May. 19, 2025
A tube laser is a relatively new machine in the fabrication industry. Laser cutting and laser technology for flat sheet and plate metal has been around for a long time and is well-adopted by nearly all serious metal fabrication shops. It is only in recent years that laser cutting technology has been adapted to cut tube and shape lengths.
The machine uses a laser beam to cut metal tubes and other extruded shapes into desired parts. It works by generating a high-powered laser beam which is focused onto the surface of a metal tube. The laser beam melts, vaporizes or burns away the material, creating a clean, precise cut. The cutting process is guided by a computer-controlled motion system that synchronizes both the laser beam and the tube movement to create the desired shape. The system typically includes a laser generator, a resonator that amplifies the laser beam and a cutting head that houses the laser beam and the motion system.
Tube lasers, as one might guess by the name, are great at laser cutting tube. This includes all shapes and sizes of tube, including round, square, rectangular and even oval shapes.
Most customers, however, are unaware that tube lasers also cut a bunch of other shapes, including angle, channel, beams and even custom extrusions.
Tube lasers act very similar to flat sheet lasers when it comes to the types of materials they can cut. CO2 lasers will cut traditional metals that include steel, stainless steel, aluminum and galvanized materials. Tube lasers that use fiber technology will cut all those listed above, plus they can cut copper and brass materials. The main difference between a CO2 tube laser and a fiber tube laser is the cutting technology. Reflectivity has always been an issue for CO2 laser cutting, which is a problem when cutting metals like copper and brass.
Like most pieces of equipment, there are generally size ranges for machines. Some tube lasers are equipped to handle tube shapes as large as 16.00–18.00 inches. Other tube lasers will only handle shapes up to 2.00 inches. Most fabrication shops opt for something in the middle, which will handle tube shapes from approximately 1.00–8.00 inches.
Bigger shaped machines move much slower than smaller shaped machines. The tradeoff is flexibility versus speed.
Some flat lasers do have add-on capacity which allows them to handle small tube shapes. These types of machines often require a fair amount of setup time to transition between flat sheets and tube shapes. In addition, nearly all these machines are limited by the fact that they only cut two-dimensionally. Many shops will claim that they have tube laser cutting capacity, but the reality is that they are very limited in what they can cut.
Dedicated tube lasers, on the other hand, are designed to solely cut long lengths of material. Most tube lasers can handle a full twenty, or twenty-four-foot, length that is common, for example, in something like 2.0 x2.0 x.125 square tubing. In fact, dedicated tube lasers can take bundles of tube and load the lengths on sequentially. The big benefit here is efficiency. Hand loading tube, like one must do when using a flat laser, is easily overcome, as stack-after-stack of tube moves through the machine untouched by human hands until it processes out the back end of the machine.
Another big difference is the piece sizes that can be cut. Flat sheet lasers can only cut maximum lengths of tube that will fit inside the laser bed, generally something less than ten feet. Tube lasers, on the other hand, can usually cut lengths of tube or angle that are up to twenty feet long, even longer in many cases.
Again, back to efficiency, tube lasers cut through part nests inside twenty-foot lengths just like flat lasers cut through part nests on 4×10 flat sheets. That is something that flat sheet lasers cannot do when cutting tube.
Finally, the last big difference between flat sheet lasers and tube laser is 3D cutting. Nearly all dedicated tube lasers can cut on four to five axis. This allows tube lasers to cut odd shapes and sizes like angle or channel or beam. It also allows tube lasers to put chamfers on parts which will often make the parts weld-ready without the need to grind chamfers after saw cutting. Flat sheet lasers, as mentioned before, only cut on two axis, X and Y.
Cutting flat sheet and cutting shape lengths are very different animals. Tube, angle, channel—all these shape types come with much more variability than one would find on a flat sheet or plate. Many are surprised to learn that shape materials often come with bows and even twists.
This does create some challenges when trying to tube laser to very tight tolerances. Most machines can generally maintain +/- .010. Tube laser cutting machines will often use touch-probe technology to reach down and touch the tube before cutting. This technology will create very accurate parts but does slow down the cutting process. Flat laser cutting can often boast +/- .005 tolerances but tube laser cutting will often cap out at +/- .010.
All things considered, .010 is still a very tight tolerance particularly when compared to traditional methods of saw cutting and drilling.
