What we recognise as modern flatbed laser cutters evolved from pioneering laser technology developed in the middle of the 20th century. The first laser that could be used as a practical, efficient cutting tool appeared in 1960, paving the way for a raft of improvements and advancements as the practical applications of lasers became more apparent. 

The first 3D laser cutting machines were developed in Italy in 1979, incorporating a system of 5 rotating axes. This innovative concept served as a critical milestone that facilitated a new wave of research and development and led to the invention of the industrial flatbed laser cutters we recognise today.

What is Flatbed Laser Cutting?

Flatbed laser cutting uses a powerful, highly focused laser beam to precisely and efficiently cut materials, especially metals. It is used extensively in fabricating and other industries that value extreme accuracy, efficiency, and the ability to recreate identical cuts repeatedly quickly and effectively.

What are Flatbed Laser Cutters Used for?

Bend-tech flatbed laser cutting machines are used extensively in a vast range of industries, including: 

  • Automotive
  • Aerospace
  • Manufacturing
  • Defence

With an unrivalled ability to produce precise, intricate, and efficient cuts, they are a natural choice for cutting metals, including:

  • Titanium
  • Stainless steel
  • Copper
  • Brass
  • Aluminium and its alloys 

Flatbed laser cutters are also adept at accurately cutting non-metallic materials, including: 

  • Wood
  • Glass
  • Plastics
  • Ceramics
  • Composites 

How do Flatbed Laser Cutting Machines Work?

Flatbed laser cutting machines typically work as follows:

Laser beam generation

Creating an industrial laser beam involves several crucial components and stages, as follows:

  • Sufficient energy source—An energy source, typically electricity, is used to excite the atoms in a suitable medium to a highly energised state
  • Lasing medium—The chosen medium fundamentally affects the outcome, as it determines the properties and wavelength of the generated laser beam. Common lasing mediums include CO2 gas, organic dye dissolved in a liquid solvent (prized for its exceptional range of wavelengths and excellent tunability), or solids like glass or crystal (infused with rare-earth elements)
  • Stimulated emission—As the highly-excited atoms lose energy, they emit photons that stimulate other atoms to emit photons. This creates a chain reaction or ‘stimulated emission’.
  • Optical resonator—One fully and one partially reflective mirror are placed at either side of the lasing medium, creating an optical resonator, while the other is partially reflective. This bounces the photons between the surfaces, amplifying the amount of light emitted. 
  • Laser beam output: The mirror that is only partially reflective allows some of the amplified light to pass, creating a focused laser beam. This beam can be adjusted, focused, and directed and focused for the application in question.

Laser beam focus and delivery

The generated laser beam is sent to the cutting head, typically using mirrors or optical fibres to retain the beam’s power and ensure correct focus.

Cutting head

A laser cutting head is a crucial component of a laser cutting machine. It directs the laser beam onto the material being cut. The standard components and functions of a laser cutting head are as follows:

  • Laser source
  • Collimating lens—A high-quality lens (usually glass or plastic) that converts divergent/convergent light into a parallel beam and aligns it with the desired path
  • Focusing lens—A second lens that concentrates the parallel laser to a fine, accurate point, magnifying its power density for the cutting task
  • Nozzle—To direct the assist gas 
  • Height sensor—Ensures consistent cutting by monitoring and maintaining the correct distance between the nozzle and the material to be cut
  • Protective window—To prevent debris and contamination from reaching and degrading the optical unit

Adjustable flatbed

The stable, horizontal surface that acts as a reliable base for the cutting operation. Flatbeds are typically designed to move horizontally, facilitating the cutting of complex patterns and shapes. 

Cutting 

A focused laser beam is incredibly intense and powerful, heating any material it contacts to the point where it melts, burns, or vaporises (depending on the material in question). The cutting head follows a pre-programmed path, inputted via CNC software (Computer Numerical Control) to cut the desired shape. This allows for incredible precision and creating repeatable, predictable cuts that improve the consistent quality of the end product.

Assist Gas

Laser cutting is a relatively violent, reactive process that produces molten material, smoke, and debris. This is blown away from the cutting zone by an assist gas (usually oxygen, nitrogen, or normal air). A clean cutting area facilitates cleaner cuts, and any material that may re-solidify and attach itself to the edges of the cut are removed.

Finishing

Once the material has cooled down post-cut, additional finishing processes may be employed to create the desired edge, including deburring and polishing.

What are the Features and Benefits of Flatbed Laser Cutting?

Flatbed laser cutting is a game-changer for custom metalwork projects. Here’s how it supports and enhances these projects:

  • Accuracy and precision 
  • Versatility—Flatbed laser cutters can tackle a wide range of materials and thicknesses
  • Extreme efficiency and significantly reduced cutting times—From prototyping to mass production, nothing is more highly prized than efficiency and time/cost savings.
  • Cost-effectiveness—Minimised material waste and reduced finishing processes make flatbed laser cutting a perfect choice for custom metalwork.
  • Flexibility of design adjustments and modifications that minimise downtime
  • High-quality cuts for a superior finish 

Contact Bend-tech

Bend-tech takes great pride in designing and engineering reliable, durable, and consistently performing industrial fabrication tools and software. We leave no stone unturned in the research and development of these incredible machines, and our flatbed laser cutters are no exception. Our commitment to premium quality and conforming with all required Australian standards is unwavering. We are dedicated to providing complete client satisfaction through the impeccable quality of our equipment and with the full backing and assistance of our through-life support services team.

Don’t hesitate to get in touch with the team today to learn more about Bend-tech and our outstanding laser flatbed cutting solutions. We will provide all the information and guidance required to make an astute, informed decision.