What started in a southern Indiana garage has become a nationally recognized name in the world of MDF cutouts and custom printing. Learn how Randy Elliott, CEO of Diverse Woodworking, transformed his growing business with the help of Kern Laser Systems, boosting precision, expanding production, and forging a partnership built on trust, reliability, and top-tier customer support.
In this blog, we’ll highlight some of the more usual maintenance errors and how to avoid them to keep your Kern Laser System running at its best.
In this post, we’ll offer some guidance on finding the right laser system for your business.
Kern Laser Systems was recently named as the recipient of the Minnesota Governor’s International Trade Award for Manufactured Goods. Read about this prestigious award in our latest press release.
Productivity and ease of use are essential for any business, which is why we’re thrilled to introduce the OptiShuttle, a game-changing dual table system designed to streamline your workflow and boost efficiency.
In this post, we’ll offer some insight on Kern’s movement to building it’s own laser source and the creation of Kern Technologies.
We are excited to announce the release of our newly updated FiberCELL laser system, packed with advanced features designed to enhance efficiency and precision. The FiberCELL 50″ x 50″ now includes a manual pullout processing table with an integrated vacuum system, which holds thin metals flat to the table during processing, ensuring precise cuts and consistent results. Additionally, a parts collection drawer has been integrated,
In this post, we’ll discuss how our new parts handling system process can increase speed and efficiency in your business.
In this post, we’ll discuss achieving that perfect, fire-polished edge on acrylic sheets with the Fire Warden.
Kern Laser Systems was announced as a 2024 Minnesota Manufacturing Awards honoree by the Minneapolis St. Paul Business Journal. The Business Journal will feature all 2024 honorees in the July 19 Minnesota Manufacturing Awards special section.
In this post, we’ll offer some guidance on the features that contribute most to a laser’s versatility.
According to Digital Journal, paraphrasing a Market Research Future analysis, the laser cutting machine market is on track to reach a nearly $6 billion value by 2030. Growth in the industry is driven by a number of factors, including growth in several manufacturing sectors that rely on laser cutting. At the local scale, we see trends among our customer base too. In this post, we’ll
Foam is one of the easiest materials to cut with a laser cutting machine, and Kern laser systems are some of the best machines you can buy for cutting foam.
Our KCAM software offers a solution to this problem with its dynamic power ramping capability so your materials never have over-burn, discoloration, or other unwanted cutting artifacts. Learn more.
A key element of this flexibility is the ability of all Kern laser systems to operate in a super pulsed mode, during which the laser peak power will greatly exceed its rated average output wattage.
A common application for laser cutting machines is cutting and etching metal and plastic plates for ID nameplates and labels. Laser processing offers the user tremendous time savings over manual processes in this area, and our laser systems are excellent choices for this kind of work.
“There are many things that make our business unique, but the personalization we offer as a one-on-one type of service really stands out,” shared Tom Malzacher, owner. “I do many things on my Kern machine as well as 3D engraving, which is not offered in many places.”
In CO2 laser systems, there are two common types of power supply that can be used to excite the gas molecules in the laser module: direct current (DC) and radiofrequency (RF). In this article, we’ll take a look at the differences between these two power supply types.
We have 8 Kern machines now – they’re an integral part of our business,” shared owner Ben VandenWymelenberg. “Using their systems, Kern allowed us to create new products in new verticals and ultimately, diversify our business. If I had to describe them in just a few words it’d be reliable, responsive, and…”
In CO2 laser systems, there are two common types of power supply that can be used to excite the gas molecules in the laser module: direct current (DC) and radiofrequency (RF). In this article, we’ll take a look at the differences between these two power supply types.
In CO2 laser systems, there are two common types of power supply that can be used to excite the gas molecules in the laser module: direct current (DC) and radiofrequency (RF). In this article, we’ll take a look at the differences between these two power supply types.
In CO2 laser systems, there are two common types of power supply that can be used to excite the gas molecules in the laser module: direct current (DC) and radiofrequency (RF). In this article, we’ll take a look at the differences between these two power supply types.
