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Twenty20 Engineering offers a Laser Tube Cutting Service as part of our comprehensive fabrication services. This service can stand alone or complement the fabrication and manufacturing of larger projects.
Laser tube cutting is a process that employs a precise and efficient machine to cut circular, square, and rectangular tubes of varying section sizes and thicknesses. This method utilises a high-powered laser beam to melt, burn, and vaporise the material, resulting in an accurate cut. Additionally, the laser can cut through sections or add a profile to a face, such as creating holes and notches.
Laser tube cutting uses a rotating head to precisely position the tube, ensuring the desired cutting face is always directly exposed to the laser beam. This is crucial for achieving accurate and clean cuts. It's important to note that this rotating head setup is distinct from the flat-sheet processing used in traditional sheet metal laser cutting.
At Twenty20 Engineering, we require 3D CAD models and 2D technical drawings to ensure precise results for laser tube cutting. Our in-house Engineering and CAD Services team can readily create these files for you if needed.
Once we receive and verify the customer-approved manufacturing data, we promptly provide a detailed quote. Upon confirmation, the tube-cutting process commences, culminating in the delivery of the final product, carefully crafted to your exact specifications.
A laser tube cutting machine can precisely cut and shape hollow sections of any size or thickness by following these steps..
Step 1 – Tube preparation: This is a vital step before cutting commences. This involves positioning the tube section precisely in the machine and using fixtures and clamps to hold it securely during cutting. By doing so, we prevent any unwanted movements and guarantee accurate and clean cuts.
Step 2 - Laser Setup: The laser cutting machine utilises a high-powered laser source, either CO2 or fibre, to generate a concentrated beam of light focused on the tube. The specific laser type and its parameters are carefully chosen based on the section size and material thickness being cut, ensuring optimal performance and precise results.
Step 3 – Programming: Advanced Computer Numeric Control (CNC) system regulates laser and tube rotation for precise execution of CAD details, providing accurate cutting of complex tube profiles.
Step 4 – Laser Cutting: Once programmed, the laser machine initiates the cutting process. The laser beam is focused and directed onto the tube, causing it to melt, burn, and vaporise away with precision, being a carefully controlled process that prevents overheating or warping during the process.
Step 5 – Real-Time Monitoring: Throughout the cutting process, operators use sensors and cameras to monitor the machine and tube in real time. This enables them to adjust the machine's parameters as necessary, ensuring the production of high-quality parts.
Step 6 – Post-Cutting Operations: After being cut and profiled, the tube may undergo additional operations and post-processing. This can involve fabrication into a welded assembly or surface treatments such as galvanising and painting.
Step 7 – Delivery to Customer: Twenty20 conducts a comprehensive quality control check and inspection of the tube or fabricated assembly before dispatch, ensuring the product has been manufactured to our customer's specifications before dispatch or collection.
A wide variety of sectors use tube cutting for many different types of projects. Twenty20 Engineering has ten years of experience supporting our customers on a variety of different projects for many different sectors. Some examples of where tube cutting can be used are: