why this is crucial:

  • Cutting Quality: Thicker materials require lasers with higher power output. Using a machine that isn’t capable of handling higher thicknesses can result in poor edge quality and increased wastage.
  • Productivity: The right machine for the required material thickness ensures faster cutting speeds without sacrificing quality, thereby enhancing productivity.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Operating a machine within its optimal range of thickness minimizes wear and tear, reducing maintenance costs and prolonging the machine’s lifespan.

Part Sizes You Want To Produce

The dimensions of the parts you intend to produce are critical in selecting the appropriate fiber laser cutter. The capability to accommodate varying part sizes influences your choice, as the bed size of the laser cutter must match the largest piece you plan to fabricate. Here are aspects to consider:

  • Capacity: Ensure the laser cutter can handle the maximum part size your projects require. This avoids the limitations that come with smaller machines which might not support expansion or larger projects in the future.
  • Flexibility: A machine that offers flexibility in handling various sizes can provide more value, allowing you to take on diverse projects without the need for multiple machines.
  • Precision: Larger machines must maintain high precision even at maximum capacity. It’s important that the increase in size doesn’t compromise the accuracy and quality of the cuts.

Automation Options and Features

Automation plays a pivotal role in modern fiber laser cutting systems, impacting both productivity and operational efficiency. When considering automation, focus on these features:

  • Loading and Unloading Systems: Automated material handling can significantly reduce cycle times and labor costs. Systems that facilitate quick loading and unloading of materials streamline operations and increase throughput.
  • Software Integration: Advanced cutting software can optimize cutting patterns to minimize waste and enhance cutting speed. Look for systems that offer user-friendly interfaces and compatibility with design software.
  • Remote Monitoring and Control: Features that allow you to monitor and control the laser cutter remotely can enhance operational efficiency and enable proactive maintenance.

Total Productivity

Total productivity measures the overall efficiency and output of your fiber laser cutter. To evaluate this, consider the following:

  • Cutting Speed and Quality: The speed at which the machine cuts without sacrificing quality is crucial. Higher speeds with precision are indicators of a superior laser system.
  • Downtime and Maintenance: Analyze the expected maintenance needs and any associated downtime. Machines designed for easy maintenance with minimal downtime contribute to greater productivity.
  • Energy Efficiency: Assess the power consumption in relation to output. Energy-efficient machines reduce operating costs and are beneficial for high-volume production environments.

Financing Options

Investing in a fiber laser cutter involves significant capital, but several financing options can make acquisition more accessible and financially sustainable. Make sure to research:

  • Leases: Leasing a fiber laser cutter can be a viable option if you prefer not to commit capital upfront. Leases often come with the advantage of including maintenance in the contract, ensuring that the machine remains in optimal condition without additional costs.
  • Loans: Loans provide another route to machine ownership, with the benefit of spreading the cost over time. It’s important to compare different loan terms from various financial institutions to secure the best interest rates and payment plans that suit your business cash flow.
  • Grants and Subsidies: In some regions, grants or subsidies are available for manufacturing technology investments. These can reduce the initial cost and support advanced technological adoption in the manufacturing sector.

Selecting the right financing option depends on your company’s financial health, tax considerations, and long-term business strategy. Each option offers different benefits and should be carefully evaluated to ensure it aligns with your operational goals and financial capabilities.

Power Consumption

Considering the power consumption and efficiency of fiber laser cutters is critical when planning for long-term operational costs.

The power consumption of fiber laser cutters varies significantly depending on the machine’s wattage and operational efficiency. Most common models range from low-wattage systems suitable for fine, detailed work to high-wattage systems designed for cutting thick materials. Here’s how power impacts operations:

  • Wattage Categories: Typical fiber laser cutters range from 500 watts to over 6,000 watts. Higher wattage machines can cut thicker materials but will use more power.
  • Average Power Usage: The electricity consumption of a laser cutter depends on the cutting power and operational hours. For instance, a 2,000-watt machine generally consumes about 10 kW per hour, factoring in the total system’s efficiency.
  • Cost Implications: Understanding the power requirements and efficiency of a fiber laser cutter is crucial for managing operational costs. Energy-efficient models, while potentially more expensive upfront, can significantly reduce electricity costs over time.

Table Size

The size of the table on a fiber laser cutter significantly impacts operational efficiency. Here’s why the right table size matters:

  • Handling Capabilities: A larger table allows you to handle bigger sheets of materials like stainless steel or carbon steel, reducing the time spent on repositioning and additional cuts. This can lead to a smoother workflow and less waste.
  • Flexibility in Projects: With a larger table, you can undertake a wider range of projects, from small intricate designs to large industrial parts. This flexibility is crucial for businesses looking to expand their market reach or diversify their product offerings.
  • Efficiency: Properly sized tables reduce the need for multiple setups. Fewer setups mean quicker turnaround times and lower labor costs, which directly enhance productivity.

Selecting the right table size for your fiber laser cutter involves understanding the maximum material sizes you plan to use and the space available in your manufacturing facility.

Versatility

The versatility of a fiber laser cutter is determined by its ability to adapt to various production needs without requiring extensive retooling or setup changes. Here’s what makes a fiber laser cutter versatile:

  • Software Compatibility: Advanced software integration allows for quick adjustments to cutting patterns and settings to handle various materials and thicknesses efficiently.
  • Adjustable Settings: Machines with a wide range of power outputs and speed settings can easily switch between different types of jobs, from cutting thin sheet metal for intricate designs to slicing through thicker plates for structural projects.

Investing in a versatile fiber laser cutter means you can respond swiftly to customer requests and market changes, which is a significant competitive advantage in the fast-paced manufacturing industry.

