Integrated Pierce Detection in Fiber Lasers

Piercing is a necessary but time consuming step in sheet metal cutting, particularly in thicker materials. Knowing exactly when pierce through is achieved is key to cutting efficiency, by eliminating wasted dwell time. Pierce detection has been a high priced optional extra on top end cutting process head but its uptake has to date been limited. SPI Lasers has developed a novel sensor within the laser that looks at back reflected light from the work piece. This provides a signal that accurately indicates when pierce through is achieved which can be used to eliminate fixed pierce times and yields significant time savings that can be ten percent or more. This article explains the technical approach and the advantages that machine builders can benefit from by integrating this feature.