Rotary index configuration simplifies switch from flat sheet to tube, pipe cutting

Amada has added a rotary index to its FOM2 laser cutting system for cutting medium to thick materials. The rotary index is located on one of three interchangeable shuttle pallets, simplifying the switch from flat sheet cutting to tube or pipe cutting.

The FOM2RI-3015 can process round, square, rectangle, C-channel, and angle iron. The rotary system can handle materials up to 441 lbs. The company’s Dr. Abe_Tube software, which is preprogrammed with many common shapes and configurations, can be added for fabrication of tubular structures that fit together for welding.

The rotary index is an integrated unit, allowing the cutting head to be positioned near the controllable pneumatic chuck and thereby minimizing the dead zone. Bowed pipe or tubing can be cut without vibration while maintaining accuracy from end to end, the company states.

At the heart of the laser cutting system is the Amada/Fanuc RF-excited resonator. This fast axial laser is designed to produce high edge quality by improving the overall shape and stability of the laser beam itself, says the manufacturer.