TechStories made by stoba: Laser micromachining with ultrashort pulse laser is the key to high-precision manufacturing technology
The requirements in the manufacturing industry, such as in the automotive, medical, aerospace and tool and mold making industries, are rising continuously. Increasing quantities and high precision results at the same time demand flexible and accurately fitting machining technologies when machining workpieces.
Most efficient removal at optimum energy density
Ultrashort lasers are potentially capable of replacing the classic manufacturing processes in many areas. They enable new applications that were previously inconceivable. Ultrashort pulse lasers are lasers that have a pulse duration in the pico or femtosecond range. An essential feature of these light pulses is their high peak intensities, which can be achieved with very low output power levels due to the strong time compression. This permits highly precise material removal as well as the machining of temperature-sensitive materials without thermal damage in the surrounding zones. Thus, USP lasers are predestined for machining sensitive and transparent materials.
High-precision laser machining and automation
The stoba Customized Machinery laser systems based on USP lasers allow the machining of metal workpieces down to the micrometer range with pinpoint accuracy. The range of applications is impressive, from laser ablation such as micro-drilling, structuring to precision cutting.
stoba Customized Machinery sees itself as a developer of technological visions and as a quality guarantor for individual manufacturing The company implements custom-fit laser production systems tailored to the applications and every need of the customers to 100%. On request, the systems combine innovative technologies in a unique way for high-precision manufacturing solutions. Need-based automation solutions are implemented for smooth 24/7 series production.
"The production of ultra-fine surface structures is becoming increasingly demanding," reports Simon Mohr, Laser Technology Expert at stoba Customized Machinery. "This is where conventional manufacturing technologies reach their limits, because the cutting forces acting on the component make machining difficult and even impossible for particularly sensitive geometries. This is especially true when materials are required that are considered difficult to machine."
All-in-one - Laser micro-machining for highest demands
The FocusONE simultaneous 5-axis machining station is a prime example of stoba Customized Machinery's highly productive machines, integrating all parameters in one user interface (laser, scanner, vision) and featuring in-process monitoring to reduce rework. FocusONE thus offers virtually infinite possibilities in laser micro-machining and the associated production of ultra-fine surface structures, filigree cavities, and drill holes in high-tech materials that are difficult to machine. The combination of a femtosecond laser with a 3D scanning system has, for example, been successfully used for years in series production for microdrilling fuel injection nozzles. Equipped with state-of-the-art hardware and software components, FocusONE guarantees maximum process reliability and precision at a completely new level.
"As experts in the manufacture of processing machines for laser micro-machining with short-pulse and ultrashort-pulse lasers, we guide our customers from application development to series production of components for their products. Sophisticated, custom-fit machine solutions and user-friendly software improve performance and reduce the likelihood of errors," Simon Mohr notes.
Published June 8th 2022
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