Below is a list of useful Frequently Asked Questions from the world of fibre laser cutting.
1) What is a Nukon fibre laser cutting machine?
A Nukon fibre laser cutting machine uses a high-powered fibre laser source to cut metal sheet with speed, precision and minimal waste. Fibre technology delivers excellent beam quality, energy efficiency and consistent performance across mild steel, stainless steel and aluminium.
2) What is a Nukon tube laser cutting machine?
A Nukon tube laser is designed to cut round tube, square tube and structural sections using rotary axes and a precision laser head. It allows holes, slots, mitres and complex profiles to be cut in a single automated process.
3) What materials can Nukon fibre lasers cut?
Nukon fibre lasers can cut:
Material capability depends on laser power and thickness.
4) How thick can a Nukon fibre laser cut?
Cutting thickness depends on laser power. Higher power machines (e.g. 6kW, 8kW, 20kW+) can cut significantly thicker materials at faster speeds. Nukon can advise based on your material type and production requirements.
5) How thick can a Nukon tube laser cut?
Tube cutting capacity depends on:
Nukon can assess your part drawings to confirm suitable tube laser models.
6) What is the ROI on a tube laser?
ROI on a tube laser is typically driven by:
Many manufacturers see strong returns due to automation and reduced handling.
7) What should I consider when buying a fibre laser?
Key factors include:
Unison helps assess your application to ensure correct specification.
8) Do I need nitrogen or oxygen for laser cutting?
Yes. Assist gases are essential:
Gas choice affects cost, speed and finish quality.
9) Can compressed air be used instead of nitrogen?
In some applications, compressed air can be used as a lower-cost alternative, particularly for thinner materials. However, edge quality may differ compared to nitrogen.
10) Do I need extraction and fume filtration?
Yes. Fibre laser cutting generates fumes and particulates. Proper extraction and filtration systems are required to:
Unison can advise on suitable extraction systems.
11) What PPE is required for operating a fibre laser?
Modern enclosed Nukon fibre lasers are designed for high safety standards. However, operators should use:
Enclosed systems significantly reduce exposure risk.
12) How safe are Nukon fibre lasers?
Nukon machines are fully enclosed and built to international laser safety standards. Safety interlocks, guarded enclosures and emergency stop systems ensure controlled operation. When installed correctly and used as intended, they provide a very safe cutting environment.
13) What industries use Nukon fibre lasers?
Common industries include:
14) What are the advantages of fibre laser vs CO₂ laser?
Fibre lasers offer:
15) How accurate are Nukon fibre lasers?
Nukon fibre lasers deliver high positional accuracy and repeatability thanks to precision motion systems and stable laser sources. Ideal for tight-tolerance components.
16) How accurate are Nukon tube lasers?
Tube lasers provide high angular and positional accuracy through precision rotary axes and motion control systems.
17) Can Nukon lasers cut reflective metals like aluminium and copper?
Yes. Modern fibre laser technology handles reflective materials effectively with correct parameter setup.
18) Do fibre lasers require regular maintenance?
Yes. Routine maintenance includes:
Regular servicing ensures uptime and cut quality.
Our Nukon team are available to support.
19) Do fibre lasers require water cooling?
Yes. High-power fibre laser systems use industrial chillers to maintain stable operating temperatures.
20) What consumables are used in fibre laser cutting?
Typical consumables include:
21) Can Nukon lasers be automated?
Yes. Automation options include:
Automation improves throughput and reduces labour costs.
22) What software is used to program Nukon lasers?
Nukon systems integrate with CAD/CAM software for:
23) What is nesting in laser cutting?
Nesting arranges parts efficiently on a sheet to minimise scrap and maximise material utilisation.
24) Are laser-cut edges ready for assembly?
Yes. Fibre lasers typically produce clean edges with minimal dross, reducing secondary finishing operations.
25) How energy efficient are Nukon fibre lasers?
Fibre lasers are significantly more energy-efficient than older CO₂ systems, helping reduce running costs.
26) Can Nukon tube lasers replace saw cutting and drilling?
Yes. Tube lasers can combine cutting, profiling and hole making in one process, eliminating multiple secondary operations.
27) Do fibre lasers require special foundations?
Most machines can be installed on a standard industrial concrete floor, subject to site assessment.
28) How fast are fibre lasers compared to plasma or waterjet?
Fibre lasers are typically faster than waterjet and offer higher precision than plasma for thin to medium gauge metals.
29) Can I see sample parts before purchasing?
Yes. Nukon can arrange sample cutting trials to verify quality, accuracy and cycle time.
30) Why buy a Nukon fibre laser?
Nukon Lasers UK provides:
This ensures long-term performance and reliability.