The main reasons for the deformation of laser cutting machines when cutting parts involve many factors such as thermal effects, material stress, and process parameter settings. The following is a detailed analysis and solution:

1. Deformation caused by thermal effects

Local high temperature

The high temperature during laser cutting will cause the material to heat up rapidly locally, and after cooling, internal stress will be generated due to thermal expansion and contraction, resulting in deformation (especially thin plate parts).

Solution: Reduce cutting power or increase cutting speed to reduce heat input. Use pulsed laser mode to disperse heat.

Uneven cooling

Irrational cutting path design may cause uneven heating of the material and inconsistent contraction during cooling.

Solution:Optimize the cutting path, use symmetrical or alternating cutting sequence, and balance the heat distribution.

2. Material factors

Residual stress

Internal stress remaining in the material during rolling, processing or heat treatment, which is released after cutting and causes deformation.

Solution:Anneal the material before cutting to eliminate residual stress.

Select high-quality materials with less stress.

Material properties

Materials with poor thermal conductivity or high thermal expansion coefficient (such as stainless steel, aluminum alloy) are more prone to deformation.

Solution:

Adjust process parameters for different materials (such as stainless steel needs to reduce power and increase speed).

3. Improper process parameters

Laser power and speed do not match

Too high power or too slow speed will cause overheating; insufficient power requires multiple cuttings, increasing thermal impact.

Solution:

Determine the best power, speed and focal length combination through process tests.

Auxiliary gas problem

Insufficient gas pressure or improper type (such as not using nitrogen when cutting stainless steel) will cause slag residue and local overheating.

Solution:

Select the right gas (oxygen, nitrogen, air) according to the material and adjust the pressure.

Summary: Key measures to reduce deformation

1.Optimize process parameters: adjust power, speed, and gas according to the material.

2.Pre-treat the material: anneal or choose low-stress plates.

3.Improve clamping and support: ensure uniform force.

4.Rationally design the path: disperse heat input to avoid concentrated heating.

5.Equipment maintenance: ensure beam quality and positioning accuracy.

Through systematic analysis and targeted adjustments, the deformation problem in laser cutting can be significantly reduced.