Die M. den Oudsten Buigwerken wollte die größte Laserschneidmaschine der Welt. Nur ein Unternehmen traute sich den Bau zu. - © www.vosfoto.nl Athanassios Kaliudis Probably the longest laser machine in the world T he M. den Oudsten Buigwerken, a Dutch company, wanted the world’s largest laser cutting machine. There is only one company that dared build it. Pieter den Oudsten stands in his new factory, admiring his Spanish eye-catcher. At four-and-a-half meters wide and 66 meters long, it is the largest laser cutting machine in the world. Headquartered in Rhenen, Netherlands, M. den Oudsten Buigwerken is a specialist for leser cutting and XXL bending. The company’s laser machine cuts giant sheets and plates for truck bodies, ship hulls and buildings. The workpieces are as large as 3 by 12 meters−and as thick as 30 millimeters. These sheets and plates lie at the ready on the 66-meter cutting table, which is recessed in the floor. A laser booth 20 meters in length travels to each of five working positions one after the other. While the machine is cutting a sheet, the operator can load and unload other sheets. You read that right: it takes just one person to operate this gigantic machine. Because the table is at ground level, inserting sheets is easy. “Instead of having to climb onto a table, the operator can simply load and unload the sheets using a ceiling crane,” says den Oudsten. Once a sheet is in position, barriers at the sides tip up; then a booth moves over the sheet, covering it completely. Roller gates on both sides of the booth descend−and cutting can begin. 66 Meters – a table this long is perfect for even the largest sheets, and it also creates space for loading and unloading while the machine is cutting (Photos: Norbert Voskens). Two cutting heads equipped with 0.5 and 1 mm fibers can cut individually or in parallel (Photos: Norbert Voskens). Pieter den Oudsten specializes in extra-large sheets (Photos: Norbert Voskens). Because the table of the laser machine is at ground level inserting sheets is easy (Photos: Norbert Voskens). The Spanish eye-catcher cuts giant sheets and plates for truck bodies, ship hulls and buildings (Photos: Norbert Voskens). Two cutting heads dance across the sheet, cutting the specified shapes. Both of these optical systems are mounted on a single portal that moves over the sheet in the direction of cutting. As soon as a sheet has been cut, the roller gates ascend and the booth moves on to the next sheet. “This approach allows us to cut five or even ten sheets in one go, depending on sheet size.” Four fibers for two This gigantic cutting machine was nearly not built at all. “It wasn’t at all easy to find a manufacturer that would even consider building such a humongous machine. Only Tecoi stepped forward,” says den Oudsten. Tecoi, a company based in León in northern Spain, likewise specializes in medium and oversized solutions. The oversized machines the company manufactures are at least 6 meters long, which is unique in this market. Mr. Jorge Luís Rodríguez, CEO at Tecoi, still clearly recalls the order from the Netherlands. The booth and the portal turned out to be challenging in making a cutting machine for Buigwerken. “It was essential that we strike a good compromise between height and weight on the one hand and, on the other hand, the booth’s dynamics — or acceleration and deceleration behavior. Weight was crucial, especially when it came to the portal, because the dynamic movement must adjust precisely to the speed of cutting.” Tecoi certainly knows how to take laser cutting to the next level: by placing two different fibers in a single cutting head. “This allows us to combine two beams that cut in different ways. The first fiber is ideal for thin materials—between just 0.8 and 1 millimeter. The other fibercuts materials as thick as 30 millimeters. Regardless of the task athand, you don’t need to change the cutting head.” The Spanish company calls its innovation the double-fiber process (DFP) system. What’s more, Tecoi uses two of these cutting heads per portal. They work in parallel for even faster cutting. The laser-beam source is a TruDisk 6002 made by TRUMPF. Den Oudsten at Buigwerken in the Netherlands is a happy man. “This disk-laser system handles complicated sheet-cutting jobs twice as fast as a CO2 laser. That makes us faster and more flexible than the competition. We can deliver in less than five days, which is lightning-quick in our industry!” Buigwerken wanted an XXL cutting machine that can produce as many as 4 large sheets per hour. After all, the more cutting tasks there are per sheet, the better the two-headed monster can leverage its superior speed. Laser Solid-state lasers Disk lasers Laser cutting 2D cutting Videos Athanassios Kaliudis Press spokesperson TRUMPF laser technology TRUMPF Media Relations, Corporate Communications Send feedback to the author Download item as PDF You might also be interested in Laser cuts glass – at the cutting edge Clean Baking - With Laser! Musical Material made of Sheet Metal

Laser tube cutting puts you on the path to long-term success – and with TRUMPF tube cutting machines you have the perfect tool. - The advantages of our laser tube cutting machines The economic pressure in conventional tube processing is increasing. The laser can save you entire process steps – and money too. At the same time, you can expand your range of parts and therefore your customer base. As a market leader in laser technology and the machine tool industry, we are the innovative trendsetters in the market, offering you perfect solutions when it comes to laser tube cutting. 1. Loading Your metal tubes and metal profiles begin their journey through the TruLaser Tube machines with the loading process. Short setup times, very good accessibility and a practical machine concept with many functions make part handling quick and easy. 2. Cutting Top quality while saving time and protecting the material: numerous options make it possible for you to cut your metal tubes and profiles with the TruLaser Tube 3. Unloading The TruLaser Tube is extremely efficient even when unloading, demonstrating the same benefits it displays during loading – clever solutions, good accessibility, ergonomics. 4. Software TRUMPF provides software, not just for programming, but also for production management and for a well-run, smooth process. 1. Loading Automated The LoadMaster Tube minimises your setup times. Its bundle space accommodates up to 4 t of raw material. It ensures that the correct tubes were loaded before supplying the material. Flexible The open, ergonomically optimised machine concept makes it easy for you to even load individual tubes. Smart Thanks to Smart Profile Detection, you can load profiles with complicated geometries automatically, not just manually. This opens up new areas of application. SeamLine Tube identifies weld seams or markings, ensuring every tube is aligned correctly on your machine. The function can also optionally scan the inside of the tube. Perfectly clamped The collet chucks position and hold your tubes in place without damaging the materials. The self-centring clamping system with continuous sensor monitoring adapts to every tube geometry. This gives you precise results and consistently high quality. 2. Cutting Robust laser The heart of every TruLaser Tube is a high-power laser from TRUMPF's own production. Choose the laser that is just right for you from different laser types and laser performance categories. Intelligent cutting head You save non-productive time thanks to the single cutting head strategy. In addition, the slim nozzle also processes inner edges effortlessly. A magnetic coupling protects the cutting unit in the event of collisions. Concentrated expertise From the very start, your cutting processes are quick and of the best quality: you will receive a complete package of top quality cutting data, paired with simple operation and process-reliable TRUMPF technology. Constant focus position Optimum cutting results guaranteed: FocusLine keeps the focus position of your laser consistent and automatically adapts it to material type and thickness. Controlled piercing Would you like to have small, precise piercing holes while saving time and protecting machine and materials? Then PierceLine is the perfect function for you. Bevel cut of up to 45° Extend your range of parts with high-grade bevel cutting up to 45°: the bevel cutting option with patented TRUMPF technology makes this possible. 3. Unloading Ergonomic while gentle on the material Conveyor tables at an ergonomic height make it easier to unload tubes and profiles. They also serve as a helpful material buffer. The machine ejects finished parts onto the conveyor tables – that protects the material. Intelligent Your machine is ahead of the game: sensors detect whether or not a part has been correctly ejected – a bonus for your process reliability. 4. Software Programming Tube Create your NC programs within seconds! The well-arranged programming software is easy to use, many design aids are often already included in the program. A world of tubes A different way of designing: You produce complete assemblies with meaningful tube designs. With the pressure in conventional tube processing mounting, you are saving time and money – and tapping into new customer groups. We see tubes every day, more than we realise... ...which is exactly what makes laser tube cutting so profitable: the many application options and efficient processing with TRUMPF machines. Make the most of contouring freedom: you can cut any geometry with the laser beam. It is easy to operate the TruTops machines, meaning you are ready for small lot sizes in no time at all. Save tools: you only need one tool – your TRUMPF laser. It processes different material types, wall thicknesses and profile geometries. No tool changes are needed. Cap part costs: laser tube cutting eliminates entire process steps like sawing, drilling or milling. With the right TRUMPF functions, you can also form threads directly in the TruLaser Tube – lowering the expenditure for handling and storage as well. Your part costs are significantly lowered compared to conventional tube processing. An altogether excellent setup – including excellent advice and consultation Consultation for part design How can you process your assemblies and subassemblies in the most efficient manner? How do you conquer unfamiliar part territory? We answer these questions within a consultation about part design – in a workshop at TRUMPF or at your facility. Lower your part costs and inspire your customers with new ideas! Find out more Find out more Welded together from two single parts in conventional production. Designed for laser processing with bend connections and additional positioning aids. Contact TRUMPF Ltd. Telephone +44 1582 725335 Email

