Laser processing has proven highly effective in applications involving selective ablation: namely, cleaning and marking. Yesterday a novelty, this technology is now widely adopted by manufacturers for a growing range of tasks, optimizing processes that were previously time-consuming, labor-intensive, and unsustainable. If you have been outsourcing these jobs and are now planning to scale or cut costs, we may have a solution for you. Our MegaCenter combines advanced lasers with semi-automated technology inside a CDRH Class I safety enclosure. This cost-effective modular system suits both standalone and in-line cell integration workflows, equipping production lines with cleaning and engraving capabilities.
Read on for the features of each system.
CleanTech MegaCenter: CTIR-5010
Process: Surface preparation of metal and nonmetal materials
Laser Operation Mode: Continuous wave (CW) or pulsed fiber laser
Work Area: 36 in2
Optional Add-ons: Rotary indexer, roller table, fume extraction, automated shuttle
Surface preparation spans across coating and contaminant removal, roughening, pre- and post-weld treatment, degreasing, mill scale removal, and more. The CTIR-5010 integrates a laser source that’s custom-selected for your material composition, as well as your requirements on precision and speed. The cooling system – air- or water-based – will be determined by the laser configuration. Our engineers work with a sample provided by you to ensure that the laser system we deliver uniquely matches your application and production workflow.
Use Case: Drive Shaft Cleaning
In this application, an automotive supplier required automated decontamination of 17-inch drive shafts covered in oil and carbon buildup. The MegaCenter was equipped with a roller table where multiple drive shafts could be loaded by the operator. A high-power pulsed fiber laser with a dual axis cleaning pattern was activated as the drive shafts rotated. The process effectively ablated the contaminants. Simultaneously, a fume extraction system captured the airborne particulates, preventing repeat contamination and protecting sensitive equipment from damage.
For information on how laser cleaning works, follow this link.
LaserTower MegaCenter: LTIE-3010
Process: Marking and engraving of metal and nonmetal components
Laser Operation Mode: Q-switched fiber laser
Work Area: 42 in2
Optional Add-ons: Rotary indexer, fume extraction, automated sliding doors, shuttle table
The LTIE-3010 optimizes direct part marking or 3D engraving for purposes including traceability, regulatory compliance, branding, technical data, and warranty information. This air-cooled system features a Q-switched fiber laser available in various power levels, tailored to meet your specific requirements. For circumferential marking, opt for the rotary indexer add-on. The LaserTower MegaCenter is a very low-maintenance machine, offering decades of consistent, high-quality results.
Use Case: Data Plate Marking
In this application, an equipment manufacturer sought to bring data plate marking in-house as his company scaled and quadrupled output. The workcell in the MegaCenter was configured to incorporate fixture trays where the operator installed multiple anodized aluminum data plates. A low-power pulsed fiber laser marked the plates according to the programmed layout, while the operator simultaneously prepared the next batch using the MegaCenter’s side tables, ensuring continuous workflow and minimal downtime.
To learn about how laser engraving works, follow this link.
The MegaCenter & Safety
The MegaCenter is rated Class I according to CDRH safety standards and features a fully enclosed, interlocked cell with a laser-safe viewing window. This means that the operator needs no protective gear as no hazardous radiation can escape during activation. Should the procedure require an immediate halt, emergency stop buttons are located within reach of the main operating points.
Air pressure is critical for the MegaCenter: it keeps the protective glass in the laser nozzle clean and unobstructed. It is also highly recommended to incorporate a fume extraction system to filter out vaporized particles. Whether removing paint, powder coating, anodization, or engraving into the material itself, laser ablation can release airborne particulates that may pose inhalation risks and potentially harm surrounding equipment. Proper fume extraction and filter replacements will ensure cleaner operations and minimized maintenance downtime.
Your Trusted Provider of Laser Systems
Laser Photonics ($LASE) is a fast-growing U.S. developer of industrial laser systems, serving Fortune 500s, SMBs, and DOD contractors. Joined by established brands CMS Laser and Beamer Laser Marking Systems as our subsidiaries, we are committed to addressing challenges in manufacturing and industrial maintenance by delivering cost-effective laser solutions that optimize surface preparation, marking, cutting, drilling, and welding. For TAA-compliant systems and public sector procurement, contact our defense-focused affiliate, Fonon Technologies.
Ready to learn more? Check out our spotlight of the Robotic Cell in this blog: Laser Cobots Streamline Time-Consuming Surface Prep