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JDSU, Amada collaborate on development of direct-diode laser to cut metal

JDSU, Milpitas, Calif., a developer of technologies for the optical-networking market, has collaborated with Amada, a manufacturer of metal fabricating tools, to develop a new direct-diode laser that provides up to 2 kW of output power. The laser has been integrated into Amada’s new ExC sheet metal cutting system.

Direct-diode lasers have predominantly been used for welding or for treating the surface of metals during manufacturing processes. The design developed by JDSU and Amada is one of the first that uses the technology to cut metal.

The new system cuts mild steel sheets 30 percent faster and cuts aluminum sheets 75 percent faster than traditional CO2 systems, according to Amada, and improves cut surface smoothness. The direct-diode engine is compact and integrated, reducing maintenance and cutting power costs by about 50 percent during sheet metal processes, the company states.