The machine of the future will cut autonomously – we are confident of that. Discover our vision for the autonomous TruLaser Center 7030 machine. - Autonomous laser cutting The machine of the future cuts autonomously – we're sure of that. We also know who will benefit the most from it: you. This is because our future technology is aware. It looks ahead. Works almost on its own. With the person in control at all times. This is only possibly through the interplay between intelligent assistance systems, adaptive machine functions and last but not least, ground-breaking ideas. Discover TRUMPF's vision for autonomous machines now, as well as our innovations which are already available now, and their potential for your sheet metal processing. Join us in the autonomous future. Much more than a vision: autonomous machines at TRUMPF We have laid the cornerstone for autonomous machines through numerous assistance systems. Progress is far from complete, and we are certain that the future belongs to autonomously working machines. They monitor and regulate the machining process, enabling a smooth production process. The operator is unburdened, and their role changes to that of a process manager. This collaboration between human and machine achieves optimal results. 5 stages to autonomous machines 1 UNASSISTED Manual monitoring Operator involvement at the machine Operator involvement is at a maximum. All tasks are completed by the operator. 2 ASSISTED Manual monitoring Operator involvement at the machine The machine supports the operator with selected tasks. The operator is primarily located around the machine. 3 SEMI-Autonomous Manual monitoring Operator involvement at the machine The matchine regulates the cut mostly on its own. Generally the operator has only to be by the machine at predictable points in time. 4 HIGHLY Autonomous Manual monitoring Operator involvement at the machine The machine prevents interruptions by self-optimization. The operator is informed about necessary interventions in advance. 5 fully autonomous Manual monitoring Operator involvement at the machine The machine reacts independantly to all interruptions in the production process. Operator involvement is kept to a minimum, the focus is on machine maintenance. Manual monitoring Operator involvement at the machine Our vision is clearly defined. We have our sights set on developing machines which operate autonomously. With the Active Speed Control system for adaptive feed control on the TruLaser Series 5000 or the TruLaser Center 7030 full-service laser machine, we have crossed the threshold to the third stage on the scale. The fifth stage is a fully autonomous machine. When it comes to classification, the following parameters are especially taken into account for location determination: proportion of manual monitoring and operator involvement at the machine. The focus lies on a machine's ability to recognise, prevent and resolve malfunctions independently – without human intervention. Our vision is for the operator to have a central role involving having control and managing the process. Products and functions The Active Speed Control system for adaptive feed control is an important milestone on the path to autonomous laser cutting. Numerous assistance systems are also available, which offer intelligent solutions for different process steps. Discover which parts of the vision are already a reality. Advantages for your laser processing The future of laser cutting is becoming simpler and less stressful. Read here to discover the advantages that integrating autonomous and partially autonomous technologies can offer for your 2D laser processing operation. Curious about the future of laser processing? What does autonomous laser cutting mean for your parts production? What benefits are there to you? Our 2D laser cutting experts would be happy to answer these as well as other questions. Large strides forward: intelligent sensor systems increase productivity Part of our vision for fully autonomous laser cutting is already a reality. Intelligent assistance systems for laser cutting develop execution strategies, for example, which prevent collisions with tilting parts, or make post-production of parts from remainder sheet easier. Even nozzles are automatically inspected and replaced if necessary. The proportion of machine functions which control processes independently is ever-increasing. An important milestone on the path to autonomous machines is the Active Speed Control system for adaptive feed control. The system monitors the kerf through the nozzle, oversees the cutting process and independently regulates feed speed. It ensures the right feed level for flame and fusion cutting, even in the event of thickness variations in a sheet, or if the sheet has been affected by quality fluctuations (i.e. rust or coating remnants). Data analysis makes quick and stable cutting possible. This can prevent disruptions to cutting and noticeably reduces the number of reject parts. The operator is also relieved. They can pull up the most important process parameters or a live-image through the nozzle any time, and will be actively informed if the need for intervention arises. Tapeshots which were necessary up to this point are now a thing of the past. Active Speed Control oversees the process, controls cutting How the Active Speed Control system for feed control works The cutting process is monitored in real time from above with a view through the cutting nozzle. The sensor system monitors the kerf, determines the optimum feed and adjusts it as required – many hundreds of times per second. This minimises cutting interruptions due to material differences such as variations in sheet thickness, rust or paint impurities. In the event of an impending cutting flaw, Active Speed Control ensures that the machine stops. In conjunction with Smart Rerun, the machine can automatically perform re-entry or switch to the next part. Active Speed Control also reduces the formation of burrs and slag. The minimised reject rate leads to lower part costs. How Active Speed Control performs when it comes to sheet metal Experience first-hand how Active Speed Control showcases its intelligence with sheets of 4 mm and above, through a direct comparison of sheet against sheet. Manual reduction of the feed is not required to compensate for differences in the material. Previously, when the user reduced the feed, this caused heat to accumulate in the material. This heat build-up causes uncontrollable melting of the material. Automatic feed control, on the other hand, prevents this increased heat development and so improves part quality at the same time. Feed rate significantly above default values Up until now, cutting data has informed a machine how a material of a certain sheet thickness should be processed. This process includes a buffer in the event that the quality of the sheet fluctuates, or if inexperienced operators had not optimally set it for the next order. This means the machine cuts at a lower feed rate than it can actually handle. Active Speed Control makes this buffer redundant. The sensor system allows the machine to work as quickly as possible, and with as much process reliability as necessary, respectively. Active Speed Control often achieves speeds which are noticeably higher than the default values contained in the cutting data. Comparison between laser cutting with and without feed control Cut contour without adaptive feed control Material bulging can be easily detected when flame cutting mild steel without Active Speed Control, because the cut was not clean in certain areas. Ultimately, the feed needed to be stopped entirely, as a cutting flaw had occurred. This results in faulty parts and rejects. Cut contour with adaptive feed control Active Speed Control creates a clean cut, largely without a large amount of spatter or spatter residue. Rust and surface contaminations lead to automatic control and adjustment of the cutting head feed. This allowed cutting flaws to be prevented effectively. Take a look behind the scenes TRUMPF is a pioneer in the laser cutting industry. To ensure we remain so in the future, we research tirelessly, always on the boundary of technological possibilities. We have a clear vision on the path to autonomous machines: to make the work of operators easier, through simple and sophisticated operating concepts. Our solutions give them the ability to respond to potential malfunctions with ease. The focus is on cost-effectiveness, as compared to non-assisted processing, the part costs for autonomous processes are significantly lower. Performance analysis: TRUMPF developers optimise the processing for all sheet thicknesses It just gets better – TRUMPF developers are evaluating cutting data in order to further optimise Active Speed Control Agile project planning: 2D laser development employees in a sprint review Electrifying: future technology arises in the electronics lab as well, where new components are put through their paces Nothing escapes a trained eye: visual inspection of part quality during the development process Nothing ventured, nothing gained: testing new functions and control parameters under real-world conditions are also part of the development of new machines Full overview: checking the protective glass after test running a machine in development There is no "I" in team: technical breakthroughs such as Active Speed Control and the development of the TruLaser Center 7030 can only be achieved as a team Ready for the future – be prepared for anything with intelligent functions from TRUMPF Assistance systems make life easier; they shorten and simplify many processes in laser cutting, as well as make them noticeably more reliable. This allows you to put your machines to optimal use, and minimise manual interventions. In addition to the newly developed Active Speed Control, TRUMPF also offers solutions for every process step in the form of intelligent functions. A compact selection of functions for autonomous laser cutting can be found here. All Setup Cutting Maintenance and fault elimination AdjustLine AdjustLine allows you to cut even materials of inferior quality quickly and with ease; the function automatically adjusts the parameters to the situation. This allows you to reduce the number of rejects and material costs. Automatic nozzle changer The nozzle changer automatically changes the cutting nozzle if required for processing a new order or due to wear. This allows you to benefit from reduced non-productive times and fewer manual interventions. BrightLine and BrightLine fiber The zenith of edge quality: for stainless and mild steel, your CO2 laser cuts with BrightLine. However, with BrightLine fiber, even the solid-state laser can deliver cutting results of the highest quality. Collision protection When cutting thin sheets, there is often the threat of collisions due to tipping parts. The sophisticated collision protection is a type of airbag for your cutting head, which guarantees utmost process reliability and prevents structural damage. Condition Guide The light on the Condition Guide shows you the status of important elements which influence the cutting capability; if required, the program provides you with recommendations for action and generates prognoses of when maintenance is needed. CoolLine Not even tight contours pose a problem with CoolLine. The function keeps your workpiece cool during