Rotary Fiber Lasers

Rotary Fiber Lasers – The Ultimate FAQ Guide

If you’re considering incorporating a rotary fiber laser into your business operations, this comprehensive guide is here to provide you with all the essential information. We’ll dispel any misconceptions you may have and validate the facts you’re already aware of.

Ready to dive into the world of rotary fiber lasers? Buckle up, because we’re about to embark on an enlightening journey and guide you through the world of rotary fiber lasers!

What is a Rotary Fiber Laser?

A rotary fiber laser is a unique accessory that enhances the functionality of laser processing. Similar to how welding machines and equipment can be supplemented, fiber lasers can also benefit from additional support for specific tasks. The primary function of the rotary fiber laser attachment is to rotate the workpiece, allowing the fiber laser to execute its task without moving the cutting head.

For a visual demonstration, check out this video from MyersWoodshop as they explain what a rotary fiber laser is!

https://youtube.com/shorts/VQ1oQpKKqvI?si=wxVgIN7JXMmigPUl

Is a Rotary Laser Cutter the Same as a Rotary Fiber Laser?

Don’t be confused – a rotary fiber laser and a rotary laser cutter are essentially the same thing. The terminology varies based on its application. Some refer to them as rotary fiber lasers due to the rotation and spinning of the workpiece.

Others call them rotary laser cutters because they serve as an attachment to a fiber laser cutter. Unlike in welding processes, it doesn’t move continuously but operates according to the set program, as shown in the MyersWoodshop video above.

Diode Laser vs. Fiber Laser: Which is Better For You?

A lot of people are confused as to whether they have and need diode lasers or fiber lasers. When, in reality, they’re different! Here’s a table that outlines how they are different or similar:

	Fiber Laser	Diode Laser
Cutting Accuracy and Precision	Fiber lasers produce cuts with a very small kerf width	Diode lasers produce cuts with a slightly tighter tolerance and superior edge quality than a fiber laser
Cutting Speed	Fiber lasers are the most powerful and thus the most expensive of all types. These have revolutionized laser cutting and engraving	The direct diode laser beam has a higher absorption rate than fiber laser technology, which means more energy is converted to heat, resulting in metal being cut at delirious speeds
Material Flexibility	Fiber lasers offer little in terms of material flexibility. The wavelength of fiber laser is only suitable for laser cutting or engraving metal workpieces	Diode lasers can cut or engrave a variety of materials like acrylic, wood, plastics, fabrics, leather, aluminum, etc.
Process Efficiency	Fiber lasers have a wall-plug efficiency between 40 to 50 percent	Diode lasers are solid-state lasers and hence have less maintenance requirement.
Wavelengths	Fiber lasers have a wavelength of 1060 nm, which is readily absorbed by metals.	Diode lasers have wavelengths ranging from 550 nm to 950nm, which falls in the visible light region of the electromagnetic spectrum
Lifespan	Fiber lasers tend to have a long lifespan, around 25,000 hours or more	The lifespan of diode lasers is not explicitly mentioned, but they are known to last longer than CO2 lasers
Maintenance	Fiber lasers require regular maintenance and are generally geared towards industrial use	Diode lasers have less maintenance requirement. The only risk for a diode laser is the overheating of the laser module which is dealt with by a dedicated cooling system

Is a Laser Rotary Just a Laser Attachment?

Yes, a laser rotary is an attachment that can significantly streamline the workload for operators.

It functions as an extra hand that holds, positions, spins, and rotates the material, enabling the laser cutter to operate without having to move.

To provide a clearer picture, consider that the laser cutting head only cuts downward. As a result, it typically cannot engrave the bottom, sides, or front/back end of an object. However, a rotary fiber laser attachment removes this limitation, allowing the laser to function without the risk of needing to adjust the material or workpiece’s positions.

How Do You Operate a Rotary Fiber Laser?

Operating a rotary fiber laser doesn’t require you to have decades of experience with robotics and machines. If you’re able to operate a simple industrial CNC machine, you will definitely be able to operate this.

Step #1: Ensure Safety

Before you begin, make sure the machine is switched off. This is a crucial safety measure to prevent any accidental operation.

