What are the methods to check the cutting quality of laser cutting machines?

Dez 22, 2024

To check the cutting quality of laser cutting machines, the following aspects can be used:

Punching quality:

At the beginning of cutting, a small hole needs to be cut on the surface of the workpiece, and then continue with a linear machining motion. If abnormal sparks, abnormal noise or excessive perforation gap occur during the perforation process, this may be a manifestation of improper laser cutting parameter settings.

Cutting size:

Use a caliper to measure whether the cutting size of the workpiece meets the requirements and does not exceed the tolerance of the laser cutting machine. On the other hand, it is also necessary to check whether the final processing effect is consistent with the expected cutting effect. Incorrect settings or nozzle problems may cause optical path errors.

Processing incision size:

The incision is formed by partial melting of the metal after laser focusing and irradiation. The size of the incision reflects the quality of the laser cutting process.

Roughness:

Check the roughness based on the depth of the vertical lines formed on the cutting surface. If the vertical processing lines are clear and deep, it means that the processing roughness is too high and the cutting quality is poor; if the vertical processing lines are very light, it means that the processing roughness is very low and the cutting quality is good.

Taper:

The taper is the angle of the laser cutting seam from top to bottom. When the cutting parameters of the laser machine are adjusted to the standard value, the cone angle produced by laser cutting of metal plates less than 10 mm is extremely small and can be ignored. If thicker materials are processed, the cutting position of the laser beam will gradually move away from the focus and diverge, eventually expanding the cutting gap and producing a certain cone angle. If the taper is too large, it is usually caused by unreasonable parameter settings.

Burrs:

Check whether there are burrs on the cutting edge. The presence of burrs will affect the cutting quality and require additional deburring work, which will consume additional man-hours.

Machine condition:

Check whether there are signs of wear and rust on the outside of the machine, and ensure that the machine frame and structure are stable and in good condition.

Laser source:

Check whether the laser source is properly aligned and clean, and check whether the mirrors and lenses have signs of wear or damage.

Gas supply system:

Verify the availability and correct pressure of auxiliary gases (such as nitrogen, oxygen), and check whether the gas pipeline has leaks or blockages.

Cutting head:

Check whether the cutting head is properly aligned and focused, and check whether the nozzle and lens have signs of wear or damage.

Axial motion:

Check smooth motion of each axis through full range of motion, verify that there is no backlash or excessive clearance in any axis.

Guideway covers and seals:

Check guideway covers for damage or obstruction and ensure that they can move freely, check seals to prevent contamination of key components.

Cooling system:

Check the coolant level and ensure it is at the proper concentration, check hoses, pumps and heat exchangers for leaks or damage.

Electrical components:

Verify that all electrical components, including switches, buttons and lights, are working properly, and check wiring for signs of wear or damage.

Safety features:

Test emergency stop buttons to ensure they work correctly, and check interlocks and safety guards for proper operation.

Through these checks, the cutting quality of the laser cutting machine can be fully evaluated and its performance and safety can be ensured.

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