Purchasing laser equipment is a significant investment that requires careful consideration of various factors. To avoid unnecessary losses, it’s crucial to steer clear of common misconceptions during the selection of laser equipment. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:
I. Mistake 1: Focusing Solely on Price, Ignoring Quality
When power and specifications appear similar, many are tempted to choose the least expensive option for selection of laser equipment.
Domestic Laser Resonator Comparison: For the same power output, prices of domestic laser resonators from different brands can vary significantly. This difference often reflects variations in component quality, technological expertise, and after-sales service. The initial cost savings might be offset by higher maintenance and downtime later.
Imported vs. Domestic Laser Resonators: Surface specifications may seem comparable, but the underlying quality can differ greatly. Lower-priced equipment often compromises on components and raw materials, leading to reduced stability and frequent issues down the line. This can result in greater actual losses, negating the initial cost savings. Careful selection of laser equipment is critical.
II. Mistake 2: Assuming Lower Power is Always More Cost-Effective
Even if lasers with different power levels can cut the same material thickness, opting for the lowest power isn’t always the most economical choice. For example, a 2000W or higher laser can cut 10mm carbon steel. However, the cutting efficiency varies significantly with different power levels. Therefore, consider budget, production capacity requirements, product characteristics, and other factors to determine the most suitable power level for optimal efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Proper selection of laser equipment should consider production needs.
III. Mistake 3: Seeking a “Universal Machine”
Trying to solve all processing needs with a single piece of laser equipment – such as cutting tubes, sheets, and various irregular shapes – is often counterproductive. To accommodate multiple functions, the machine’s primary function might be compromised, resulting in mediocrity across all tasks. While laser cutting machines are versatile, they aren’t all-purpose. Choose equipment with a stronger focus on your primary processing requirements. This is important when making a selection of laser equipment.
IV. Mistake 4: Equating Higher Power with Greater Cutting Thickness
Higher power indicates the potential to cut thicker materials. However, the actual cutting thickness is also influenced by material properties, cutting efficiency, and cooling technology. Excessively thick materials exceed the capabilities of laser cutting machines and should be processed using specialized machining equipment. The selection of laser equipment should consider material thickness.
V. Mistake 5: Believing Faster Speed is Always Better
In theory, laser cutters from the same brand with the same power should have similar maximum straight-line cutting speeds. If a machine’s specifications claim speeds far exceeding the market average, it’s likely a fabrication. Don’t be misled by inflated specifications during selection of laser equipment.
VI. Mistake 6: Assuming Imported Equipment is Always Superior
The domestic laser cutting machine industry has matured over decades, with product quality thoroughly validated in the market. Domestic suppliers also offer mature supply chains for corresponding components. Domestically produced equipment offers advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness, performance, and service. Consider your specific needs and budget without blindly pursuing imported brands when making your selection of laser equipment.
Correct Selection of Laser Equipment:
Numerous factors influence the selection of laser equipment. In addition to considering the maximum size and material of currently processed workpieces, the maximum cutting thickness, and the size of raw material sheets, you should also consider future development directions. For example, consider the maximum workpiece size required after technical modifications to your products, the most cost-effective material sheet sizes available in the steel market, and the duration of loading and unloading processes. All these considerations are important for the right selection of laser equipment.