the entire cutting process. This means that you can cut even intricate parts and achieve even tighter nests. DetectLine A camera system precisely determines the position of inserted sheets and enables reworking of cut parts with absolute precision. Additionally, the DetectLine automatically measures a cut focusing comb, and sets the focus position. Drop&Cut Thanks to the camera support in Drop&Cut, you can reproduce parts from existing programs in a matter of seconds. Additionally, you utilise unused remainder sheets. Highspeed Eco With Highspeed Eco turbo-charged cutting, you can double your sheet throughput and your feed rate, while your cutting gas consumption reduces by up to 70%. This makes nitrogen cutting with solid-state lasers extremely efficient. One-cutting-head strategy Replacing cutting heads is always time consuming; simply eliminate it entirely. With the one-cutting-head strategy, you process all sheet thicknesses with the same cutting head. Online condition checking of the protective glass Spatter can contaminate the focusing lenses of CO2-machines. LensLine monitors the lens and switches the beam off in the case of emergencies. The advantage of this is that the machine is only idle for a short amount of time for lens cleaning. Smart collision prevention Avoid expensive collisions with smart collision prevention: your machine processes parts and inner contours in a sequence that cleverly takes into account the tipping of parts that have been cut free. Smart nozzle automation If your nozzles are no longer in perfect condition, this can lead to burr formation. The consequence of this is reworking or rejects. Smart nozzle automation substitutes in the right nozzle and checks nozzle condition and beam centring. Leading the way – TruLaser Center 7030 Our full-service laser machine takes care of everything – from the drawing to the sorted part. Because if you want cost-effective laser cutting, you have to consider the entire process. We created the TruLaser Center 7030 with this aim in mind – we carefully examined all the components, re-imagined them, and integrated them into a single machine. The machine guarantees process reliability thanks to its integrated intelligence, for example with the SmartGate, SmartLift and SortMaster Speed. The novel machine concept with its additional axis and higher-level axis movements facilitates revolutionary productivity. Advantages for your laser processing The future of laser cutting is becoming simpler and less stressful. Read here to discover the advantages that integrating autonomous and partially autonomous technologies can offer for your 2D laser processing operation. TRUMPF's vision of autonomous machines We believe that the future is characterised by autonomous machines which lighten the load on operators. Learn more about our vision for autonomous machines and the far-reaching opportunities offered by machines, which are increasingly operating independently. Curious about the future of laser processing? What does autonomous laser cutting mean for your parts production? What benefits are there to you? Our 2D laser cutting experts would be happy to answer these as well as other questions. What do autonomous machines mean for your production? The age of intelligent production is already underway. TRUMPF machines are increasingly independent in their operation; they analyse and regulate processes. With your help, malfunctions can be prevented, and productivity can be increased. Employees can already be supported and relieved during many operations even today. Laser cutting will also become easier and less stressful in the future. Interested in learning the advantages that integrating autonomous and partially autonomous technologies can bring to your 2D laser processing? Click on the green dots in the image to find out more. 1. Fewer reject parts Nip rejects in the bud: the sensor system can detect low quality materials or contaminations, thereby preventing cutting flaws before they occur. 2. Intuitive machines Many malfunctions are detected or prevented through intelligent assistance systems. The Touchpoint HMI user interface allows machines to be operated more intuitively. Additional autonomous laser cutting functions can also be simply installed via software updates in the future 3. Transparent processes This is how free of stress work can be: information or error messages are sent quickly and simply on the go, to a tablet or smartphone. The operator is informed whether manual intervention is required. 4. Relieved operators While the cutting process is running smoothly, the operator has time for other tasks, for example material logistics or work preparations. This enables maximum productivity and machine utilisation. 5. Error-free night shifts Partially autonomous functions and automation components allow for stable production with minimal monitoring – even during night shifts with fewer personnel. 6. Maintenance and setup can be planned In the future, it will be possible for autonomous laser cutting machines to recommend and control maintenance, as well as diagnose setup requirements on their own. Our services already allow for easy ordering and quick availability of consumables. 7. Speeds far beyond default values Active Speed Control renders the need to take buffers into account redundant. The sensor system allows the machine to work as quickly as possible, and with as much process reliability as necessary, respectively. Often speeds are achieved which are significantly higher than the default values contained in the cutting data. 8. Automatic post-production In the future, highly autonomous and fully autonomous laser cutting machines will automatically determine restart strategies after remedying a malfunction. This enables automatic post-production. 9. Less reworking Active Speed Control determines the optimal feed rate and adjusts this if required, even if sheet thickness varies. In many cases this reduces the amount of burr and dross build-up. Something to consider Will there be fully autonomous machines in the next few years? Even now we can look back on numerous milestones on the path to autonomous machines. This includes machine functions and assistance systems such as Smart Collision Prevention for collision avoidance, Smart Nozzle Automation, the automatic nozzle changer, as well as Smart Beam Control for intelligent laser beam monitoring. Development is nowhere near finished however, as demonstrated by ground-breaking developments such as the TruLaser Center 7030 full-service laser machine, or the Active Speed Control system for adaptive feed control. It will take a few years to reach full autonomy. Networked production environments and artificial intelligence (AI) will play an important part here. Who actually needs autonomous machines? Every company with a goal of keeping a sharp competitive edge in the age of digitalisation achieves positive results through the automation of processes and the implementation of autonomously operating machines. Intelligent automation solutions for example, create the basis for cost-effective production and offer many advantages in terms of efficiency and transparency. But what good is the fastest machine if, for example, parts tilt? Intelligent assistance systems are the solution for many future challenges. Idle times can quickly take up half the working time of 2D laser cutting machines; this is how long it takes to equip, sort or rectify malfunctions. Autonomously producing laser machines are able to prevent and rectify malfunctions on their own. What effects does autonomy have on my part costs? An increase in autonomy leads to a decrease in part costs. This is because fewer cases of malfunctions occur during production in general, and if they do occur, they are immediately detected and remedied by the machine – with operator support if required. This has a positive effect on output. Additionally, a significant decrease in rejects is produced. Active Speed Control proactively prevents cutting interruptions caused by fluctuating material quality, for example. This, for example, will prevent the undetected production of reject parts. Can we expect only perfect parts without rejects in the future? Production without malfunctions and rejects is desirable, but not quite realistic; the goal is to decrease the number of items that go to the scrap container. There will, however, always be materials and qualities which are only suitable for precise laser cutting under certain conditions. Whether produced parts require reworking is always dependent on the application. Burr and dross formation cannot be entirely eliminated. We are, however, working towards the goal of using the file as rarely as possible. How is Active Speed Control related to autonomous laser cutting? Active Speed Control is the latest TRUMPF development on the path to autonomous machines, and provides the entry to partially autonomous laser cutting. It makes parts production more robust, transparent, independent and, most of all, more productive. This is enabled through constant monitoring of the cutting process. With a live-view through the nozzle, the sensor system monitors the light that is emitted during material welding. Based on this so-called process light, it determines whether the welding is going according to plan, identifies the fastest possible feed and adjusts this if required – hundreds of times per second. This creates fewer rejects, more process reliability and less operator involvement with the machine. Will machines replace operators? Absolutely not. Operator involvement with the machine is decreasing, but for good reason – they will no longer need to shoulder the burden of having to manually monitor the cutting process. This means that they are relieved. The necessity of manual intervention in critical situations is drastically reduced. Instead, the operator receives information (for example with the Active Speed Control system for adaptive feed control) on their mobile device, and can react accordingly. What's particularly advantageous is that the operator is now able to focus on other tasks, such as programming, or preparing for setup or maintenance. They always have absolute control, supported by the laser machine and its assistance systems. TRUMPF's vision of autonomous machines We believe that the future is characterised by autonomous machines which lighten the load on operators. Learn more about our vision for autonomous machines and the far-reaching opportunities offered by machines, which are increasingly operating independently. Products and functions The Active Speed Control system for adaptive feed control is an important milestone on the path to autonomous laser cutting. Numerous assistance systems are also available, which offer intelligent solutions for different process steps. Discover which parts of the vision are already a reality. Download brochure Curious about the future of laser processing? What does autonomous laser cutting mean for your parts production? What benefits are there to you? Our 2D laser cutting experts would be happy to answer these as well as other questions.