In addition to twists or bends in structural shapes, tube lasers can struggle as they confront the variability between edge radii. Using, again, 2.0 x2.0 x.125 tube as an example—some manufacturers roll tube with .125-edge radii and other manufacturers have .187-edge radii. That small, .062 difference, becomes a big deal when the programmer is trying to make a detailed cut around the tube.
Many times, this can be managed by ordering batches of tube sizes from the same manufactures for consistency.
Another issue is that shape material is often less clean than traditional sheet metals. Rust, debris, dirt and lacquer finish on material can make laser cutting difficult, or at best, slow. Metal suppliers have begun to correct this situation, similar to what took plates on sheet and plate metal, as they realize how important clean shape materials are for the tube laser cutting processing.
More and more, engineers are starting to wake up to the possibilities of tube laser cutting. Shapes and sizes that used to be expensive, or even impossible, to manufacture are becoming possible and much easier. Cutting slots in tube, for example, would have historically required a machining process. Now, cutting slots in tube and other shapes is a piece of cake!
Designing parts with tube laser capabilities in mind gives engineer a wider range of possible outcomes.
More than engineering, however, is the notion of downstream manufacturing. Traditional tube and shape cutting processes are typically done with a saw. Saw cutting is slow and quite inaccurate. Slow cutting is one problem, but inaccuracy creates trouble for subsequent processes downstream in the manufacturing process.
Take, again, our piece of 2.0 x 2.0 x.125 square tube—consider fabricating a simple 3-by-6-foot rectangular frame. In the past, a typical job shop using a saw would miter cut the tube into four, forty-five-degree angled parts. Moving, measuring and setting up the saw to cut parts on forty-five-degree angles is time consuming and, usually, quite inaccurate.
When the parts are cut inaccurately, it creates problems for the welders downstream. Now, the welders are being forced to match parts together that will have variability. Some gaps are wider than other gaps, resulting in more fit-up time. Extra weld on one edge versus another edge pulls the frame out of square. Experienced welders have become good at managing these variations but all of this takes time, time, time.
Tube laser cutting is so accurate that there are no inconsistent gaps or sloppy fits. The resulting benefit is that parts are cut much faster and welded much faster.
Granted, this is a very simple example, but the more complicated the part, the more relevant the solution.
Tube lasers are impacting manufacturing on both the design front and the fabrication efficiency front.
Understanding that outside radii matter is an important part to modeling and creating drawings for tube laser work. Most shops can modify models to match the tube they generally use but engineers often make the mistake of drawing shapes with hard, outside ninety-degree corners.
Some types of aluminum tube and thin wall tube do have tight outside corners, but most tube, channel, angle, etc. have some kind of radiused edge, whether inside or outside, or both.
This, of course, depends on shop capacity, but tube laser cutting is fast—extremely fast! Parts can be turned around in very little time because most tube laser machines can auto-load tube in large bundles and after that it is a simple cut and stack.
This is a very simple process for us at AMF—some simple parts can simply be uploaded into our auto-quoting module online. You can get pricing without even talking to an estimator. More complicated parts can be sent into our estimating team and we can get you pricing in very short order.
Like anything, pricing is generally driven by both complexity and tolerances. High tolerances are often not necessary but become part of standard engineering title blocks. Take a look at your parts and see if you have holes or cut-outs that are called out at unnecessarily tight tolerances. Simple changes like that can make an enormous difference in the part pricing quoted.
Many people are not aware of tube laser technology—they don’t know what they don’t know, so-to-speak. Learning more about tube laser technology is very helpful.
Here’s a couple of things to remember:
Many of our job shop brothers are afraid to outsource tube laser work to a competing shop. We recognize that this is a concern, but again, consider how much faster you will be able to weld your parts together. This translates into direct price savings, which will allow you to, if necessary, provide more competitive pricing, which should result in more work. In other words, it should be providing you with more work, not less.
The wattage of a fiber laser determines its cutting capabilities and speed. The wattage you need will depend on the thickness and type of materials you will be cutting, as well as the cutting speed you require.
For most cutting applications, a fiber laser with a power range between 1-2kw is sufficient. It's good for cutting thin sheets of metal, non-metals, and plastics. This range of power is also suitable for cutting small parts and intricate designs.
If you will be cutting thicker materials, such as aluminum or stainless steel, you may need a higher wattage laser, such as 4-6kw. These lasers are suitable for cutting thicker sheets of metal and can handle more demanding cutting applications.
