Square tubes are widely used in various industries due to their excellent structural strength and versatility. As the demand for precision and efficiency in tubing increases, more and more companies are opting for tube laser cutting machines.

We once had a customer who wanted to inquire about a laser cutter for square tubing, and then how to choose the right equipment? This article will help you gain a deeper understanding of laser pipe cutters from aspects such as machine type, laser power, key configurations, functions, and power consumption.

1. Select the Suitable Model & Laser Power

Before purchasing a laser cutter for square tubing, it is important to first determine the model and power. The model defines the cutting range of the laser tube cutter for square tubing, including tube size, weight, and shape, while the laser power determines the cutting thickness, cutting speed, and stability. What factors should you consider when choosing the machine model and laser power for a laser cutter for square tubing? Keep reading.

Pipe Dimensions

First, you can choose the machine model based on the pipe material, including diameter, side length, length, wall thickness, and weight. Typically, laser pipe cutters on the market can cut pipe lengths of 6m, 9m, and 12m, and can cut square tubes with side lengths ranging from 10mm to 500mm.

The table below lists popular laser cutter for square tubing machine models and pipe parameters for your reference.

Materials and Thickness

Next, you can select the appropriate power based on the material of the tubes being cut, the frequency of material processing, the processing volume, and the thickness of the tubes. Common materials include carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. Generally speaking, the higher the power, the thicker the material that can be processed, and the more stable the operation.

The chart below shows the max wall thickness that can be processed with different power levels.

Note: The parameters in the above table are for reference only. The cutting thickness is also influenced by factors such as carbon content, processing volume, and cutting patterns.

Cutting Precision and Speed

You can choose the appropriate cutting accuracy and speed based on factors like the complexity of the cutting tasks, cut quality, and daily production volume. Common laser cutters on the market offer accuracy within ±0.05mm to ±0.1mm, with cutting speeds ranging from 10m/min to 40m/min, depending on the material and thickness.

2. Laser Source

The laser source is the core component of a laser tube cutter, and its brand and power directly impact the machine’s performance and lifespan. Well-known laser source brands in the market include IPG, Raycus, Trumpf, and Max, among others. You can choose based on budget and cutting requirements

3. Bevel Cutting

Bevel cutting can simplify subsequent processes such as bending and welding, allowing the joint surfaces to fit better and improving the strength of the workpiece. Currently, the bevel angle is ±45°

4. Operating System and Software

The control system and software interface play a crucial role in how easily and efficiently the fiber laser cutter can be operated. Look for a system with an intuitive user interface and advanced features such as auto-cutting path optimization, material nesting, and real-time monitoring.

5. Key Components

To ensure stable and long-term operation, it is important to pay attention to the core components of the metal pipe laser cutting machine, including the laser source, cutting head, control system, machine frame and accessories, electrical and pneumatic systems, servo motors and drivers, chiller, and transmission system.

Additionally, you can choose the tube support system, either auto-follow support or variable diameter wheel support. The follow system automatically adjusts to the shape of the tube (such as deformation or bending), maintaining support as the tube shape changes. It can process a wider variety of tube shapes, including round tubes, square tubes, H-beams, I-beams, etc., but it is more expensive. The variable diameter wheel support is limited to processing standard round tubes and square tubes, and it is more affordable. You can choose based on your specific needs.

6. Automation Features

You can choose automation features based on your budget and production needs. Features like automatic loading/unloading systems, autofocus, and automatic follow are key to improving overall productivity.

7. Machine Footprint and Layout

The footprint of the laser cutter for square tubing plays an important role in determining how much space the machine will occupy in your facility. Before purchasing, you need to consider the layout of your workspace. For example, machines with warehouse or auto-loading systems may require extra space for material handling, storage, and access to the cutting area.

Be sure to assess the available floor space in your shop and ensure that the layout of the machine, material storage, and finished product storage are optimized for smooth workflow and maximum throughput.

8. Power Supply and Voltage

It is well known that industrial power supply standards and voltage differ across countries. Power can be classified into single-phase, two-phase, and three-phase, with voltage ranging from 110V to 380V. The commonly used voltage is three-phase 380V.

If the power supply and voltage of the machine provided by the manufacturer differ from the standards in your region, please contact the manufacturer to confirm the wiring method and have a professional electrician handle the installation.

Conclusion

The key to success is having the right tools. Choosing the right laser cutter for square tubing can help you improve cutting efficiency, processing accuracy, reduce costs, and increase profits. Before purchasing, please select the appropriate equipment based on factors such as material type, tube size, cutting precision, speed, key features, and level of automation.