Metal Cutting
Kern Laser Systems can be equipped with our innovative pulsed laser technology, which allows for accurate cutting of sheet metal. Commonly cut metals include stainless steel, mild steel and aluminum.
The Automatic Focusing Height Follower, developed by Kern Laser Systems, is one of the key elements for optimal metal cutting. The cutting nozzle is controlled by a capacitance sensor and z-axis motor. The gap between the metal being cut and the cutting nozzle can be adjusted until the desired beam focus is obtained. As the cutting process begins, the height follower will track the surface of the metal and adjust the nozzle in the z axis maintaining a constant focus point while the metal is being cut.
The metal cutting table is constructed of durable grid work, which minimizes the surface contact with the bottom of the metal being cut. The slat file that makes up the grid work is saved onto the computer and replacement slats can be cut on the laser system.
Advanced metal cutting features in the KCAM Laser Software allows for complete control of the metal cutting process. A laser dwell delay is available ensuring the laser pierces through the metal before the motion of the cut begins. The nozzle air pressure can be set independently for the laser dwell, normal laser cutting and jog between parts. The laser’s modulation frequency can be set from 500 – 50,000 Hz to achieve a dross free cut, which eliminates the need for a secondary deburring process.
Time Saver
High Pressure assist gas, such as oxygen or nitrogen, is injected through the metal cutting nozzle. The result is a dross free cut edge that requires little to no deburring.
Low Operating Cost
Laser Cutting is a non-contact process that eliminates the high costs of replacement die stamps, machine center re-tooling and router bits.
Intricate Cutting
Kern’s metal cutting machines are capable of cutting thin gauge metal to shape. A bean kerf of only .004” allows for the most intricate designs to be cut.
LABELS, UID, BARCODES AND QR CODES
Lasers are capable of creating permanent and durable label solutions for UID applications. Anodized aluminum and engravers plastic are just two materials that can be etched and then cut into tags. Specialty materials that are resistant to abrasion, heat and outdoor exposure are also popular in outdoor, marine and corrosive environments.
PIPE JOINTS
Pipes can be cut to shape with the help of a Kern’s rotary attachment. CAD programs will automatically create the cut file based on the pipe diameter, size and angle of the joint required.
CONTROL PANELS & ELECTRICAL PANELS
Control panels are used in a variety of places from medical equipment to CNC machinery. Kern’s metal cutting systems are capable of cutting notches, slots and other cut profiles that are often required in control panel manufacturing. For a majority of manufacturers a large kW size laser is not required to process the thin gauge metal that electrical panels are made from. Kern’s economical 250W and 400W lasers are allowing shops of all sizes to bring their metal fabrication in-house.
AUTOMOTIVE PARTS
Grills, motor covers and custom dash kits are just a few of the automobile accessories being produced by Kern Laser Systems.
COMMERCIAL SIGNAGE
Laser cut signs can be found just about everywhere, including schools, museums, commercial buildings and store fronts. There are many different sign making techniques used and Kern’s laser system can improve the manufacturing process. LED etched, channel letters, inlays and paint backfilled are just a few of the signs Kern’s lasers have helped create over the years.
Dashboards
Dashboards in automobiles and aircrafts can be manufactured by means of laser cutting and engraving.