If you need to cut thicker materials and at high speed, then you will need a higher wattage laser, such as 8-12kw, this range of power is suitable for cutting thicker sheets of metal, particularly in the automotive and aerospace industries.
It's important to consult with experts and research different options to ensure that you choose a fiber laser with the appropriate wattage for your specific application and meets your needs and requirements. It's also important to note that when choosing a laser, it's not only about the power of the laser but also about the quality of the beam, the control system, and the software that the laser machine comes with.
Choosing a tube laser cutting machine can be a complex process, as there are many factors to consider. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when choosing a tube laser cutting machine:
Cutting capabilities: The first and most important consideration is the cutting capabilities of the machine. Look for a machine that can cut the types of materials and thicknesses that you need for your specific application.
Laser power: The laser power of the machine will also play a big role in determining its cutting capabilities. Look for a machine that has a high enough laser power to handle the thicknesses and materials you will be cutting.
Automation: Consider the level of automation that you need for your specific application. Some machines offer more automation than others, which can help to improve efficiency and reduce the risk of human error.
Size and weight of the tube: The size and weight of the tube that you will be cutting will also play a role in determining the right machine for your application. Make sure that the machine can handle the size and weight of the tubes that you will be cutting.
Precision: The precision of the machine is also important, especially if you will be cutting intricate or detailed designs. Look for a machine that offers high precision and accuracy.
Speed: Consider the speed at which you need to cut your tubes. Look for a machine that can cut quickly and efficiently.
Maintenance and cost: The maintenance required and the cost of the machine should also be considered. Look for a machine that is easy to maintain and does not require costly repairs or replacements.
Service and support: Look for a machine that comes with excellent service and support from the manufacturer, this will help you in case you encounter any technical issues.
Ultimately, the best tube laser cutting machine for you will depend on your specific needs and requirements. Take the time to research different options and consult with experts to ensure that you choose the best machine for your application.
The size of the laser cutting table you should buy will depend on the specific needs of your business or project. Here are some factors to consider when determining the size of the laser cutting table:
Material size: The size of the materials you will be cutting will be a major determining factor in the size of the laser cutting table you need. Make sure that the table has a large enough working area to accommodate your materials.
Production volume: Consider the volume of production you need to achieve, the larger the production volume the larger the table size you will need.
Space availability: Think about the space you have available for your laser cutting table, and choose a table that will fit comfortably in your workspace.
Budget: The size of the laser cutting table you choose will also depend on your budget. Larger tables tend to be more expensive than smaller ones.
Future expansion: If you anticipate your business or project will grow and the production volume will increase in the future, consider buying a larger table that will accommodate for the potential expansion.
Types of materials: Some types of materials may require a larger table size due to their thickness or complexity in cutting.
In general, it is always better to choose a larger table if you have the space and budget, as it will give you more flexibility and capacity to handle larger or more complex projects in the future. However, it is important to take into account the specific needs of your business or project and choose a table that is the best fit for your needs.
Further reading:New Hope Laser contains other products and information you need, so please check it out.
Fiber laser and CO2 laser are both types of laser cutting technology, but they differ in several key ways.
Wavelength: A fiber laser uses a wavelength of around 1 micron, while a CO2 laser uses a wavelength of around 10.6 microns. The shorter wavelength of the fiber laser results in a more focused and intense beam, which makes it more efficient and precise for cutting.
Power: Fiber lasers are typically more powerful than CO2 lasers, with outputs ranging from several hundred watts to several kilowatts. This allows them to cut thicker materials and work at faster speeds than CO2 lasers.
Efficiency: Fiber lasers are more efficient than CO2 lasers, as they can convert more of the electrical energy into laser energy. This means that they use less power to produce the same amount of cutting power, which reduces operating costs.
Materials: Fiber lasers are better suited to cutting metals, while CO2 lasers are better suited to cutting non-metals such as wood, plastic, and fabrics.
Maintenance: Fiber lasers have fewer moving parts and do not require regular replacement of the gas or mirrors, which reduces the maintenance cost.
Cost: Fiber lasers are typically more expensive than CO2 lasers, both in terms of initial cost and ongoing operating costs.
Overall, fiber laser cutting technology is more efficient and powerful than CO2 laser cutting technology, making it suitable for cutting thicker materials and working at faster speeds. However, it is more expensive than CO2 laser technology and may not be suitable for cutting non-metals.
