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 Laser capabilities were added to APP to answer manufacturer's needs for increased part tolerance and edge quality similar to punch press or machining centers. The Bystronic Bystar system uses a 3500W beam of laser light approximately .008" in diameter as the cutting tool. This allows for very tight part geometry with sharp corners and accurate radiuses. The heat affected zone is very small compared to other cutting methods ensuring the finished product's metallurgical integrity.
 The CNC control assures repeatable positioning accuracy to
+/- 0.002" across an area spanning 60"x120". Three dimensional parts are able to be processed through the use of fixturing. Utilizing the full 3500 Watts of available laser power we are able to cut materials to greater thickness, at better quality, and much faster speeds, than lower powered machines. Parts are nested using software that minimizes waste and cutting time.
The Bystronic Bystar laser is a very versatile piece of equipment capable of cutting many types of metals and nonmetals. We specialize in laser cutting carbon steel, stainless steel, high nickel alloy and aluminum. The Bystronic Bystar laser is also capable of cutting nonmetallic materials as well as titanium, brass, and other metals. We consider on request nonmetallic cutting projects as these materials produce byproducts which require greater attention and precautionary measures due to the noxious or toxic gases from the material being burned.
MATERIALS:
CARBON STEEL
The maximum thickness is 3/4" and cut quality at this thickness is largely related to material quality and composition. When cutting carbon steel, oxygen is used as an assist gas to help burn and melt away the material as the laser moves. This process produces a slightly oxidized edge. In applications where an oxidized edge would require a secondary operation, it is possible to use Nitrogen as the assist gas to eliminate this condition, however cutting speed and thickness are greatly reduced.
STAINLESS STEEL
The maximum thickness for "clean cutting" is 1/2". Clean cutting refers to the bright clean edge produced by using high pressure nitrogen as the assist gas. In this application as well  as aluminum, the material is melted and blown away from the cut. The nitrogen also serves to prevent oxidation of the cut edge and cool the part during cutting to reduce edge hardening and heat affected zone.
ALUMINUM
The maximum thickness is between 1/4" and 5/16" depending on the alloy type and quality. Aluminum can be difficult to process because it tends to reflect the beam and absorb the heat from the laser. We have taken special precautions to prevent reflections and have good results cutting aluminum. It is not uncommon to have "feather like" burring on the bottom of aluminum. The burs are generally not difficult to remove via a secondary operation.
NONMETALLIC MATERIALS
The Bystronic Bystar laser is also capable of cutting nonmetallic materials as well as titanium, brass, and other metals. We consider on request nonmetallic cutting projects as these materials produce byproducts which require greater attention and precautionary measures.
ACCURACY:
 The accuracy of the process is dependent on many different variables. The machinery is capable of being programmed in increments as small as 0.001", however material quality, thickness, and part geometry will often govern the accuracy of the final part. The accuracy achieved is generally within a few thousandths of the programmed values. We can address accuracy issues with you on a part to part basis and run samples for your study.
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