There are three types of cores commonly available in the current CO2 laser market: metal, glass, and ceramic. At Kern, all of our laser systems have metal-sealed cores, which we consider to be the best, most proven design. Let’s compare some key aspects of these three common core types.
There are three types of cores commonly available in the current CO2 laser market: metal, glass, and ceramic. At Kern, all of our laser systems have metal-sealed cores, which we consider to be the best, most proven design. Let’s compare some key aspects of these three common core types.
Kern offers many optional additions to our standard laser systems to allow users increased flexibility, both in terms of the materials they process on the laser and the ways those materials are processed. For this post, we’ll put the spotlight on one of these add-on features: the rotary attachment for pipe and tube cutting.
Here are five business categories that should consider using laser-cutting machines in their production processes, as well as descriptions of the ways these machines can benefit them.
A current AI-related concept with relevance to manufacturing is I/O (input/output), which refers to the transfer of data between systems. I/O allows machines to communicate with each other during the manufacturing process.
In this blog, we dispel some common myths and misconceptions about lasers, specifically about laser-cutting machines like those we manufacture and sell.
Many of our customers, and those in the industrial laser industry, know Kern as a reputable US manufacturer of laser cutting and engraving systems. Kern has been manufacturing laser systems since the early 90’s and has thousands of systems in the field working on a wide spectrum of applications. Up until 2012 Kern partnered with various vendors to supply the “heart” of our laser system,
A good laser cutting or engraving system is a versatile machine that will allow a knowledgeable operator to produce a high-quality product using a variety of materials. That being said, a single laser may not be the appropriate choice for every application. You don’t necessarily need a high-powered CO2 laser system if you’re only using it to cut sheets of foam for furniture padding. Depending
Sheet metal cutting lasers are complex precision tools. When they are working at their best, they should be consistent: doing the same job to the same standard of quality, day-to-day. However, some components on a laser system are designed to be replaced, and failure to keep up regular maintenance can lead to a lower-quality product. In addition, a complex system like a laser cutter presents
If you are looking into acquiring a laser cutting machine for your business or other projects, you may be feeling overwhelmed at the many types of lasers, levels of specifications, and price points out there today. And you may wonder what kind of under-the-hood differences there are between, for example, a laser system manufactured overseas and a U.S.-built laser system like those we offer at
To the layperson, the word “laser” can bring to mind some exciting, but perhaps not altogether comforting images out of popular culture: lightsabers and other sci-fi weapons from Star Wars, lasers used for security or intimidation in spy thrillers, laser-guided missiles, and submarines. And of course, lasers bring a more modest set of real risk factors associated with their improper use or malfunction—eye injuries, burns,
We are happy to announce the release of new versions of our FiberCELL and LaserCELL laser systems with 52” x 100” laser tables. These larger format configurations will be available in addition to the existing 52” x 50” versions of each model. 52” x 100” is our most popular size for laser systems, including our entry-level EcoFlex and flagship Optiflex systems. This size allows for
The story of laser manufacturing in 2023 and beyond looks to be one of continued growth in spite of lingering economic headwinds from pandemic recovery, supply chain challenges, and the general economic volatility of recent years. What trends and changes in the laser manufacturing industry are likely in 2023? The fiber laser industry is predicted to grow by approximately 880 million dollars between 2022 and
We are updating the wattage of our mid-range lasers, replacing the KT250 and KT400 models, which are rated at 250 and 400 watts respectively, with the new 300-watt KT300 and 500-watt KT500. About the Model Upgrade The KT250 and KT400 model lasers were introduced in 2016, and since that time the teams at Kern Laser Systems and Kern Technologies have continued to advance our lasers’
