Oscillating laser beam helps boost cutting accuracy

Scanlab GmbH has developed the Weldyna scan head for cutting and welding with a high-frequency oscillating laser beam.

The oscillating beam cuts through thick metal sheets and fiber-reinforced plastics. With its high wobble motion frequencies of several kilohertz and the availability of freely definable scan patterns, the beam offers fast cutting speeds and improved cut quality, the company reports.

Overlapping laser beam motions relative to the seam geometry enable tear-resistant welding of diverse materials, even those with poor weldability. Splatter formation is reduced, making weld seams and cut edges smooth while slowing down optics wear.

The scan head is designed for multikilohertz lasers of high beam quality and features digital servo control, an integrated sensor system for real-time monitoring, and water and air cooling. It can be easily integrated or installed with collimation and focusing modules of commercial fixed optics.