Cutting sheet metal Common problems

• Check the laser power:

  After prolonged use, the laser power may decrease, resulting in insufficient cutting capacity. If it is determined that the problem is related to the laser power, the laser tube or voltage regulator can be replaced in a timely manner to increase the laser current output and improve the output power.

• Adjust the cutting speed:

  Cutting too fast can cause incomplete cuts, resulting in incomplete penetration. The cutting speed should be reduced appropriately based on the thickness and material of the plate to find the appropriate cutting speed parameters.

• Cleaning and replacing optical components:

  If the surfaces of optical components such as focusing mirrors and reflective mirrors are contaminated with residue, it will reduce laser power. Contaminated reflective mirrors should be cleaned regularly, and focusing lenses should be replaced promptly to ensure that the lenses are free of water, oil, and debris.

• Calibrate the optical path:

  An incorrect optical path will cause the laser energy to disperse, affecting the cutting effect. It is necessary to readjust the optical path and focus until the laser can produce a very round spot on the paper.

• Check the auxiliary gas:

  When the auxiliary gas pressure is insufficient, it is difficult to remove residue, which can result in incomplete cutting. Regularly clean foreign objects from the nozzle, increase the auxiliary gas pressure, ensure the purity of the auxiliary gas, and promptly replace the distilled water in the cooling system.

• Consider material properties: 

  For highly reflective materials such as copper and aluminum, the surface should be polished or coated with light-absorbing material prior to cutting to reduce the impact of reflectivity on the cutting process.

• Confirm the thickness of the sheet metal:

  Laser cutting machines of different power ratings have maximum cutting thickness limits. If the thickness of the sheet metal exceeds the maximum cutting thickness of the equipment, the cut will not be complete. In this case, it is necessary to replace the laser cutting machine with a higher power rating or select sheet metal of a suitable thickness.