Why Proper Fiber Laser Cutting Setup Matters

When working with stainless steel, efficiency and quality go hand-in-hand. A well-optimized cut condition ensures:

Minimal Gas Consumption: Reducing costs without compromising cut quality.

High Cutting Speeds: Maximizing productivity.

Clean Edges: Reducing post-processing time.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cutting Stainless Steel with a Fiber Laser

 

1. Setting Up Your Nitrogen Supply

Regulator Settings: Use a regulator capable of reaching up to 300 PSI. Start low and work your way up until you reach optimal results.

Why Nitrogen? Nitrogen prevents oxidation, ensuring clean, bright edges without discoloration.

2. Choosing the Right Nozzle

Single vs. Double Nozzle: For stainless steel, always opt for a single nozzle when using nitrogen. Double nozzles are better suited for carbon steel with oxygen.

Nozzle Swap: Ensure you've installed the correct nozzle before starting the cut. This one is important!

3. Configuring the Cut Condition

Speed Settings: Input an estimated cutting speed based on the material thickness.

Pro Tip: Start with a focal point near zero and adjust as needed after test cuts.

4. Performing Test Cuts

First Test: Observe the beam to ensure it isn’t "dancing" on the material.

Check for Slag/Dross: Minimal slag indicates good settings, but minor adjustments may be needed for perfection.

5. Optimizing for Perfection

Identify Issues: Slag often occurs during slowdown points in the cut path.

Fine-Tuning: Adjust the focal point slightly to eliminate imperfections.

Final Recommendations

After achieving a clean, slag-free cut:

Save Your Settings: This ensures consistency for future projects.

Replicate with Adjustments: For different stainless steel thicknesses, copy the cut condition and modify speed or focal settings as needed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the Wrong Nozzle: Double nozzles with nitrogen lead to subpar cuts.

Excessive Gas Pressure: Higher PSI doesn’t always mean better quality—optimize for efficiency.

Neglecting Focal Adjustments: Even slight changes can significantly improve cut quality.