TRUMPF lasers create art – In Budapest, family-run Intertechnika welds, laser cuts and bends bespoke pieces for Hungarian artists. - Ramona Hönl Sheet metal art from Budapest: precision laser cutting I n southern Budapest, the small family-owned company Intertechnika welds, lasers and bends bespoke products for artists across Hungary. Teams of designers, machinists and artists craft unique pieces that draw international attention at exhibitions – while also gaining valuable experience for series production. Lasers create art – In front of a silhouette of a forest crafted from laser-cut sheet metal, vibrant shapes move to the rhythm of meditative sounds, lit by thousands of LEDs. The wall projections pulse in harmony with the music to create an atmospheric blend of singing bowls, double bass and the resonant tone of a gong. Techno meets Zen. Hungarian artist Márton Nemes spent two years planning and creating his exhibition "Techno Zen." In the summer of 2024, it became the centrepiece of the Hungarian pavilion at the Venice Biennale, the world's largest contemporary art exhibition. A small Hungarian family business, Intertechnika, made it all possible – cutting and bending many of the abstract forms using TRUMPF technology. Peter Alasztics (centre) and his brother Márton are the second generation of the family business. In 1991, their parents, Jullianna Alaszticsn. Kov.cs and Béla Alasztics, founded Intertechnika. They were introduced to TRUMPF in the early 2000s. In 2002, they purchased their first machine, a TruMatic L 4030. From that point, there was no stopping them. Special pieces: Intertechnika learns from custom orders and applies this knowledge to series production. Vision: Peter Alasztics introduces art into the family business and seeks a common language between artists and engineers. From heavy industry stronghold to artistic hub The majority of these murals and sculptures are being created in Budapest's Csepel district, located on a Danube island in the city's south. Once a stronghold of heavy industry, the area was home to manufacturers of motorcycles, cars and commercial vehicles from 1892 to 1993. Today, one of its heritage-listed industrial buildings is home to Intertechnika's headquarters. "We are a small contract manufacturing company," explains Peter Alasztics. "Each year, we process some 28,000 drawings and use them to manufacture everything from transformer parts to housings for Siemens." But that's not all – over the past two decades, the company’s 64 employees have become specialists in bespoke products made using lasers and bending machines. Their TRUMPF machines cut, bend and form sheet metal for artists across Hungary, with the design team constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible. "We really enjoy taking on complicated orders like these," says Peter Alasztics. Peter and his brother Márton are the second generation to run the family business. In 1991, their parents, Jullianna Alaszticsn. Kov.cs and Béla Alasztics, founded Intertechnika. The company’s first year was shaped by the upheaval of the disintegrating Soviet Union. They started out building and servicing CNC machine tools, but just a few years after the company was founded, the role of this technology began to diminish. In 1999, they relocated to the heritage industrial area on the Donauinsel. In 2000, they acquired their first laser, a second-hand 1.5 kW laser cutting machine, and transitioned to sheet metal processing. Intertechnika becomes top technology pioneer in Hungary "Laser technology and sheet metal processing were still relatively new in Hungary at that time. It was an opportunity for us to get involved in a new technology from the very beginning," recounts father Béla Alasztics. To learn the ropes, they observed a machine tool manufacturer friend who was already working with lasers. In the early 2000s, they discovered TRUMPF, and in 2002, they acquired their first machine – a TruMatic L 4030. From that point on, there was no turning back. The company introduced cutting-edge technology, including the automated laser cutting machine. "We were frequently the first company in Hungary to try out TRUMPF's innovative processes, and we always had plenty of support from TRUMPF while we were getting started with them," recalls Béla Alasztics. The historic nature of the production halls presented TRUMPF with challenges from the outset. Although Intertechnika is allowed to expand within the large Donauinsel facility, structural modifications are not permitted. "At the time, there was just a 20-centimetre gap between the roof and the laser cutting machine," explains Peter Alasztics, "but TRUMPF helped us to optimise the layout." The Ditzingen-based company continues to help with Intertechnika's development today. "The first TRUMPF laser opened up a wealth of options for us back then," he says. Precision: When manufacturing pieces of art, the emphasis is not on speed, but on what is technically feasible. Work on the machine: engineers, artists and production staff learn from each other and develop a common language. In 2005, Peter Alasztics introduced art into the company, a move that met with concern from his parents, as his father admits. During his studies at the Visart Academy of Arts in Budapest, Alasztics met the artist István Ézsiás, now over 80 years old, who was interested in sheet metal production waste. As they began their collaboration, Alasztics began to think about how the family-run company's machines could be used to cut and bend works of art. "Finding a common language between artists and engineers was a real challenge," recalls Béla Alasztics. "Artists are free in their thinking, unconcerned with the physical properties or limits of materials," his son Peter explains, "whereas engineers are entirely focused on these constraints." While his brother Márton studied business administration, Peter trained as graphic designer. His master's thesis at the Institute of Art at the Berlin University of the Arts was about collaboration between engineers and artists. Gradually, he and the Intertechnika design team learned about the needs and desires of the artists, and translated them into reality. Learning from artists Márton Nemes has been working with Intertechnika since 2017. At the time, he was looking for someone who could cut a piece of sheet metal with a specially coating in rainbow colours. The material is so unique and costly that only Intertechnika had the courage to take on the challenge. "We had never seen material like it before – or since," says Peter Alasztics. The cut proved successful, and Nemes remains satisfied with the outcome, presenting these works in many of his solo exhibitions. "I had no idea this kind of technology existed. It has completely changed my approach to sculpture," he says. Today, nearly all of his sculptures are created in close collaboration with Intertechnika. "Before I came across Intertechnika, I used completely different materials. Working with sheet metal and lasers has opened up entirely new realms for my imagination," explains Nemes. Strange worlds: Intertechnika laser-cuts unusual silhouettes that artist Márton Nemes then assembles. Inside Outside combines stainless steel, steel and light in a dynamic sculpture. Techno Zen: Superposed and Entangled spans two walls. The Superposed sculpture in the centre of the pavilion. Now an institution in Hungary's art world, Intertechnika collaborates with the local art university, helping students to create their final projects each year. Peter Alasztics encourages his nine-person design team to push the boundaries. When using their machines to create unique pieces, they simultaneously learn techniques applicable to series production. For example, they have manufactured lamp housings for the iconic Széchenyi Chain Bridge over the Danube and tablet cases that are resistant to breaks, scratches and impacts for prison inmates – leveraging expertise gained from their art projects. The two brothers' next move is to increase the degree of automation in their production. With TRUMPF's Oseon software at the ready, they are carrying on their parents' tradition of ongoing investment in cutting-edge technology and software. Oseon is designed to streamline the manufacture of their standard products, making it more efficient and cost-effective. This, in turn, allows for more focus on their art products and unique pieces. "Innovation requires a mindset that is always seeking to create something new," says Peter Alasztics. "When faced with something that is tricky to produce, we turn to works of art and find that it can actually be done!" Created on 15/04/2025 Sheet Metal Laser cutting Laser welding Bending Software Automation Ramona Hönl Spokesperson for machine tools Send feedback to the author Download item as PDF You may also find this interesting Precision work at Real Madrid – Lasercor manufactures the facade of the Bernabéu Stadium Aiming high Down Under: How MaxiTRANS is transforming a forge into a Smart Factory Creative spark: Street art S-Bahn train stops at TRUMPF

From June 20 to 24 TRUMPF will present new solutions for more automation in manufacturing at trade fair for tube processing, Tube, in Düsseldorf, Germany. - Ramona Hönl Tube 2022: More automation for laser tube cutting W hy is automation one of the most important future trends in laser tube cutting? And what solutions does TRUMPF offer in this area? We reveal more in our video from the Tube trade show in Düsseldorf. At the world's most important trade fair for tube processing, Tube, in Düsseldorf, Germany, TRUMPF will present new solutions for more automation in manufacturing from June 20 to 24. Among the highlights at the high-tech company's booth at Tube is the new storage connection , which TRUMPF developed together with STOPA. Dominik Straus, Product Manager Storage Solutions at TRUMPF, will demonstrate how the technology can be used to automatically load TRUMPF's TruLaser Tube 7000 fiber laser tube cutting machine. In addition, Lucas Stix, Product Manager Laser Tube Cutting at TRUMPF, shows how TRUMPF's new Spatter Guard significantly simplifies cleaning the inside of tubes. With the new storage connection from TRUMPF and Stopa, the TruLaser Tube 7000 fiber from TRUMPF can be loaded automatically. TRUMPF Product Manager Dominik Straus describes the process. Lucas Stix, Product Manager Laser Tube Cutting, is presenting the Spatter Guard at Tube - a new technology from TRUMPF that significantly simplifies cleaning the inside of tubes. Marcella Montelatici, Geschäftsführerin Vertrieb und Services bei TRUMPF Werkzeugmaschinen, und Norbert Beier, Leiter Vertrieb Laser-Rohrschneiden, auf dem Messestand von TRUMPF auf der Tube. Laser Automation Laser cutting Ramona Hönl Spokesperson for machine tools Send feedback to the author Download item as PDF You might also be interested in: Tube 2022: TRUMPF unveils new solutions to make laser tube-cutting more automated Seven ways to cut material wastage in sheet metal processing Better safe than sorry: unmasking dangerous lasers

Part of our vision of fully autonomous laser cutting is already a reality. Intelligent sensor systems are driving a significant increase in productivity. - Large strides forward: intelligent sensor systems increase productivity Part of our vision for fully autonomous laser cutting is already a reality. Intelligent assistance systems for laser cutting develop execution strategies, for example, which prevent collisions with tilting parts, or make post-production of parts from remainder sheet easier. Even nozzles are automatically inspected and replaced if necessary. The proportion of machine functions which control processes independently is ever-increasing. An important milestone on the path to autonomous machines is the Active Speed Control system for adaptive feed control. The system monitors the kerf through the nozzle, oversees the cutting process and independently regulates feed speed. It ensures the right feed level for flame and fusion cutting, even in the event of thickness variations in a sheet, or if the sheet has been affected by quality fluctuations (i.e. rust or coating remnants). Data analysis makes quick and stable cutting possible. This can prevent disruptions to cutting and noticeably reduces the number of reject parts. The operator is also relieved. They can pull up the most important process parameters or a live-image through the nozzle any time, and will be actively informed if the need for intervention arises. Tapeshots which were necessary up to this point are now a thing of the past. Active Speed Control oversees the process, controls cutting How the Active Speed Control system for feed control works The cutting process is monitored in real time from above with a view through the cutting nozzle. The sensor system monitors the kerf, determines the optimum feed and adjusts it as required – many hundreds of times per second. This minimises cutting interruptions due to material differences such as variations in sheet thickness, rust or paint impurities. In the event of an impending cutting flaw, Active Speed Control ensures that the machine stops. In conjunction with Smart Rerun, the machine can automatically perform re-entry or switch to the next part. Active Speed Control also reduces the formation of burrs and slag. The minimised reject rate leads to lower part costs. How Active Speed Control performs when it comes to sheet metal Experience first-hand how Active Speed Control showcases its intelligence with sheets of 4 mm and above, through a direct comparison of sheet against sheet. Manual reduction of the feed is not required to compensate for differences in the material. Previously, when the user reduced the feed, this caused heat to accumulate in the material. This heat build-up causes uncontrollable melting of the material. Automatic feed control, on the other hand, prevents this increased heat development and so improves part quality at the same time. Feed rate significantly above default values Up until now, cutting data has informed a machine how a material of a certain sheet thickness should be processed. This process includes a buffer in the event that the quality of the sheet fluctuates, or if inexperienced operators had not optimally set it for the next order. This means the machine cuts at a lower feed rate than it can actually handle. Active Speed Control makes this buffer redundant. The sensor system allows the machine to work as quickly as possible, and with as much process reliability as necessary, respectively. Active Speed