Compact 3D Laser Cuts Sheet, Pipe, Formed And Structural Parts

Mazak Optonics Space Gear model SG-U44 is said to be suited for fabrication shops seeking to diversify their markets; automotive parts suppliers building hydro-formed or stamped parts; and machine shops that work with thick plates or tubing. This production laser performs high speed 2D processing of sheet metal and plate; 3D cutting of preformed parts; and 3D rotary cutting of tube, pipe and structural shapes. With its small footprint, the SG can process 4' × 4' sheet or plate. Continuous rated power from 1,500 W to 4,000 W allows processing of steel as thick as 7/8". With its multi-axis torch, the model quickly makes its way around stamped, hydro-formed or spun preformed parts, keeping the cutting head at the optimum cutting angle. In the X and Y axes, 3D capcity is 35.4" and in the Z axis it is 9.6". The multi-axis capability can cut and bevel flat parts in a single setup. In rotary mode, the model performs 2D and 3D cutting of tubing, including rectangular, round and triangular. It can also process C-, H-, I- and L-beams within a 6" diameter. The five-axis torch and simultaneously controlled rotary chuck can make precise angle cuts, weld-prep bevels and advanced contours such as saddle joints, in a single operation. A Robo-feeder option enables the processing of mill-length pipe. The 64-bit CNC incorporates fill-in-the-blank screens to quickly program simple or complex cuts. The companysSpace CAM and FG CAD/CAM software options generate NC code directly from a 3D CAD file, imported or crafted in the system. Space CAM can also generate a program from surface data to quickly make a box-crate fixture to hold formed parts, so no tool room is needed.