Internal high-pressure automotive parts-product examples
Internal high pressure pipe laser cutting-case introduction
Internal high-pressure pipes are widely used in the automotive industry. Due to their irregular shapes, these pipes cannot be cut using standard laser cutting machines. Furthermore, some require post-cut welding, resulting in a continuous transition bevel. We offer three solutions:
1. Robotic 3D laser cutting machine + 7-axis positioner (capable of 7-axis simultaneous cutting): This offers low investment, rapid results, and convenient adjustments, making it suitable for customers cutting a wide variety of medium-volume pipes.
2. 3D 5-axis laser cutting machine + positioner (capable of 6-axis simultaneous cutting): This offers high precision (repeatability ±0.05mm) and speed, but the equipment cost is high, making it suitable for customers with very demanding pipe cutting requirements.
3. Customized pipe cutting machine: We can develop custom machines and supporting fixtures based on your pipe product. Each design is tailored to your specific needs, offering fast cutting speeds and high precision. This is suitable for customers with high pipe cutting volumes and demanding requirements.
Specification Comparison
| Specification | Standard CO₂ Laser (Pipe Cutting) | Fiber Laser (Internal High-Pressure Pipe Cutting) |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum pipe wall thickness (carbon steel) | 12 mm | 25 mm |
| Cutting speed (6 mm wall, 100 mm diameter) | 1.2 m/min | 3.5 m/min |
| Assist gas pressure (internal delivery) | 8–12 bar | 20–30 bar |
| Kerf width (6 mm wall) | 0.30–0.45 mm | 0.18–0.28 mm |
| Beam delivery fiber length | N/A (mirror-based) | 15–30 m |
| Electrical efficiency | 8–12% | 30–40% |
| System cost (20 kW class) | $180,000–$250,000 | $280,000–$400,000 |
| Maintenance interval (operating hours) | 2,000–3,000 hours | 10,000–15,000 hours |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum pipe diameter and wall thickness your internal high pressure laser cutting system can handle?
Our system can process pipes with an outer diameter ranging from 20 mm to 219 mm and wall thicknesses up to 12.7 mm, accommodating standard and heavy-wall industrial tubing.
What is the typical cutting tolerance achieved on internal high pressure pipe cuts?
We achieve a positioning accuracy of ±0.03 mm and a repeatability of ±0.02 mm, ensuring consistent, burr-free cuts even at high production volumes.
How does the system maintain cut quality under high internal gas pressure during the cutting process?
The system operates with an integrated gas pressure regulation up to 25 bar, using a specialized nozzle design that maintains a stable kerf width of 0.15 mm to 0.25 mm, preventing dross formation on internal surfaces.
What is the maximum cutting speed for a standard 4-inch schedule 40 stainless steel pipe?
For a 4-inch (114.3 mm OD) schedule 40 stainless steel pipe with a 6.02 mm wall thickness, the maximum cutting speed is 3.2 meters per minute, delivering a clean cut with a surface roughness of Ra ≤ 3.2 µm.
What is the typical cost per cut for a 6-meter length of carbon steel pipe using this method?
For a 6-meter length of 6-inch (168.3 mm OD) carbon steel pipe with a 7.11 mm wall thickness, the average cost per cut is approximately $0.85, including consumables and laser energy, based on a 10,000-part production run.
What are the minimum and maximum pipe lengths your system can process without additional fixturing?
The standard system can handle pipe lengths from 1.5 meters to 12 meters without additional fixturing, with an optional extension module supporting lengths up to 18 meters for oversized industrial applications.