Control often achieves speeds which are noticeably higher than the default values contained in the cutting data. Comparison between laser cutting with and without feed control Cut contour without adaptive feed control Material bulging can be easily detected when flame cutting mild steel without Active Speed Control, because the cut was not clean in certain areas. Ultimately, the feed needed to be stopped entirely, as a cutting flaw had occurred. This results in faulty parts and rejects. Cut contour with adaptive feed control Active Speed Control creates a clean cut, largely without a large amount of spatter or spatter residue. Rust and surface contaminations lead to automatic control and adjustment of the cutting head feed. This allowed cutting flaws to be prevented effectively. Take a look behind the scenes TRUMPF is a pioneer in the laser cutting industry. To ensure we remain so in the future, we research tirelessly, always on the boundary of technological possibilities. We have a clear vision on the path to autonomous machines: to make the work of operators easier, through simple and sophisticated operating concepts. Our solutions give them the ability to respond to potential malfunctions with ease. The focus is on cost-effectiveness, as compared to non-assisted processing, the part costs for autonomous processes are significantly lower. Performance analysis: TRUMPF developers optimise the processing for all sheet thicknesses It just gets better – TRUMPF developers are evaluating cutting data in order to further optimise Active Speed Control Agile project planning: 2D laser development employees in a sprint review Electrifying: future technology arises in the electronics lab as well, where new components are put through their paces Nothing escapes a trained eye: visual inspection of part quality during the development process Nothing ventured, nothing gained: testing new functions and control parameters under real-world conditions are also part of the development of new machines Full overview: checking the protective glass after test running a machine in development There is no "I" in team: technical breakthroughs such as Active Speed Control and the development of the TruLaser Center 7030 can only be achieved as a team Ready for the future – be prepared for anything with intelligent functions from TRUMPF Assistance systems make life easier; they shorten and simplify many processes in laser cutting, as well as make them noticeably more reliable. This allows you to put your machines to optimal use, and minimise manual interventions. In addition to the newly developed Active Speed Control, TRUMPF also offers solutions for every process step in the form of intelligent functions. A compact selection of functions for autonomous laser cutting can be found here. All Setup Cutting Maintenance and fault elimination AdjustLine AdjustLine allows you to cut even materials of inferior quality quickly and with ease; the function automatically adjusts the parameters to the situation. This allows you to reduce the number of rejects and material costs. Automatic nozzle changer The nozzle changer automatically changes the cutting nozzle if required for processing a new order or due to wear. This allows you to benefit from reduced non-productive times and fewer manual interventions. BrightLine and BrightLine fiber The zenith of edge quality: for stainless and mild steel, your CO2 laser cuts with BrightLine. However, with BrightLine fiber, even the solid-state laser can deliver cutting results of the highest quality. Collision protection When cutting thin sheets, there is often the threat of collisions due to tipping parts. The sophisticated collision protection is a type of airbag for your cutting head, which guarantees utmost process reliability and prevents structural damage. Condition Guide The light on the Condition Guide shows you the status of important elements which influence the cutting capability; if required, the program provides you with recommendations for action and generates prognoses of when maintenance is needed. CoolLine Not even tight contours pose a problem with CoolLine. The function keeps your workpiece cool during the entire cutting process. This means that you can cut even intricate parts and achieve even tighter nests. DetectLine A camera system precisely determines the position of inserted sheets and enables reworking of cut parts with absolute precision. Additionally, the DetectLine automatically measures a cut focusing comb, and sets the focus position. Drop&Cut Thanks to the camera support in Drop&Cut, you can reproduce parts from existing programs in a matter of seconds. Additionally, you utilise unused remainder sheets. Highspeed Eco With Highspeed Eco turbo-charged cutting, you can double your sheet throughput and your feed rate, while your cutting gas consumption reduces by up to 70%. This makes nitrogen cutting with solid-state lasers extremely efficient. One-cutting-head strategy Replacing cutting heads is always time consuming; simply eliminate it entirely. With the one-cutting-head strategy, you process all sheet thicknesses with the same cutting head. Online condition checking of the protective glass Spatter can contaminate the focusing lenses of CO2-machines. LensLine monitors the lens and switches the beam off in the case of emergencies. The advantage of this is that the machine is only idle for a short amount of time for lens cleaning. Smart collision prevention Avoid expensive collisions with smart collision prevention: your machine processes parts and inner contours in a sequence that cleverly takes into account the tipping of parts that have been cut free. Smart nozzle automation If your nozzles are no longer in perfect condition, this can lead to burr formation. The consequence of this is reworking or rejects. Smart nozzle automation substitutes in the right nozzle and checks nozzle condition and beam centring. Leading the way – TruLaser Center 7030 Our full-service laser machine takes care of everything – from the drawing to the sorted part. Because if you want cost-effective laser cutting, you have to consider the entire process. We created the TruLaser Center 7030 with this aim in mind – we carefully examined all the components, re-imagined them, and integrated them into a single machine. The machine guarantees process reliability thanks to its integrated intelligence, for example with the SmartGate, SmartLift and SortMaster Speed. The novel machine concept with its additional axis and higher-level axis movements facilitates revolutionary productivity. Advantages for your laser processing The future of laser cutting is becoming simpler and less stressful. Read here to discover the advantages that integrating autonomous and partially autonomous technologies can offer for your 2D laser processing operation. TRUMPF's vision of autonomous machines We believe that the future is characterised by autonomous machines which lighten the load on operators. Learn more about our vision for autonomous machines and the far-reaching opportunities offered by machines, which are increasingly operating independently. Curious about the future of laser processing? What does autonomous laser cutting mean for your parts production? What benefits are there to you? Our 2D laser cutting experts would be happy to answer these as well as other questions.

How Isolite uses 3D laser cutting to help automotive industry meet emissions standards. - © Fotogloria / Jan Hosan Athanassios Kaliudis Of emission standards and 3D laser cutting S tricter emission standards were the best thing that could have happened to Isolite. Now all automotive manufacturers are looking to insulate their exhaust systems - and are beating a path to Isolite’s door. The company is managing the surge in demand with 3D laser cutting on a huge scale - combined with a touch of genius. There is a simple rule of thumb for exhaust aftertreatment: “the hotter it is, the cleaner it is.” And that’s why business is booming at Isolite – an SME headquartered in Ludwigshafen that employs some 500 people world-wide. The firm has tripled its revenue in just a few years. Its speciality: high-temperature insulation systems. The company’s actual expertise is concentrated within the layers of insulating materials that line the red-to white-hot components. Thin stainless steel shells compress the insulating materials to form a tightly sealed blanket that is precisely tailored to the shape of the components involved, which are found within machines and technical systems, turbines, engines and exhaust systems. To keep the insulation as lightweight as possible, the sheet metal shells are ultrathin. Better emissions figures thanks to laser technology “The hotter it is, the cleaner it is" reiterates Jonas Boettcher, Business Development Mana­ger at Isolite, who is holding one of the firm’s stainless steel shells – made of thin sheet metal and measuring almost a meter in length – in his hands. “The exhaust temperature plays a crucial role when it comes to the performance of particle filters and catalytic converters. Once the automotive industry understood this, heat within the exhaust system became a blessing rather than a nuisance.” This is why manufacturers now enclose almost every component – from the manifold to just before the exhaust pipe – in insulating material and stainless steel. “Ever since the focus has been on better emissions figures, we have been absolutely inundated,” explains Boettcher. Twenty 3D laser cutting cells operate in the Isolite "laser palace." © Fotogloria / Jan Hosan 3D laser cutting means mass production, flexibility and precision There is a specially shaped stainless steel shell for every insulation option. This is where the laser comes in. Speed is of the essence at all stages of the manufacturing process, which is why Isolite has built a veritable palace of 3D laser cutting systems: there are 20 double-cabin cells on one fac-tory floor in Ludwigshafen alone, cutting up to 28,000 shells a day. Boettcher: “ 3D laser cutting is the only process that meets our three core requirements: mass production, flexibility and precision.” Flexibility is essential, as Isolite not only makes prototypes, but also medium-sized batches and large-scale production runs. The component forms are alternated frequently; Isolite produces some 2,000 varieties in order to meet customer requirements. What’s more, the range is growing all the time. Some half-shells are six centimeters long, whereas others measure almost one-and-a-half meters. “We have two full-time programmers who program the 3D laser machines.” Deep-drawn form for a stainless steel outer shell (left), the 3D laser-cut final form (center) and overhang following removal (right). © Fotogloria / Jan Hosan Precision is imperative for half-shells Once the half-shells have been punched or deep-drawn, they are placed inside the laser cell, where the overhang is cut away. Precision is imperative here, as there is a tolerance of just half a milli-meter. After all, the fiber mats have to fit precisely within the form, with the half-shells closing with pinpoint accuracy. In order to clamp such varied components, Isolite would ordinarily need a traditional multipoint clamping apparatus. This grips the sheet metal at various points using adjustable clamps. But as the sheet metal at Isolite is often barely thicker than 0.15 millimeters, the half-shells begin to vibrate. “As the overhang gradually falls away, the component springs back slightly. Over the course of the entire cut, more and more vibrations enter the workpiece.” This even makes it hard for the precision-guided laser beam to observe the tolerance. “You can either accept these inaccuracies – or you can try to compensate for the vibrations. But it would actually be better to avoid them in the first place.” In order to cut in a vibration-free manner, however, the entire workpiece would have to lie on as extensive a surface as possible and pressed down. While this is no doubt economically viable for a few parts in large batches, how does it work with up to 2,000 variations? Boettcher is tight-lipped on this point: “All I can say is that we have managed it. Isolite is now able to clamp and hold each workpiece in its entirety and thus cut at maximum speed and with the utmost precision.” However, Boettcher is not willing to go into detail about how this has been achieved. Laser 3D-cutting Automotive Athanassios Kaliudis Press spokesperson TRUMPF laser technology TRUMPF Media Relations, Corporate Communications Send feedback to the author Download item as PDF These topics might be interesting for you 3D laser cutting machines from TRUMPF The future of lasers will be magical Company Deeg: The one-click future of parts fabrication

Cut tubes and profiles up to 500 kg in weight and 12.5 metres in length. Maximum productivity ensured by solid-state laser and automated loading. - XTREME laser tube cutting: TruLaser Tube 7000 fiber Need to cut long and heavy tubes or profiles? Boost your productivity to XXL with the powerhouse TruLaser Tube 7000 fiber. The 6 kW TruDisk solid-state laser with 2-in-1 fibres cuts through wall thicknesses of up to 14 mm and delivers high part quality, allowing you to quickly process an enormously versatile range of parts and materials. Machine loading is fully automated for tubes up to 12.5 metres in length with the LoadMaster Tube. Benefit from efficient small series production with the swivel-mounted conveyor system. Tubes and profiles up to 500 kg in weight and 12.5 metres in length Automated loading for tubes and profiles up to 12.5 metres in length Swivel-mounted conveyor system for tubes and profiles up to 12.5 metres in length Maximum productivity with solid-state laser Laser cutting in oversize format with the TruLaser Tube 7000 fiber XXL power: all the power you need to laser cut oversized tubes Processing large and heavy tubes The powerhouse can handle tubes and profiles weighing up to 500 kilograms and cuts tubes and profiles up to 12.5 metres in length with precision. Automatic loading for XXL tubes and profiles The LoadMaster Tube loads the laser tube-cutting machine fully automated with raw materials with a profile length up to 12.5 metres. Intermediate production made easy Automatically load several individual tubes up to 12.5 metres in length with the swivel-mounted conveyor system. The ideal solution for small lot sizes, intermediate production and special profiles. Want to make cutting XXL tubes easier for yourself? Find out more about the TruLaser Tube 7000 fiber on the product page.

