Are two laser cutting heads better than one?

With its unparalleled speed and accuracy, the fiber laser has already thoroughly turned the world of laser cutting on its head. So can an additional cutting head offer an additional advantage? This addition allows the user to simultaneously machine one or two separate plates together, independently or in tandem to meet certain cutting requirements. With two cutting heads, sheet metal workers can utilize the full width of their machine. This setup will allow them to process more material in less time, an ideal base for larger or more complex projects with shorter lead times.

In addition to the positive impact on the volume of sheet material that can be handled, two cutting heads offer additional benefits. Starting with cut quality. When two laser cutting heads work very precisely coordinated in tandem, they can achieve perfectly matched cuts to produce pieces of consistent quality that require little or no rework. A trick that can come in handy when chamfering thick plates - an essential step in preparation for welding processes in shipbuilding, in the production of building materials, windmills and pipes. In fact, two cutting heads that both have these capabilities can achieve homogeneous welds with good penetration and reduced heat generation. 

Less cost, more productivity

Second benefit to note: cost and productivity. Although the investment in a laser cutting machine with two cutting heads will be higher, it has no impact on operating costs. Those remain about the same because fiber laser cutting is itself a very energy-efficient process. So you don't need to estimate additional costs for consumables, production or energy. At the same time, the output of the laser cutting machine will be able to double if a second cutting head is added that can cut. This is especially interesting when producing pieces in large series. Consider, for example, subcontracting for the automotive, aerospace and construction industries.

Getting coordination under control

So much for the good news. There are also some challenges associated with integrating a second cutting head for optimal cutting results. One crucial aspect is the control of acceleration during the cutting process. If this is not controlled to perfection, it will result in poor cut quality, extra burr development and the accumulation of molten material. All things you would rather avoid. Meeting this challenge requires sophisticated control systems that control the speed and direction of the cutting heads at all times. Those who master this will find that material is removed more efficiently, while minimizing thermal effects. The result? Clean, high-quality cuts, especially on corners and fine contours. 

Robust mechanical design a must

The mechanical design and construction of the laser cutting machine will also play a role in obtaining accurate cuts with two laser cutting heads. High precision, robust guidance systems, meticulous assembly are necessary. Only when these things are ticked off will one be able to sustain accurate positioning and high cutting speeds when applying the configuration of a dual cutting head system. Those who succeed in coupling a robust mechanical design with sophisticated control systems will, in return, get a process to efficiently handle complex geometry, increase throughput and increase the profitability of their manufacturing process.

A promising choice

Thus, a fiber laser cutting machine equipped with a second cutting head can help increase productivity and quality while reducing operating costs. For sheet metal fabricators who are ready to evaluate their current processes, a second laser cutting head can be a promising choice to realize a competitive advantage.