An important part of any laser system that often gets overlooked is the vacuum blower system. An adequate vacuum system is essential to remove the fumes and small debris that are created during the laser cutting and engraving process. This blog will highlight Kern’s complete blower system, optional upgrades and dives into tips and tricks for more efficient fume removal. Vacuum blowers are included as
Please enjoy this article written by Scott Snell, Technical Sales Manager, with Purex. The article is a great recap of fume extraction and how it relates to laser systems. WHAT IS FUME EXTRACTION? Fume Extraction is an engineered control method to capture fumes from processes that generate them… When we talk about Fume Extraction in the realm of Laser operations, we are typically talking about
MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) is a strong, engineered material made of wood fibers, wax, and resin. The ability to laser cut profiles and engrave deep numbers and logos has much money-making potential in the crafting, signage, interior design, and furniture industries. Laser cutting is an easy way to process shapes with minimal scrap material. A common problem I see from customers who are trying to
Cabin Digital LLC is a small company in Fredericksburg VA. We provide rapid prototyping services to the government and commercial clients. About 18 months ago we made a decision that a CNC laser cutter/engraver might be a good next tool to complement our CNC Plasma cutter, 3D printer and the rest of our team’s tools. That started our journey and we share this with our fellow
In the many years Kern has been in the laser industry one thing has always been true: Customers want more power to engrave quicker and cut thicker material faster. In 2013 we developed our first laser with a rated power of 150 watts and released it to the market. Soon after, customers were asking for more power. In 2016 we released a 400-watt laser that
KERN LASER SYSTEMS CUSTOMER TESTIMONIAL “I found Kern Lasers, and it changed my life.” Spider Johnson is a professional artist and a proud owner of a Kern laser system. In today’s post, I’ll be sharing a video featuring Spider’s journey through both buying a Kern laser and operating it for 15 years. AUTOMATING MANUAL PROCESSES It all began when Spider Johnson was looking for a
What is a company without its employees? Who would be there to help customers? To build products? To pack and ship replacement parts? At Kern Laser Systems, we don’t like to imagine a world without employees. After all, most of the work we do just needs that special touch. It needs the kind of attention that can only come from people who are passionate and
Cutting mild steel with a CO2 laser isn’t just possible, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking clean, consistent and precise cuts. In this post, we’ll be discussing tips for laser cutting mild steel. When equipped with the laser cutting option, Kern’s CO2 lasers are quick and efficient at mild steel cutting. The following tips will help operators be successful: 1. MATCH MATERIAL THICKNESS AND
Without a doubt, one of the things that makes Kern Laser Systems special, is our employees. The pride they have in their work, and the work ethic that they show up with, day in and day out, is unmatched. Our laser systems are powerful and industrial-grade, but they don’t have anything on our employees. As I’ve mentioned before, I might be a bit biased, but we
For small business owners and entrepreneurs, it can feel like long days and late nights spent working is just part of the gig. But sometimes, getting more done doesn’t have to mean working more time. In fact, by investing in the right equipment, it’s possible to improve manufacturing efficiency and give yourself some much needed time to breathe. HOW TO IMPROVE MANUFACTURING EFFICIENCY While it’s
Depending on the material you are engraving—whether it’s wood, acrylic, laserable plastics, marble, granite, aluminum, anodized aluminum—you’re going to have different settings for DPI (dots per inch), air pressure, speed, and power to create the best resolution on the end product. So, creating the best resolution is a combination of the right settings and the right application. In this article, we’re going to share some of
What do we want our monuments to do? Should they be an open and honorable representation? Should they provide an emotional response within those who view them? Should they showcase the love and appreciation we hold for the people, places and pets who impacted our lives? Whatever it is you want a stone monument to accomplish, you can do it with laser engraving. CO2 LASER
Aluminum is one of the more challenging materials to laser cut. That’s not to say it can’t be done, but it does require a bit of expertise. Among other things, it can be difficult to create a clean-cut edge when laser processing aluminum. In this post, I’m going to cover some of the properties that make aluminum a challenging material for laser processing and provide