Cut sheets up to 8 metres in length with high laser power and top cutting quality thanks to BrightLine fiber. High productivity for thin and thick sheets. - XTREME laser cutting: TruLaser 3060 fiber & TruLaser 3080 fiber Want to cut better? With the TruLaser 3060 fiber und TruLaser 3080 fiber machines, you can process sheet metals up to eight meters long in all sheet thicknesses, quickly and with great versatility. The process is made particularly productive thanks to the dream team of the TruDisk 24001 laser and a fully adaptive lens system. BrightLine fiber ensures high cutting quality in thick sheet metal, while CoolLine cools your parts, making filigree geometries possible, even with high laser power. XTREME laser cutting can also be automated: Round off your system with Starmatik loading and unloading units. Cut sheets up to 8 metres in length Extremely productive for thin and thick sheets Top cutting quality thanks to BrightLine fiber Safe cutting with high laser power Laser cutting in oversize format with the TruLaser Series 3000 fiber Maximum laser power of 24 kW XXL power: All the power you need to laser cut oversized sheets Utilise the full power of the laser Whether you're dealing with fusion cutting, flame cutting or complex applications: thanks to the perfect combination of laser power, machine design and smart functions, the full 24 kilowatts of the TruDisk Laser reach your sheet. As a result, you can enjoy top parts with short cutting times. Universally high quality BrightLine fiber turns the solid-state laser into a universal tool so you can achieve top cutting results for every sheet thickness. Benefit from all of the advantages offered by the TruDisk during thin sheet processing, especially the high speeds. Keep a cool head, even when dealing with thick sheets Intricately cut thick mild steel yourself with the CoolLine function and nest parts closer, resulting in less scrap skeleton and material consumption. Want to make XTREME laser cutting easier? Find out more about the TruLaser 3060 fiber and TruLaser 3080 fiber on the product page.

TRUMPF lasers perform a wide variety of cutting and drilling work in metal, plastic, paper and stone using a non-contact processing method. - Laser cutting as a contact-free slitting process Laser cutting is a slitting process with which it is possible to cut metallic and non-metallic raw materials of different material thicknesses. This is based around a laser beam which is guided, formed, and bundled. When it hits the workpiece, the material heats up to the extent that it melts or vaporises. In this process, the whole laser power is concentrated on one point, with a diameter that is often less than half a millimetre. If more heat is introduced into this area than can dissipate through heat conduction, the laser beam will penetrate the material entirely – the cutting process has begun. While other processes involve applying large-scale tools with enormous power to the sheet metal, the laser beam completes its task without any contact. In this way, the tool does not incur wear, and no deformities or damage to the workpiece occur. Advantages of laser cutting Material range All materials common in industrial processing – from steel to aluminium, stainless steel and non-ferrous metal sheets, all the way to non-metal materials such as plastics, glass, wood or ceramics – can be cut safely and in high quality with the laser. Very different sheet thicknesses of 0.5 to over 30 millimetres can be cut using the tool. This extremely wide material range makes the laser the top cutting tool for many applications in the area of metals and non-metals. Contour freedom The bundled laser beam only heats up the material locally, and the rest of the workpiece is subjected to minimal thermal stresses or not at all. This means the kerf is barely wider than the beam and even complex, intricate contours may be cut smoothly and free of burrs. Time-consuming post-processing is no longer necessary in most cases. Due to its flexibility, this cutting procedure is often used for small lot sizes, large variant ranges and in prototype construction. High-quality cutting edges with ultrashort pulses Ultrashort pulse lasers vaporise virtually every material so quickly that heat influence cannot be detected, thereby creating high-quality cutting edges without ejection of melted material. This makes the lasers ideal for the manufacture of the most intricate metal products, such as stents for medical technology. In the display industry, ultrashort pulse lasers cut chemically hardened glass. Discover our products for laser cutting Whether 2D or 3D laser processing – TRUMPF offers machines and systems for extremely various applications for you. Laser cutting processes compared In our technology comparison, you can see the advantages and disadvantages of laser cutting compared to the conventional slitting processes of flame cutting and plasma cutting. The laser cutting process The interaction between a focussed laser beam and workpiece forms the basis of laser cutting. In order for this process to be carried out reliably and precisely, numerous components and additional equipment are used on and around the laser beam, which will be illustrated in the following graphic. Focussing optics: lens and mirror optics focus the laser beam on the processing point Laser beam: the laser beam hits the workpiece and heats it up until it melts or vaporises. Cutting gas: the resulting melt is blown out of the kerf using cutting gas. The gas is emitted coaxially with the laser beam from the nozzle. Drag lines: during laser cutting, the cutting edge is given a typical drag line pattern. At a lower cutting speed, these drag lines are virtually parallel to the laser beam. Melt: the laser beam – bundled laser light – is guided along the contour and melts the material locally. Cutting point: on the workpiece, the kerf is barely wider than the focussed laser beam. Nozzle: laser beam and cutting gas meet the workpiece through the cutting nozzle. Cutting direction: the kerf is created by moving the cutting head or the workpiece in a specific direction. Various applications in the area of laser cutting Virtually no visible burr formation: the gearwheel shows the excellent part quality produced by laser cutting even in thicker materials. From mild to stainless steel all the way to highly reflective materials ­– all industrially common materials can be processed by the laser with high levels of quality. Fast, burr-free and in three dimensions: this is how a laser cuts hotforming components such as B pillars in the automotive industry. In fusion cutting, the laser cuts thin stainless and mild steel with a thickness from 0.5 millimetres, very quickly and cost effectively. Even components which are formed three-dimensionally such as heat protection sheets for exhaust gas systems may be precisely cut with a laser. Even brittle materials such as glass can be processed using laser cutting machines and at high speeds with mirror-smooth results – without burrs or chips. BrightLine fiber is a sophisticated combination of special optics, flow-optimised nozzles and additional technical innovations. The advantage: due to the high-quality cutting edges, parts do not get caught during part removal. Compared to mechanical slitting processes, a laser allows household knives to be produced faster and without requiring post-processing on the cutting edge. Short and ultrashort pulse lasers cut the most intricate structures at the micrometre level quickly and cost effectively. This is how laser-cut hands for the clock industry or laser-cut implants for medical technology are created. All laser cutting procedures at a glance When it comes to cutting metal and non-metal raw materials, the laser is in many cases the first choice as a universal tool. The laser beam cuts nearly any contour quickly and with flexibility – regardless of how intricate and complex the shape is, or how thin the material. In the process, various cutting gases and pressures influence the machining process and the result. Flame cutting For flame cutting, oxygen is used as the cutting gas; this is blown into the kerf with a pressure of up to 6 bar. There, it burns and oxidises the metal melt. The energy generated by this chemical reaction supports the laser beam. Flame cutting allows for very high cutting speeds and the processing of thick sheet metals and mild steels. Fusion cutting During fusion cutting, nitrogen or argon are used as a cutting gas. This is driven through the kerf with a pressure between 2 and 20 bar, and unlike flame cutting, does not react with the metal surface in the kerf. This cutting procedure has the advantage that the cutting edges remain free of burrs or oxides, and reworking is barely required. Sublimation cutting Sublimation cutting is primarily used for precision cutting tasks which require very high-quality cutting edges. In this process, the laser vaporises the material with as little melting as possible. The material vapour creates a high amount of pressure in the kerf, which forces the melt out in an upwards and downwards direction. The assist gas – nitrogen, argon or helium – shields the cutting areas from the environment and ensures that the cutting edges remain free of oxides. Laser precision cutting For laser beam precision cutting, individuals bores are joined together with pulsed laser energy; these overlap by 50 to 90% and form a kerf. The short pulses create very high levels of peak pulse powers and extreme irradiances on the workpiece surface. The advantage: heating up of the component is very minimal, which allows for the cutting of even the most intricate parts without heat distortion. Parameters which influence the laser cutting process Focus position and focal diameter The focus position influences the irradiance and form of the kerf on the workpiece. The focal diameter determines the gap width as well as the form of the kerf. Laser power So that the processing threshold – the point at which the material begins to melt – is exceeded, a specific amount of energy per surface area unit is required. This is defined as: energy per surface area unit = irradiance x exposure time on the workpiece. Nozzle diameter Choosing the right nozzle is crucial for part quality. The form of the gas beam as well a the gas quantity are determined by the diameter of the nozzle. Operating mode Continuous wave operation or pulsing – the operating mode allows you to control whether the laser energy is to hit the workpiece continuously or with interruptions. Cutting speed The