The future of laser cutting tables is promising, with advancements in technology and growing demand in various industries. Some of the key trends and developments include:
Increased automation: The use of automation technology is expected to increase in laser cutting tables, with the use of robotic arms and other advanced systems to improve efficiency and accuracy.
Improved precision and speed: With advancements in laser technology, laser cutting tables are expected to become even more precise and faster in the future. This will make it possible to cut even thinner materials and achieve higher levels of accuracy.
Increased use of fiber laser technology: Fiber laser technology is becoming increasingly popular for laser cutting tables, as it offers higher power and efficiency than traditional CO2 lasers.
Greater flexibility: The use of more versatile and flexible laser cutting tables will enable the cutting of a wider range of materials, including non-metals, with high precision and accuracy.
Increased use of 3D printing technology: The integration of 3D printing technology with laser cutting tables will enable the production of more complex and customized parts, increasing productivity and reducing waste.
Increased use of artificial intelligence: With the use of artificial intelligence, laser cutting tables will be able to optimize the cutting process, analyze cutting data, and even predict potential problems and take preventive actions.
Overall, the future of laser cutting tables is expected to be characterized by increased automation, improved precision and speed, greater flexibility and versatility, and the integration of new technologies such as fiber lasers, 3D printing, and artificial intelligence.
A laser cutting table uses a focused beam of high-energy light to cut through a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics, and wood. The process works by directing a high-powered laser beam at the material being cut, which melts, vaporizes, or burns away the material in the desired shape.
The laser beam is generated by a laser source, which can be either a gas laser or a solid-state laser. The beam is then directed through a series of mirrors and lenses, which focus the beam to a small, precise point. The laser beam is directed onto the material being cut by a computer-controlled system known as a CNC (computer numerical control) system.
The CNC system is programmed with the desired cutting path, which it follows by moving the material being cut and the laser beam in precise X, Y, and Z directions. As the laser beam cuts through the material, it is cooled by a stream of gas, such as nitrogen or oxygen, which helps to prevent the material from catching fire and also helps to remove any debris generated during the cutting process.
Once the cutting is complete, the material is removed and the next piece is placed on the table for cutting. The process can be repeated multiple times, allowing for the efficient and precise cutting of large quantities of material in a short amount of time.
Overall, laser cutting tables are widely used in manufacturing, prototyping, and many other industries because of their high precision, speed, and flexibility. It is also versatile, which can cut a wide range of materials with minimal distortion, heat affected zone and burr.
When choosing the best laser cutting table for your needs, there are several factors to consider:
Power and beam quality: The power and beam quality of the laser cutting table is an important factor to consider. The higher the power of the laser, the faster and thicker materials can be cut. The beam quality refers to how well the laser beam is focused, which affects the precision and accuracy of the cuts.
Material size and thickness: The size and thickness of the materials you will be cutting will also affect your choice of laser cutting table. Make sure that the table has a large enough working area to accommodate your materials and that it is capable of cutting the thickness of materials you will be using.
CNC system: The computer numerical control (CNC) system is the brain of the laser cutting table, controlling the movement of the laser beam and material. Make sure that the CNC system is easy to use and program and that it can handle the complexity of the cuts you need to make.
Cooling and gas systems: The cooling and gas systems are important to consider as they help to cool the laser beam and remove debris during the cutting process. Look for a laser cutting table that has a reliable cooling and gas system that can handle the demands of your cutting needs.
Maintenance and service: Laser cutting tables require regular maintenance and service to keep them running smoothly. Look for a manufacturer that offers good customer service and support, and make sure that replacement parts and service are readily available.
Price: The price of the laser cutting table is also an important consideration. Make sure that you are getting a good value for your money, and that the table meets your needs and budget.
Overall, the best laser cutting table for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. It is important to consider the above factors and choose a laser cutting table that can meet your cutting needs, is easy to use and maintain, and is within your budget.
When choosing the best plasma cutting table for your needs, there are several factors to consider:
Power: The power of the plasma cutter is an important factor to consider. The higher the power, the thicker materials can be cut. Consider the types of materials you will be cutting and choose a plasma cutter that can handle the thickness of those materials.
Cutting speed: The cutting speed of the plasma cutter is another important factor to consider. Look for a plasma cutter that can cut at high speeds for efficient and quick cutting.