We know lasers are excellent at cutting and engraving smooth, flat surfaces, but what happens when the material or object you want to work with is round? With the pipe rotary attachment option, flat table laser systems can process all sorts of cylindrical items like pipes, rods, canes, walking sticks, flashlights, tumblers and liquor bottles. Basically, if it is cylindrical in shape and made out
Laser engraving can take some getting used to. Even seasoned operators will find themselves confronted with the occasional head-scratcher during a laser engraving project. Below, I’ve outlined a handful of laser engraving tips and techniques to help you avoid costly mistakes. What are some of the common mistakes laser owners and operators make that end up costing them in the long-run? Here are four laser
Kern laser systems are used within a wide range of industries. Here’s a list of the industries we serve, along with some examples of the materials and products lasers processed for these industries. AEROSPACE Within the aerospace industry, laser cutting is heavily relied on. Parts and components that go on to support aircrafts, military defense and space exploration rely on the accuracy, cleanliness and precision
It shouldn’t be a secret that what makes a company great is its people. Products are designed and created by people and services are provided by people. Now, we may be a bit biased, but here at Kern Laser Systems, we have some of the best people around. Our team members, at every level of the organization, make direct contributions to Kern’s success as a
When’s the last time you had to shut down to wait for laser repair or maintenance? Whether you’re operating a laser out of a job shop, small business or for a larger production outfit, downtime due to equipment failure is never a good thing. Nowadays, profit margins are tighter than ever, and CO2 laser repair services aren’t always easy to access. By paying attention to
Laser systems are a large investment. Especially the good ones. And just like any other investment, laser systems come with some responsibility. Routine maintenance provides two key benefits: Keeps the laser system running properly and producing parts to the best of its ability Prolongs the life of the system components to increase ROI Paying attention to maintenance supports both the well-being of the laser machine
When you’re in the laser business, you get a lot of questions. Below, we’ve answered 10 of our most frequently asked questions. CAN A CO2 LASER CUT METAL? Yes. A properly outfitted CO2 laser can cut metal. We’ve developed a metal cutting option, which allows CO2 lasers to cut metals with relative ease. We’ve been doing it for years. HOW THICK OF MATERIAL CAN I
At Kern Laser Systems, we’ve cracked the code on combining low wattage CO2 lasers and metal cutting applications. Our customers have been doing it for years! Request a demo to see it for yourself or keep reading to learn more. Here at Kern Laser Systems, we’ve developed metal cutting technology that enables CO2 lasers of 100 to 650 watts to quickly and efficiently cut metal. This technology
Camera vision systems are nothing new. Various areas of industry have been using them since the 1980s-90s. Why? Because industrial camera systems can perform quality assurance checks and support consistency among mass produced products and components. On lasers, vision cameras go a long way in supporting quality and consistency via course correction. Here at Kern Laser Systems, we offer a machine vision camera called k-vision.
When laser cutting an acrylic sheet, the last thing you want to see is an uneven cutting edge or surface — or even worse, your cutting kerf turning white while processing colored acrylic. Armed with a few quick tips, anyone can increase their skills in cutting thick acrylic with a laser cutter. Acrylic is one of the top materials chosen for laser processing. That’s partly because
When it comes to cutting or marking metal, there are multiple options to choose from, the two we carry are CO2 and fiber laser systems. Our fiber lasers are going to be a good choice when you’re looking to cut thicker metals and when you want to operate at faster speeds. However, if what you’re looking to accomplish is to cut thinner gauged metals,such as
When it’s done well, 3D laser engraving yields stunning results. Here’s an inside look at the process of 3D wood laser engraving, along with some examples of what others have created. First, let’s discuss how 3D engraving is different from surface engraving. WOOD LASER ENGRAVING: SURFACE VS 3D Surface engraving is a way to mark or etch materials, and it relies on a lighter wattage.