respective cutting task and the material to be processed determine the cutting speed. As a basic rule: the more laser power that is provided, the faster the cutting can be carried out. Additionally, the cutting speed is reduced with increasing material thickness. If the speed for the respective material has been set too high or too low, increased surface roughness and burr formation can occur as a result. Degree of polarisation Nearly all CO 2 lasers deliver linear polarised laser light. If contours are cut, the cutting result changes with the cutting direction: if the light oscillates parallel to the cutting direction, the edge will be smooth. If the light oscillates perpendicular to the cutting direction, this creates a burr. This is why linear polarised laser light is often switched over to circular polarised. The degree of polarisation determines how well the target circular polarisation was reached, and is decisive for cutting quality. Polarisation must not be changed for solid-state lasers; it delivers direction-independent cutting results. Cutting gases and cutting pressures Different process gases are used depending on the cutting procedure; they are driven through the kerf at varying pressures. Argon and nitrogen as cutting gas, for example, have the advantage that they do not react to the melted metal in the kerf, while at the same time shielding the cutting area from the environment. Laser cutting with a gas mixture Burrs in mild steel and aluminium can be reduced when combining high laser power with the application of a gas mixture of nitrogen and oxygen. The improvement in part quality depends on the material type, material alloy and material quality in thick sheet ranges between six to twelve millimetres. Discover the variety of different cutting procedures Flame cutting The standard method for mild steel. Fusion cutting The ideal cutting process for all meltable materials. Sublimation cutting High-quality cutting edges for fine cutting tasks. Drilling The laser beam produces both very fine and large holes using a non-contact method. Contact TRUMPF Ltd. Telephone +44 1582 725335 Fax +44 1582 399260 Email

Instead of cutting glass by ablation, just take a laser and generate a tension inside the pane so it fractures in a controlled fashion. - Athanassios Kaliudis Laser cuts glass – at the cutting edge I nstead of cutting glass by ablation, just take a laser and generate a tension inside the pane so it fractures in a controlled fashion. And with the right optics this happens at a speed of one meter per second. Using light to machine glass. Initially, this seems like an absurd thought. The most obvious property of glass is, in fact, being transparent to light. The beams produced by a solid-state laser, usually in the infrared spectrum, thus simply pass through panes of glass. When using ultra-short pulsed laser light in the picosecond or femtosecond range, this is not the case. The massive spatial and temporal density of the photons in the pulse modify the absorption mechanism in transparent materials. This makes it possible to use laser beams to process synthetic sapphire and glass. Turbocharger for material modifications Instead of cutting glass by ablation, working one’s way down pulse-by-pulse, an elegant technique was recently developed to cleave thin, hardened glass such as that used in smartphone displays. Material modification is the keyword.Ultra-short pulsed laser beams are focused inside the glass and there they modify a narrow zone along the desired cleavage line. The modification generates intrinsic tensions; the glass fractures in a controlled fashion. The surface is smooth as a mirror and accurate to a hundredth of a millimeter – no matter whether straight or curved. TRUMPF has developed a new optics which can accelerate this procedure a hundred-fold: TOP Cleave. The TOP Cleave optics spread the power of an ultra-short pulse laser along the beam axis, creating a focus line. This increases by a hundred-fold the speed of separating glass using material modification, to one meter a second. Outstanding edge quality in ultra-thin glass. Ultra-short pulse lasers induce intrinsic tension in the glass. This results in a controlled fracture through the plane, along the stress line. All outlines are possible: no matter whether straight or curved. Inside curves are no problem, either. It distributes the intensity of the laser light uniformly along the axis of the beam. In this way the focus is stretched in length; the beam spot becomes a focus line. The laser pulses no longer scan the glass level by level, but instead modify – in a single pass – the complete interior separation surface. Depending on the pulse energy, this glass may be up to 700 microns thick. When working this thickness, the high-performance TruMicro lasers equipped with TOP Cleave achieve cutting speeds of up to one meter per second – a hundred times faster than without the option. Separating glass one millimeter thick The new flagship among the TruMicro lasers is the TruMicro 5080. It delivers, at up to 1,000 kilohertz, the highest repetition rate and with a maximum of 500 microjoules the highest-energy pulse in the world of ultra-short pulse lasers for industrial use. The laser produces average power exceeding 150 watts – making it extremely powerful in every application. The TOP Cleave optics can distribute the high power of the TruMicro 5080 along such a long focus line that the laser light can use modification techniques to separate glass more than one millimeter thick. The TruMicro 5080 is also available in the femto edition. It is the first industrial laser that can produce femtosecond pulses in the green spectrum. In this way it joins the best of two worlds. In spite of high peak intensities, the femtosecond laser pulses inject even less thermal energy into the workpiece in comparison with a picosecond pulse. This makes them suitable especially for extremely delicate processing of metals or thermally sensitive materials like special films. TruMicro 5080 The new flagship among the TruMicro lasers. With average power of 150 watts, repetition rate of up to 1,000 kilohertz and maximum pulse energy of 500 microjoules, this is at present the most powerful ultra-short pulse laser for industrial use. Green light can be focused down to a very small spot. Green radiation has a larger Rayleigh length than infrared light and, as a consequence, greater depth of focus. This makes the TruMicro 5080 especially well suited for drilling extremely fine and precise holes such as those found in injection nozzles. A further advantage of the TruMicro 5080 is that it can easily be integrated into industrial machinery and can be maintained while still inside the equipment. This eliminates troublesome removal and the subsequent readjustment of the beam path. A new technical concept is responsible for this. All the relevant components for maintenance and exchange – like power cables, cooling lines, the electronics and the optical area – are easily accessible from a single side. This lowers the downtime for machine tools and boosts their economy considerably. Laser femtosecond laser Ultrashort pulse lasers Microprocessing Laser cutting Athanassios Kaliudis Press spokesperson TRUMPF laser technology TRUMPF Media Relations, Corporate Communications Send feedback to the author Download item as PDF You might also be interested in this Because we all Want Devcies with Bended Screens: Laser lift-off for OLED displays-Displays „LMD Grows Stronger in Additive Manufacturing“ This ingenious laser welds glass without any additional material

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Different cutting procedures are available to manufacturing companies for cutting metallic materials. The three most common procedures are highlighted on this page: the laser as a tool stands out in direct comparison with plasma cutting and autogenic flame cutting, thanks to its high degree of precision and its working speed – even for non-metallic materials. Icon Laser cutting Icon Plasma cutting Icon Autogenic flame cutting Conventional area of application Metallic materials (mild steel, stainless steel, aluminium, copper, brass, foiled sheets, galvanised sheets) Non-metallic materials (carbon, glass, plastics, wood, leather, etc.) Metallic materials (steel, stainless steel, aluminium, copper and brass, various conductive metals) Metallic materials (mild steel and low-alloy steels, but not aluminium or stainless steel). Only metals whose oxides have a lower melting point than the base metal can be cut with this process. Sheet thickness range From 0.5 mm to over 30 mm Hand-operated up to 38 mm; computer-controlled up to 150 mm**with extremely high energy input From 1 mm to 1,000 mm Quality Low edge roughness and burr formation; very little spatter residue; hardly any post-processing required, depending on the sheet thickness A great deal of spatter residue; very wide joins; a great deal of post-processing (for example, deburring) required A great deal of spatter residue; very wide joins; a great deal of post-processing required Productivity High working speeds with a low-maintenance system; fluid process sequence Very dependent on contour and requirements; process reliability is not always ensured - for example, the hole diameter for aluminium and stainless steel must be at least three times larger than the sheet thickness for a reliable process Low productivity as it is usually a hand-operated process which consequently takes longer; metal must first be heated up Precision Extremely fine light beam; the most delicate of contours are possible Relatively thick beam; delicate contours are not possible High heat input, therefore less precision possible Speed Very fast (several metres per second) Fast for bevel cuts in thick sheet metal Slow (for example, up to 750 mm/min for a 10 mm thick sheet, as the metal must be preheated) Contour flexibility Very high. Small kerf of < 0.5 mm with accurate angles and very small holes Low. Large kerf of 1 mm to 4 mm, no inner contours with sharp angles, imprecise and "rounded" corners, smallest hole size must be one to three times larger than the sheet thickness, high heat input Low. No small holes or detailed shapes; large, rough shapes are more likely. Permits steep angles of up to 70° (compared to 45° for plasma) due to the concentration of the oxygen jet Sustainability of the technology Very high. Laser cutting is an innovative technology which is constantly being developed further. Each laser can be used to cut two- and three-dimensionally, with several axes and different material. Tubes and profiles can also be processed. High. CNC plasma cutting systems can be used in a variety of ways. It is possible to cut two- and three-dimensionally with several axes. Tubes can also be processed. Low. The technology can no longer be adapted for new cutting requirements. One reason is because only a few variables (for example, the nozzle) can still be further developed and improved. Contact TRUMPF Ltd. Telephone +44 1582 725335 Email