Step #2: Establish the Connection

Connect the rotary axis plug to the machine. This is the physical connection that allows the machine to control the rotary axis.

Step #3: Prepare the Object

Place the object you wish to engrave onto the rotary attachment. Make sure it’s secure and won’t move during the engraving process.

Step #4: Adjust the Marking Head

The marking head needs to be at the correct distance from the object for optimal engraving. Adjust it as necessary.

Step #5: Calculate Perimeter

Measure the diameter of the cylinder and multiply it by 3.14 to get the perimeter. The length of the text file (X size) should not be more than this value.

Step #6: Input Your Design

Now, enter the text or design you want to engrave on the object. This could be anything from a simple text message to a complex design.

Step #7: Set the Parameters

Finally, adjust the power and speed settings according to the material of the object and the depth of engraving you desire.

NOTE: Workers need to at least have background knowledge with laser machines in order to make it work.

What is a DIY Laser Rotary Attachment?

In the best and simplest terms possible, a DIY Laser Rotary Attachment is a device that you can build yourself to enhance the capabilities of a laser cutter or engraver.

This attachment allows the laser machine to engrave on cylindrical objects. The key components of this device include a roller assembly and a stepper motor, which are connected together. The cylindrical object to be engraved is placed on the rollers.

The operation of the attachment is managed by the same software that controls the laser cutter. Yes, you read that right–there needs to be a software. The software settings are adjusted based on the diameter of the object and the steps per rotation.

Common parts such as steel rods, pulleys, bearings, and timing belts can be used to construct DIY versions of these attachments.

What is the Difference Between Rotary and Laser Engraver?

Rotary and laser engravers are both used for engraving a variety of materials but they operate differently and yield different results.

https://youtu.be/NAxX00VzYcg?si=rP4QGJ0pJWTx0Ci2

What is a Rotary Engraver?

A rotary engraver uses a computer numeric control (CNC) technology, specifically a CNC mill.

The cutting tool, which can range from carbide to diamond, is mounted on a rotating spindle that moves in the x, y, and z axes via stepper motors through a computer-aided algorithm. Rotary engraving is suitable for virtually any material, including coated and non-coated metals, wood, and plastic.

What is a Laser Engraver?

On the other hand, a laser engraver operates by reflecting a beam of light via a series of mirrors that direct the beam down through a lens, focusing the light into heat at a specific place. This process ablates the material’s surface, revealing either a contrasting color or leaving an engraved mark.

Laser engraving provides a consistent level of precision and does not require tool bits or ink that come into contact with the engraving surface and wear out.

Can a Rotary Tool Engrave?

Yes, a rotary tool can indeed be used for engraving. It is a versatile tool that can be used on various materials such as metal, wood, and glass. The engraving process involves using different bits and techniques, which can be adjusted based on the hardness and thickness of the material.

However, for harder and thicker metals like steel or brass, bits with diamond wheel or diamond burr coating are recommended.

Are Chinese Rotary Fiber Laser Manufacturers Trustworthy?

Absolutely! In fact, most American and European brands rely on Chinese technology when it comes to rotary fiber lasers. Since most technologies start in China, they go to Chinese manufacturers for the right guidance.

Out of the thousands of rotary fiber laser suppliers in the country, SOHO Cutting has been one of the best and most relied-on manufacturers of rotary fiber lasers in the industry.

Why Work With SOHO Cutting?

There are a million reasons why businesses and organizations worldwide choose to work with SOHO Cutting. But the strongest reasons they have are:

We have a dedicated customer service department that provides support both before and after sales.
Our research and development (R&D) team is known for its strict adherence to compliance and quality.
We boast a world-class product line, assembled using components sourced from the finest suppliers in the country.
Our team comprises knowledgeable researchers and engineers.
We offer global access to our products and services.

If you don’t want to spend a lifetime finding a good rotary fiber laser manufacturer, SOHO Cutting is your best bet!

Besides rotary fiber lasers, you can also bank on us if you need help and assistance with plasma cutting machines, laser welders, fiber laser cutters, tube fiber lasers, and many more!