By taking HGTECH’s 3D five-axis laser cutting equipment as an example, we have shared some tips for the cutting process, like choosing fixtures and proper programming. In this chapter, we will continue to discuss the optimization of cutting action, the setting of cutting parameters, and the selection of large size workpiece cutting format and other issues.

Optimization of Cutting Actions

Optimize the cutting height and use a "leapfrog" motion for non-cutting moves to make full use of the effective travel of the floating axis. This approach allows the cutting head to get as close as possible to the workpiece surface while ensuring the safety of the cutting head's passage, thereby saving non-cutting travel time.

Cutting Parameters

Factors influencing cutting quality include parameters (power, speed, air pressure, focus), gas quality (typically using air or nitrogen for cutting, requiring regular maintenance of the air compressor and filtration system to ensure stable gas quality), nozzle condition, stable height tracking, and clean optical lenses.

In addition to the mentioned factors, the cutting angle also has a significant impact on three-dimensional laser cutting. In flat sheet processing, the laser cutting head remains vertical to the workpiece surface. However, in three-dimensional cutting, where the workpiece is of irregular shape, when cutting irregular surfaces, corners, or sides, maintaining a perpendicular orientation of the cutting head to the workpiece surface may lead to collisions between the cutting head and the workpiece (Figure 8). This necessitates real-time adjustments of the cutting head and cutting surface angles to ensure cutting head safety (Figure 9).

Cutting Large-Sized Workpieces

The introduction of integral door rings (Figure 10) has significantly improved automotive safety. These large-sized components require 3D five-axis laser cutting machines with larger working areas. Standard 3D five-axis laser cutting machines typically have a working area of 3x1.5 meters, which is sufficient for most automotive stamped parts. However, for integral door rings and similar large components, achieving seamless processing without the need for secondary positioning can be realized through larger working areas, such as 4x2 meters or 4x2.5 meters, on 3D five-axis laser cutting machines. This approach offers enhanced reliability and stability in production.

In recent years, hot stamping forming technology and hot stamping production lines have experienced rapid development, driven by high market demand. HGTECH's 3D five-axis laser cutting equipment has matched the cutting efficiency of mega brand’s equipment but is priced at only around 70% of their cost. Additionally, it offers advantages such as shorter delivery times and lower service costs. Compared to mega brand’s equipment, a single machine from HGTECH can save over a million dollars, and a hot forming line typically requires 4-6 of these automotive hot stamping 3Dl five-axis laser cutting machines. This results in significant cost savings for users, potentially saving tens of millions of dollars in equipment investment costs for a single production line. As a result, many hot forming companies have adopted these machines in large quantities.

Unlocking the Full Potential of 3D Five-Axis Laser Equipment I