Material Compatibility

Understanding the material compatibility of fiber laser cutters is essential, as different lasers excel with different materials based on their wavelength and power settings. Here’s how compatibility varies:

  • Fiber Lasers for Metals: Fiber lasers are ideal for cutting metals like aluminum, brass, and stainless steel due to their high precision and speed. The fiber optic cable and the gain medium in these lasers produce a beam that is finely focused yet powerful enough to cut through thick metal efficiently.
  • Versatility with Materials: Some fiber lasers are equipped to handle a variety of materials beyond metals, including plastics and composites, by adjusting power levels and frequencies. This ability allows businesses to use a single machine for multiple applications, enhancing the ROI.

Manufacturer: Reputation and Reliability

When selecting a fiber laser cutter, considering the manufacturer’s reputation and reliability is crucial. Here are the factors to assess:

  • Reputation: Look for manufacturers known for consistency and excellence in the manufacturing industry. A reputable brand is often recognized through industry awards, positive reviews from other users, and a strong presence in the market.
  • Quality of Components: The durability and performance of a fiber laser cutter largely depend on the quality of its components. High-quality parts ensure fewer breakdowns and lower maintenance costs over time.
  • After-Sales Service: Effective after-sales service is essential. This includes access to technical support, availability of spare parts, and the provision of regular service to ensure the machine’s longevity and performance. A manufacturer’s commitment to customer support often reflects in their service agreements and response times.

ACCURL

ACCURL exemplifies a manufacturer with a strong reputation and reliable products.

Established in , ACCURL was among the first in China to produce CNC press brakes and fiber laser cutting machines. Known for their structural analysis and optimal machinery design, they manufacture ultralight, high-precision, high-energy 2D fiber laser cutters.

АCCURL fiber laser cutters are notable for their high dynamics and superior quality, achieving positioning speeds of up to 180m/min and acceleration of 3G. They offer a range of machines equipped with 1 to 30kW IPG fiber laser sources, ensuring suitability for various industrial applications.

ACCURL’s commitment to excellence is also evident in our after-sales service, offering extensive consultation services on machine operation, programming, and maintenance, backed by a supply of original spare parts to guarantee performance and durability.

Software Integration

The integration of sophisticated software is another critical factor in choosing the right fiber laser cutter. Effective software integration can enhance the machine’s functionality, improve user experience, and increase productivity through more efficient operations.

Here are some advantages:

  • Streamlined Operations: Advanced software helps streamline operations by automating many processes that would otherwise require manual input, thus reducing error and increasing efficiency.
  • Enhanced Capabilities: With the right software, fiber laser cutters can perform complex cutting tasks more accurately and quickly, adapting to different materials and designs with ease.
  • User-Friendly Interface: Modern fiber laser machines come equipped with user-friendly interfaces that make it easier for operators to manage jobs and adjust settings on the fly, which is crucial for optimizing workflow and reducing downtime.

Making the Decision: Practical Examples with 3 Different Industries

To give you a more practical approach, we examine three businesses, each differing in size, industry, and operational needs, to illustrate how to choose the most suitable fiber laser cutter for each scenario.

Example 1: Small Custom Jewelry Shop

A small custom jewelry shop specializing in intricate designs on metals like brass and aluminum.

Requirements:

  • Precision: High precision for detailed work on precious metals.
  • Material Thickness: Typically 0.5mm to 3mm.
  • Machine Type: A lower power fiber laser cutter, around 500W to 1kW, which is ideal for cutting thin metals with precision without excessive energy use.

Suitable Fiber Laser Cutter: A compact fiber laser with a 1kW power rating, capable of handling detailed designs on thin metals. The machine should also be equipped with fine control settings to adjust the laser for high precision and minimal material waste, crucial for expensive materials like gold and silver.

Example 2: Medium-Sized Automotive Parts Manufacturer

Production of automotive parts requiring cutting of materials like carbon steel and stainless steel. Requirements:

  • Material Thickness: Up to 12mm thickness.
  • Productivity: Needs a machine that supports high throughput to meet customer orders and maintain supply chain commitments.
  • Machine Type: At least a 3kW to 5kW fiber laser cutter to efficiently handle thicker materials with speed and precision.

Suitable Fiber Laser Cutter: A robust fiber laser cutter with a 5kW power output, featuring automated loading and unloading capabilities to enhance production efficiency. This system should also support fast cutting speeds and include durable components that can withstand the rigors of a high-volume manufacturing environment.

Example 3: Large-Scale Metal Fabrication Facility

Large-scale fabrication of structural components for construction and heavy machinery, dealing primarily with thick metal sheets. Requirements:

  • Material Thickness: Often over 20mm.
  • Scalability and Versatility: Requires a machine that can scale operations up or down based on project demands and handle a variety of metals, including heavy steel plates.
  • Machine Type: High-power fiber laser cutters, preferably above 10kW, with extensive table sizes to accommodate large materials.

Suitable Fiber Laser Cutter: A high-end fiber laser cutting system with at least a 12kW power rating, capable of cutting extremely thick materials. The machine should feature a large cutting table and advanced software integration for managing complex cutting tasks, ensuring precision across large-scale projects.

Additionally, such a cutter should have a reinforced structure to handle heavy materials and high-intensity use, with a focus on minimizing downtime and maintenance costs.

Conclusion

Selecting the right fiber laser cutter is contingent on a detailed assessment of your business’s specific needs, material types, and production demands.

When choosing a fiber laser cutter, consider not only the technical specifications but also factors such as software compatibility, machine durability, and after-sales support to ensure you invest in a solution that effectively meets your operational needs and enhances your manufacturing capability.

Аs, a leading manufacturer of fiber laser cutters, ACCURL is always ready to equip you with all the knowledge you need to make the perfect choice. Feel free to contact us and our expert will answer all your questions.

The company is the world’s best hydraulic shearing machine supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.