Repeatable surface texturing

A range of 3-, 4- and 5-axis laser ablation machine tools are the first machines of their kind to be sold by GF AgieCharmilles, and complement the company's existing machine tool range.

The LASER machines provide manufacturers with creativity and freedom to replicate different textures and finishes on parts.

The required textures can be obtained from a variety of sources (ie images/photographs/scans) and are then converted into bitmap/greyscale modes using graphic software programs like Adobe Photoshop. These files are then transferred to the LASER machines' control systems where mapping software is used to create the desired surface effect (2D or 3D topography) via step and repeat, or synchronous laser pulse movement.

There are six different machines in the laser range: the LASER 500 (3-axis standard entry machine); the LASER 600 3Ax and LASER 1000 3Ax (3-axis machines); and the LASER 600/1000/1200 5Ax models (5-axis machines).

Different laser power - 20 W (standard) to 50 W and 100 W (optional) are also available, and increase the application potential of the LASER machines, while the productivity and flexibility of the machines can be increased via automation (programmable pallet changers).

Maximum workpiece dimensions that can be handled are 700 by 700 by 700 mm (on the LASER 1200 5-axis machine), and maximum workpiece weight is 1,700 kg (again on the LASER 1200).

Author
Andrew Allcock

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Related Companies
Agie Charmilles Ltd

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