Tube Laser Buying Guide

Start with the complete profile envelope

A tube-laser quote should identify every profile shape, minimum and maximum section, corner-to-corner dimension, wall thickness, stock length, weight, material, seam orientation, hole and cut features, finished-part length, production volume and handling requirement.

1. Define profile and chuck capacity

• Round, square, rectangular, oval, channel, angle, beam or other approved profile.
• Minimum and maximum outside dimension, corner radius, wall thickness and weight per foot.
• Whether published chuck capacity is based on diameter, side dimension or corner-to-corner envelope.
• Jaw type, clamping range, pressure, deformation risk and changeover requirements.

2. Define stock length and material handling

Loading length, finished-part length and machine footprint are different. Compare bundle or manual loading, front and rear supports, sag control, stock detection, seam detection, automatic centering, tail material, finished-part unloading and scrap handling.

3. Choose laser power from the actual wall and features

Power affects speed and approved wall-thickness capability, but profile stability, corner geometry, piercing, gas, support, vibration, heat input and edge requirement also govern the result. Require sample parts or a process sheet for critical sections.

4. Review controller and software

Confirm the exact tube controller, nesting software, profile library, seam orientation, common-line support, compensation, bevel or multi-axis functions, license, offline programming, postprocessor and training.

5. Plan the facility

Confirm total machine length, loading and unloading zones, floor, access, electrical service, transformer, chiller, compressed air, assist gas, extraction, crane or forklift, installation, training, warranty, parts and service.

Request a tube-laser application review.