The COVID-19 crisis has placed intense pressure on companies as we strive to maintain (and potentially future-proof) bottom-line revenue amidst possible shutdowns, corporate mandates, and operational changes. As the pandemic is teaching us, unique challenges require unique solutions as well as pivoting where required. At Kern Lasers, we’re always impressed with the work our customers do and appreciate where our efforts help them achieve theirs. Now, more
MN Laser Technology Family Business Kern brothers combine two related laser-tech companies with growing international market From their headquarters in rural Wadena, Kern Laser Systems and Kern Technologies are family businesses that have partnered with national players as large as Lockheed Martin, Boeing, NASA, and the U.S. military. They even have an international presence in Australia, the United Arab Emirates, and Japan. “We have a machine in every continent
We hope this article helps you better understand the purge requirements of your laser system. With proper purge gas setup and consideration, your lasers performance and lifetime will be improved. WHEN TO PURGE Kern’s 250 watt and greater laser systems require a purge gas connection. This includes Kern’s CO2 and fiber laser systems. WHY PURGE? The purge gas serves two ultimate purposes. First, is prevents
I can only imagine what it was like a hundred years ago. I often find myself captivated by old technology, rich landscapes, and unique faces as I stare into timeworn magazines. Why do we love images so much? They say a photo is worth a thousand words and I believe a large mural can convey, with just a single still image, a story in spirit
The k-vision package is a fully integrated hardware and software solution that allows for accurate cutting of printed materials. This process starts with a nozzle mounted camera which automatically measures the dimensions between registration marks on printed materials. The following are a few tips to consider when creating registration marks. SHAPE The shape of a registration mark is a critical factor. The K-VISION camera can recognize a
Nozzles Do you know when and why to switch nozzles on your optic assembly? Did you know there are different nozzles for your optic assembly that allow for better quality cuts? Depending on what substrate you are cutting or engraving, choosing the right nozzle may help you in processing your material, improving your quality while minimizing wear and tear on your equipment. From acrylic to
Paper Honeycomb This product is an alternative solution to using standoffs, acrylic slats or aluminum honeycomb. Paper absorbs the laser’s energy and does not result in flashbacks or tick marks on the backside of the materiel being processed. Kern’s paper honeycomb features a flame retardant coating which reduces the chance of fires and prolongs the honeycombs life. This product is best used for applications with
HOW TO CREATE A MIXED MEDIA GIFT USING A LASER How do you say “Thank You” to an outstanding client or customer? Nick Caito of SBC Laser demonstrates his take on adding a personalized touch to a unique gift. In this Platinum Partner build, Caito mixes steel, acrylic, and brass with a combination of laser cutting and engraving with his Kern 400W HSE laser system.
Dad and 3 Sisters Start a Customized Laser Business See how the three sisters of Family Laser started their company, why they chose a Kern system, and how they use their system for custom laser cutting and engraving. President and Designer Amie Roberts, along with her sisters Amber and Ashley, explain how Kern’s laser cutting equipment factored into rapid growth for their new company and
A Custom Trophy Build Do you have a need to process wood, plastics, metals and foams with one machine? Kern offers this versatility for a wide spectrum of customers and ultimately their imagination is their only limitation. MX Trophies, a Kern customer, uses their creative skills daily to produce custom awards, plates and medals. The ability to personalize individual products to each event allows them
Custom tool kit We can all agree that a well organized workspace is key to getting the job done quickly and efficiently. Because every profession requires specific tools for the job at hand, it’s important to have them arranged in an order that works best for you. Today’s tip will show you step-by-step how easy it is to create a custom foam tool kit using your Kern
Reducing Back Splatter / Reflection Many of you have likely experienced the disheartening feeling of opening up a lens assembly and finding pits or a complete rupture of your focusing lens. These special optics can be an expensive maintenance item, especially when processing materials that tend to generate high levels of back splatter. SPLATTER 101 Splatter refers to small particles of metal that are released
Longtime Kern Lasers employee, Jake Shaw, has created a vast library of technical support videos focused on installation, training, and maintenance of Kern’s laser systems. This week Kern is focusing on the importance of maintaining your chiller system. Common chiller maintenance procedures include checking for water leaks, cleaning/replacing filters and replacing chiller fluids. The five video links below highlight maintenance on the Polyscience and S&A chilling
Laser Room Walk-Through Marketing Coordinator, Adam Voigt, walks through Laser Testing Room 1 and demonstrates the OptiFlex, HSE and FiberCELL laser systems. For more information on Kern’s complete line of laser systems, please email our friendly sales team or give us a call at 218-631-2755.
TARGET FIELD – HOME OF THE MINNESOTA TWINS A long time Kern customer, Tim Pawelk, recently completed a multi-piece project for the new Target Field baseball stadium. Large format murals, stone etching and plastic panels were just a few of the tributes that comprised this job.