Machine Tools – Non-Traditional

The design team at Automation Alternatives knew that in order for a system to be truly cost-effective, it had to combine highly efficient technology with user-friendly operation. According to the company, the RubyLaser FLC does just that and more.

OMAX Corp. announced the release of the new ProtoMAX abrasive waterjet, a compact, self-installed cutting system suited for prototyping and relatively low-volume cutting of almost any material under 2" thick. The ProtoMAX brings all the versatility benefits of large abrasive waterjet cutters in a sleek and economic package that's suitable for small job shops, engineering classrooms, makerspaces and personal use. It's also a handy addition for large shops and fabricators that need occasional waterjet capabilities to complement their other cutting systems.

Jenoptik offers JENOPTIK-VOTAN BIM, a laser robot system for 3D metalcutting of chassis components for the automotive industry. Compared to conventional machining methods, the noncontact laser process minimizes machining times by eliminating the setup time and also reduces the costs associated with tool wear.

MC Machinery's fiber laser offering has expanded to include another option in laser-cutting technology. The new SR-F series from Mitsubishi features a 3m by 1.5m footprint with many of the features and options that are popular in its eX-F laser.

BEA Lasers has announced the availability of its OEM line of lasers for demanding applications, ideal for use in Medical and other OEM applications. BEA lasers are designed for use in levelling, alignment and positioning.

BEA Lasers has announced the availability of its newly designed GPL line of lasers for use in light industrial applications. The GPL series laser diode module system is best suited for general-purpose, medium-duty applications.

An advanced optical cleaning kit is being offered for private labeling to manufacturers and distributors of lasers, cameras and other types of vision systems by Laser Research Optics.

New, high power ultraviolet (355nm) and green (532nm) additions to Coherent's popular AVIA industrial nanosecond laser family extend and improve the performance of microprocessing applications in microelectronics, photovoltaics and related industries. Specifically, the new AVIA 355-55 features a very high (150 kHz) pulse repetition rate, resulting in an average power of 55 watts at 355nm.

A line of CO2 laser optics optimized for cutting and etching thin metals when fabricating filters, strainers and related applications is available from Laser Research Optics. Laser Research CO2 Optics include lenses that feature coatings with < 0.2% total absorption values to keep them cooler and silicon turning mirrors which have an enhanced DMBR coating to provide up to 99.6% reflectivity.

OMAX Corp., a designer and manufacturer of CNC abrasive waterjet systems, has reportedly produced the world's most precise micromachining abrasive waterjet available with the assistance of a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant from the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF).

GF Machining Solutions says its new AgieCharmilles CUT P Series of wire EDMs provides users precise positioning and contouring capabilities for enhanced part quality and productivity. The CUT P 350/550/800/1250 machines feature efficient power generators, robust designs and intuitive human-machine interfaces (HMIs), as well as several automation options for lights-out operation.

A full line of OEM-quality drop-in replacement CO2 optics for lasers used in etching monuments, signs and other stone products is available from Laser Research Optics. Laser Research CO2 optics for popular monument and sign etching lasers are available in 0.75" and 1.5" dia. sizes and feature 4" to 7.5" focal lengths to provide deeper cuts.