By Olivia Cahoon
Part 2 of 2
Laser cutters are made in an array of different styles, sizes, and capabilities. It is important to find the best laser cutter for a print shop. In part one of this series we discuss the benefits of laser finishing systems and the best environments for them. Here, we include a roundup of the latest devices and standout features.
Laser Cutters
Adams Technologies, Inc. offers the Penta OF flat dieboard laser with the Smart Axis CNC controller. The controller adjusts focus and cutting speed depending on the direction of the cut while compensating for variations and grain in the dieboard. The Penta OF is available in two work area sizes, 98.5×59 and 118×59 inches. The company offers a variety of power configurations with power levels from 750 to 3000 watts.
Axiom America LLC’s FB2400 laser cutting and engraving system is the largest machine in the company’s range of custom machines. Its maximum width is 94.5 inches and can cut materials such as leather, acrylic, ply, cardboard, and paper. The FB2400 engraves images onto surfaces like paper and wood. The air irrigation system attached to the cutting head sends a stream of air to the point of the cut to achieve consistent cleanliness.
CAMFive produces the CFL-CMA1625 laser cutter with a 98.5×70-inch work area. It can operate nonstop with scheduled downtime for periodic maintenance, depending on the workload and materials used. Standard laser tubes are digitally controlled for maximum speed, resolution, and work quality.
Epilog Laser offers its newest addition, the Fusion M2 series. It features a dual source laser and Epilog’s eView camera module, which cuts processed graphics. The Fusion M2 40 is Epilog’s largest laser with a work area of 40×32 inches. The Fusion systems start at low as $8,000 with a 16×12-inch work table.
GCC features the Spirit GLS with a maximum width of 30×24 inches. It includes optional SmartVision CCD for print-and-cut applications. SmartVision is an artificial intelligence system that memorizes printed graphics to perform precise cutting. The Spirit GLS also features TrueImage engraving technology that delivers a smooth engraving edge.
Kern Laser Systems produces high-speed engraving, metal cutting, k-vision systems. The HSE80120 offers the maximum width of the k-vision systems at 80 inches. It uses a nozzle-mounted camera, which automatically measures the dimensions for a matched cutout in the material. All of Kern’s laser cutters 3D engrave and feature the k-vision package, which includes integrated hardware and software for cutting of printed materials.
MCT, Inc. offers the Versa-Tech product line that can be customized with a maximum width of up to 243 inches, otherwise the maximum standard is 120 inches. Versa-Tech handles rigid and rolled goods including sheet feeding and motorized capabilities, whether the material is laser cut, knife cut, or routed.
Paradigm Imaging Group’s SID XL 2513 features a maximum width of 96×52 inches at $27,900. It includes a functional rotary attachment, compressor, and exhaust pump.
Precix Advanced Cutting Technologies features the Evolution laser system, a flatbed sheet laser designed for maximum loading. Its maximum width is 78×120 inches and features a sealed class 4 laser system. According to the company, the Evolution can run nonstop, all day, for years without maintenance and has no mechanical or moving parts to breakdown. The Evolution includes a Precix motion controller, training, installation, and a chiller.
Rose Graphix, LLC offers customizable lasers and standard lasers. Industrial CO2 laser cutters are available at a maximum width of 70 inches. It features an autofocus module, a blade worktable, an optional CCD camera, and optional Wi-Fi control. The business level CO2 is smaller at a maximum width of 42 inches.
Senfeng CNC & Laser Technology USA, Inc. markets the Flatbed Leather laser cutting machine with a CO2 glass laser tube and auto-feeding device. The laser cutter’s width is 70×118 inches and is capable of cutting and engraving metal and non-metal materials.
Techno CNC Systems, LLC’s newest laser cutter is the large format CNC laser cutting system. It features an air pump that blows air through the laser head and blows smoke away from the beam for a cleaner cut. The machine’s water chiller assures the laser remains at the proper temperature. The entire footprint is 48×96 inches and includes lifetime technical support, steel construction, graphic software packages, a vertical blade table surface, and precision linear rails.
Trotec Laser, Inc. markets Speedy CO2 flatbed laser cutters with a maximum width of 59×49 inches. It features patented ceramic Ceramicore laser tubes. The Speedy’s low maintenance design protects the system from dust and debris and it processes at up to 140 inches per second.
Universal Laser Systems, Inc. showcases the ILS12.75 laser cutter. Its maximum width is 48 inches. It offers a modular architecture and rapid reconfiguration that allows for many different materials, dual laser configuration, SuperSpeed, extensive materials database, pass-through, and effluent air cleaning.
Laser Cutters
The market for laser cutting technology is diverse, with many options to explore. Maximum widths, pricing, and features are important qualities to consider when deciding on the right laser cutter for your business.
Click here to read part one of this exclusive online series, Laser Finishing Systems.
Click on the link above to get more information on the vendors mentioned in this article.
Oct2016, Digital Output DOLS1610
