Laser Tube Cutting Machines: 3D vs Fibre Technology
In modern tube cutting, we distinguish between two main laser processing technologies: 3D laser tube cutting and fibre laser tube cutting. Both have their advantages and specific areas of application, and choosing the right technology mainly depends on the type of product, material, and production volume.
At Kovinc, we use the most technologically advanced solutions in this field. In the past, we used the Lasertube LT8 tube laser for 3D laser tube cutting, while today we perform tube cutting using modern fibre technology, specifically with the Lasertube LT8.20 and Lasertube LT5 machines.
In the following sections, we will present both processes in a clear and simple way, explain their key differences, and outline when and why we use each technology.
3D laser tube cutting
3D laser tube cutting, which we used until 2023 with the Lasertube LT8 machine, represents a highly efficient solution for cutting tubes and profiles with more demanding shapes. This technology enables fast, precise, and repeatable production of even more complex parts.
The laser enables cutting of round tubes up to a diameter of Ø 220 mm and square tubes with dimensions up to 200 × 200 mm, with a maximum material weight of 30 kg/m. Cutting can be performed using oxygen or nitrogen, and a key feature of this system is the ability to perform true 3D cutting.
3D cutting means that tubes can also be cut at any angle up to 45°, similar to sawing or milling. This allows for the production of angled cuts, complex joints, and precise weld preparations. In practice, 3D laser technology combines multiple processes into one, as it replaces band sawing, drilling, and partially milling or edge beveling.
Advantages of 3D laser tube cutting:
- multiple processing operations in a single process,
- high precision and repeatability,
- shorter production time and lower overall costs,
- automated loading and unloading of tubes.
Fibre laser tube cutting
Fibre laser tube cutting currently represents the state of the art in laser tube cutting technology. The term “fibre” refers to the source and transmission of laser energy, enabling extremely efficient, fast, and precise material processing. This cutting method is particularly suitable for high-volume production and is widely used in the automotive, industrial, and furniture industries.
The fibre lasers Lasertube LT5 and Lasertube LT8.20 enable cutting of tubes with dimensions up to 100 × 100 mm or round tubes up to Ø 120 mm, while ensuring high cutting quality even in large production runs. Both machines operate in 2D cutting mode, meaning that the cutting head is not movable – the cut is always perpendicular to the tube axis and directed towards its centre. This design is what enables exceptional process speed and stability.
A major advantage of fibre technology is its versatility in terms of materials. In addition to iron, it allows highly efficient cutting of steel, aluminium, copper, brass, as well as painted and surface-treated metals.
The lasers cut using nitrogen, which means that the cut edges are clean, without oxide residues that are typical of oxygen and CO₂ cutting technologies. This reduces the need for additional finishing and improves the final appearance of the product.
In addition, both machines are equipped with advanced automation and a storage system capable of holding up to 4 tonnes of tubes. The system automatically prepares material during cutting, significantly reducing production time and increasing efficiency. Shorter production times also mean lower energy consumption and consequently a lower cost per part, which is crucial in serial production.
Advantages of fibre laser tube cutting:
- exceptional precision and consistent product quality,
- lower costs due to an optimised process,
- very high production speed,
- an ideal solution for high-volume projects (e.g. automotive, industrial, or furniture industries),
- replaces several conventional processes such as milling, drilling, and additional mechanical finishing.
If you are considering laser tube cutting or are looking for a reliable partner for serial or custom production, we invite you to contact us.