TRUMPF specialists implement the largest customer-specific adjustment of a TruLaser Cell 3000 to date for toolcraft AG. - Daniel Kurr Welding, cutting, melting: A machine made to measure T ruLaser Cell 3000 is already a universal machine. In addition to two and three-dimensional laser cutting and welding, it also masters laser metal deposition. But that wasn't nearly enough for Christoph Hauck from toolcraft AG. TRUMPF implemented the largest customer-specific adjustment of a TruLaser Cell 3000 to date for the company. The laser glides swiftly over the flawless, smooth surface of a large steel roller while simultaneously spraying an extremely fine metal powder. It merges with the surface and at first only leaves faint lines behind on the component. However, after the laser has made its precision markings several times, the powder transforms the flat lines into three-dimensional structures. Bit by bit, the roller is printed all over with this three-dimensional pattern. Christoph Hauck, Chief Technology and Sales Officer at toolcraft AG, and Klaus Eimann, Technical Director Product & Packaging Innovation at the consumer goods corporation Procter & Gamble, watch the process with fascination through the work window of the TruLaser Cell 3000 . It worked: A practical application process resulted from an ingenious idea that will save Procter & Gamble both time and money in the future. Material application instead of ablation At Procter & Gamble, the roller is part of a production system for the series production of hygiene articles. Up to now, the pattern on this was milled out of the metal. A complex and laborious process. Klaus Eimann explains: "The structure of the roller is quickly worn out in continuous operation. Until now, this meant we had to completely replace it. That's expensive and not very sustainable." Together with his colleague, Uwe Schneider, Vice President Baby Care Engineering, he investigated the alternatives, and actually found one: Laser material deposition (LMD) is an additive process that is able to create three-dimensional structures. "If we apply material to the component then we can rebuild the structures over and over again after they are worn out - so repairing the roller instead of replacing it," explains Eimann about his thought process. Eimann turned to Christoph Hauck from toolcraft for the series-suitable development of this application. toolcraft AG is a family company based in Georgensgmünd, Bavaria. The company has made a name for itself internationally with 3D printing and the construction of individual turnkey robot solutions. Hauck and his team have also been working with LMD for years. Hauck is delighted by the possibility of using the technology for a focused application and he approves of a development partnership with Procter & Gamble. One machine takes care of everything Hauck knows that he first needs a suitable laser system for the development of the requested LMD process and the subsequent roller manufacture. And it can't just be one off the rack. Moreover, a development partnership is far from a production order. But Hauck says: "Sometimes, you just have to do it." Together with his team, he is developing a requirements specification for a "one-size fits all solution"; a machine that does everything. "If it hadn't worked out with the order, I at least wanted to have a laser machine in the company on which we could operated comprehensive, basic LMD research," he explains, pragmatically. Christoph Hauck turned to TRUMPF and it turned out that the TruLaser Cell 3000 could theoretically be the machine for the job. With one small catch: It would have to do a bit more that the series system. So Hauck met with Andreas Vogel, expert for customer-specific solutions at TRUMPF. After just a few meetings it became clear: This was his man. "Andreas Vogel and his team listened to exactly what we wanted, made suggestions, and were infected by our enthusiasm," Hauck relates. Christoph Hauck is not afraid to take the initiative: "We also sometimes implement application ideas at our own expense to prove that products and processes can be improved with a relatively new technology, such as LMD." Christoph Hauck (left), Chief Technology and Sales Officer at toolcraft AG, and Klaus Eimann, (middle) Technical Director Product & Packaging Innovation at the consumer goods group Procter & Gamble, and Florian Schlund (right), Project Manager in Laser Metal Deposition at toolcraft, worked on the idea of extending the lifetime of tools using LMD. Tailored to customer specifications If we had to give Andreas Vogel a title, "Granter of wishes" would be most fitting. Vogel develops tailored concepts together with his colleagues from the mechanics, software, and electronics fields, for customers who find that the series machines from TRUMPF don't offer them exactly what they need. Customization is becoming increasingly important in the machine tool industry. "More and more frequently, our customers are confronted with tasks that require specific solutions," explains Vogel. "It's the same for toolcraft, for whom we ultimately implemented the largest customer-specific adjustment of a TruLaser Cell 3000 to date." Designed for large, heavy parts It was the rotary axis of the TruLaser Cell 3000 that actually came under scrutiny in the custom product. "The Procter & Gamble rollers are huge and weigh several hundred kilograms, and the series rotary axes buckle under that," explains Vogel, continuing: "So we carried out stress tests to determine the maximum weight the rotary axes could bear and what we had to do to make them more robust." Special solutions were also required for the size of the components: "We had to somehow get the large roller into and back out of the machine, and that certainly couldn't be done manually. So we developed a motorized concept," says Vogel. Along with the numerous further modifications that are required for the LMD process development for Procter & Gamble, TRUMPF experts are building a real LMD play mode for Hauck and his team. A so-called options module provides toolcraft all the options for the development of new processes with the help of laser metal deposition. This also makes the patented high speed laser metal deposition (HS-LMD) available. It enables very fast recoating processes with small layer thicknesses to be achieved for rotationally symmetrical components. "With LMD and HS-LMD we can work with completely new coating materials, for example, wolfram carbides," explains Hauck. Today, the modified TruLaser Cell 3000 is already in operation at toolcraft. Procter & Gamble issued the company with the order for the series production of the roller. The tailor-made TruLaser Cell 3000 has since been put into continuous operation at toolcraft and Christoph Hauck and his team are bubbling over with ideas in which LMD plays a crucial role. "It may well be that we soon have a few more additional requests for our custom-made machines. A green laser, for example, would be great," says Hauck, grinning. Andreas Vogel is pleased - not least because the machine concept developed for toolcraft has now also piqued the interest of other customers: "We already have several customer requests for whom the concept fits the bill." Klaus Eimann (right), Technical Director Product & Packaging Innovation for the consumer goods corporation Procter & Gamble, explains about the partnership with toolcraft and TRUMPF: "We found the entire development of LMD technology profitable, because they met our requests with a high degree of agility, speed, and customization. The basic idea of the joint development between Procter & Gamble and toolcraft was to put structures on anvils using LMD. This not only enabled us to increase the lifetime of the components that were subject to heavy wear, it also relieved the wear to the structure due to repairs. Laser Laser cutting Laser welding Laser metal deposition 2D cutting 3D-cutting Daniel Kurr TRUMPF Group Communications Send feedback to the author Download item as PDF You may also be interested in: TruLaser Cell 3000 TRUMPF presents the figures for the fiscal year 2021/22 // Turnover increases to 4.2 billion Euros "We help our customers save energy"

A 2D laser machine handles standard jobs well. A punch-laser machine is the better choice for complex components with formed sections or extrusions. - © TRUMPF Ramona Hönl Lena explains: When is a punch-laser machine worth it? A 2D laser machine handles standard jobs well. A punch-laser machine is the better choice for complex components with formed sections or extrusions. Lena Eisenhardt, demonstration technician at TRUMPF's Customer Center, explains the reasons why to us. A 2D laser machine has its limitations when it comes to complex jobs. For example, if a worker wants to insert a thread into the component, they first have to take it to the punching machine. They then cut the components with the 2D laser and have to sort them manually. This is time-consuming when dealing with large quantities, and the process is prone to errors. All this costs the company time and money. Two steps on one machine A punch-laser machine is the better option for large, complex jobs. Here, the punching and cutting gets done on one machine. Only in exceptional cases will the operator have to intervene between these machining steps. Less work done by hand means faster, smoother production. When the machine has done its job, it sorts the parts automatically or conveys them into boxes. This lightens the operator’s workload. Lena Eisenhardt Lena Eisenhardt apprenticed as an industrial mechanic at TRUMPF. She has been working as a demo technician in the TRUMPF Customer Center since 2018. In spring of 2021, she will complete her advanced training to earn certification as Bachelor Professional of Metal Production and Management. Sheet Metal Punch laser processing Ramona Hönl Spokesperson for machine tools Send feedback to the author Download item as PDF You might also be interested in: Automation in bending saves time Job shop business relies on digitization TRUMPF product page: Punch laser machines