Cross-flow design Mitsubishi Electric’s eX laser profiler brings cost benefits to sheetmetal processors

The eX Series machine, optionally available in 3.5 kW and 6.0 kW) versions, boasts Mitsubishi's patented cross-flow laser design which integrates an eco mode that cuts running costs by up to 90% during standby, and also eco-friendly features for power and gas consumption. The eco credentials are evidenced by carbon dioxide emissions, which are said to be 30% lower than comparable high speed axial flow lasers. The eX Series also has Mitsubishi's latest Jet Pierce technology which reduces the processing time for thick mild steel plate (up to 27 mm) and medium thick plates. The same technology combined with improved processing speeds – up to 50 m/min feedrates – also reduces the processing time for thin sheets. The eX Series can also cut stainless steel up to 22 mm and aluminium alloy up to 17 mm, both achieved using nitrogen as an assist gas The eX series' compact design provides a small footprint without reducing table size. It is built on a heavy duty, high rigidity, single platform and incorporates advances such as a magnetic head, which protects from catastrophic crashes and allows for easy recovery; high speed lens movement; improved Diamond Path Technology for constant beam control and cutting performance; and helical rack and pinion actuation, which reduces noise, allows for an increase in acceleration in X and Y axes, and provides increased accuracy and longer operating life. The eX Series has Mitsubishi's latest CNC controller which is easy to program and use – even for beginners, claims the company. It offers a faster graphical interface; simple nesting with thumbnail illustrations displayed on the screen, and expanded programming options. The CNC also works in combination with a barcode reader to transfer programs to the controller, saving substantial amounts of processing time. The eX Series machine uses Mitsubishi's patented 3-axis, cross-flow resonator design, which the company says delivers both the highest cutting power per watt available, in addition to significantly reducing gas consumption. (This is put at less than three bottles gas/year based on running 250 days/year.) A single resonator charge of fresh gas enables continuous rate power operation for 24 hours without replenishment. The just-on-time discharge system of the eX Series laser substantially reduces power consumption as a result of automatically switching to 'eco-mode' during standby. In addition, the cross-flow resonator design eliminates the need for expensive quartz tubes and turbine blower systems, optimises cutting power, and requires less maintenance, claims World Machinery.