Drilling with a fiber laser: the benefits of innovation
Drilling with a fiber laser: the benefits of innovation
Fiber laser drilling of metals has rapidly established itself in the mechanical engineering manufacturing sector. While the CO2 laser had already made it possible to optimise performance and processing times, the introduction of the fiber laser has literally revolutionised manufacturing dynamics. More rapid and efficient, the fiber laser simplifies processing paths with much higher throughputs. Furthermore, fiber laser drilling is also possible on non-conductive metals such as copper and brass.
The fiber laser is the most advanced technology for laser cutting of metals, and drilling has been a direct consequence of this; the beam produced by the laser source is amplified through glass fiber wires and diodes. The energy of the fiber laser beam has a very short wavelength and is more easily absorbed by metals. This is why it is also ideal for cutting brass and copper and allows greater accuracy even for microscopic holes. Metal drilling using fiber lasers is particularly beneficial in a variety of sectors, from automotive to interior design and both light and heavy industry. The power and speed performance of fiber laser systems improves manufacturing efficiency even for the most delicate machining operations.
Fiber laser drilling of metals provides many advantages over both conventional mechanical drilling techniques and CO2 laser systems.
Fiber laser drilling Vs mechanical drilling
Compared to conventional machining, fiber laser drilling produces extremely accurate holes that do not require finishing.
Machining times are significantly reduced, even for large workpieces.
Manufacturing costs are lowered as the fiber laser uses far less energy, even compared to CO2 lasers.
Fiber laser cutting and drilling machines require very little maintenance.
Laser drilling makes it possible to progress continuously with several machining operations, without having to undergo tool changeover or place the workpiece on other machines.
Laser drilling is more environmentally sustainable since it produces no waste material and does not use pollutants.