CNC system: The computer numerical control (CNC) system is the brain of the plasma cutting table, controlling the movement of the plasma torch and material. Make sure that the CNC system is easy to use and program and that it can handle the complexity of the cuts you need to make.
Durability: Look for a plasma cutting table that is made with durable materials and has a sturdy construction. It should be able to withstand the demands of your cutting needs.
Safety features: Safety features such as a shield for the plasma torch, an automatic shut-off system and an emergency stop button are important to ensure the safety of the operator and the machine.
Price: The price of the plasma cutting table is also an important consideration. Make sure that you are getting a good value for your money, and that the table meets your needs and budget.
Support and maintenance: Consider the availability of the manufacturer's support and maintenance services before making a decision. It is important to have easy access to parts and service when needed.
Overall, the best plasma cutting table for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. It is important to consider the above factors and choose a plasma cutting table that can meet your cutting needs, is easy to use and maintain, and is within your budget.
ROI (Return on Investment) is a measure of the financial performance of an investment and is used to evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of a particular investment. The ROI of plasma cutting tables versus laser cutting tables can vary depending on the specific application and requirements.
Plasma cutting tables are typically less expensive than laser cutting tables and are more suitable for cutting thicker materials. They are also more efficient at cutting through metals that are not conductive, such as aluminum and stainless steel. The initial investment for a plasma cutting table is generally lower than that of a laser cutting table, which makes it a more cost-effective option for small businesses or those on a budget.
On the other hand, laser cutting tables have a higher precision and accuracy than plasma cutting tables. They are also capable of cutting thinner materials and have a lower operating cost in the long term. They are more suitable for cutting intricate shapes, patterns, and fine details in a wide range of materials. The main drawback of a laser cutting table is that it is more expensive to purchase, install, and maintain.
In conclusion, the ROI of plasma cutting tables versus laser cutting tables can vary depending on the specific application and requirements. For those who are looking for a cost-effective solution, a plasma cutting table is a good option, while those who require higher precision and accuracy should consider investing in a laser cutting table.
A laser cutting table uses a focused beam of high-energy light to cut through a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics, and wood. The process works by directing a high-powered laser beam at the material being cut, which melts, vaporizes, or burns away the material in the desired shape.
The laser beam is generated by a laser source, which can be either a gas laser or a solid-state laser. The beam is then directed through a series of mirrors and lenses, which focus the beam to a small, precise point. The laser beam is directed onto the material being cut by a computer-controlled system known as a CNC (computer numerical control) system.
The CNC system is programmed with the desired cutting path, which it follows by moving the material being cut and the laser beam in precise X, Y, and Z directions. As the laser beam cuts through the material, it is cooled by a stream of gas, such as nitrogen or oxygen, which helps to prevent the material from catching fire and also helps to remove any debris generated during the cutting process.
Once the cutting is complete, the material is removed and the next piece is placed on the table for cutting. The process can be repeated multiple times, allowing for the efficient and precise cutting of large quantities of material in a short amount of time.
Overall, laser cutting tables are widely used in manufacturing, prototyping, and many other industries because of their high precision, speed, and flexibility. It is also versatile, which can cut a wide range of materials with minimal distortion, heat affected zone and burr.
There are several reasons why laser cutting tables may be preferred over plasma technology:
Precision: Laser cutting tables can produce more precise cuts than plasma cutting tables. This is because the laser beam is smaller and more focused, allowing for greater control over the cutting process.
Materials: Laser cutting tables can cut a wider range of materials than plasma cutting tables. This includes materials that are difficult to cut with plasma, such as reflective materials like aluminum and copper.
Speed: Laser cutting tables can cut faster than plasma cutting tables, especially for small or detailed cuts.
Quality of Cut: The kerf (width of cut) of laser cutting is narrower than plasma cutting. This is important when tight tolerances are required.
Non-contact cutting: Laser cutting is a non-contact process, meaning the laser beam does not physically touch the material. This can reduce the risk of material deformation or warping.
Cost: Laser cutting tables tend to be more expensive than plasma cutting tables, both initially and in terms of ongoing maintenance costs.
Safety: Laser cutting tables produce less harmful emissions than plasma cutting tables, making them safer to use in enclosed spaces.
It's worth noting that the choice of laser or plasma cutting technology will depend on the specific application and the materials being cut.
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