Laser Highlights
The number of different laser applications is surprising, yet it continues to grow. Here's a look at a few.
When I was in college, excited by the prospect of combining a growing technology with my writing interests, I took a number of laser technology classes. I also worked an internship as a technical writer for a manufacturer of laser micrometers. I learned a lot about the technical functionality of lasers and was exposed to some of the latest ideas for putting that functionality to work. Even today, though, I continue to be amazed by the number of applications for lasers in manufacturing.
Companies such as Blum LMT and General Inspection offer products for laser measurement for faster and more accurate gaging of diameters, lengths, tapers, straightness, concentricity and threads. These devices virtually eliminate operator error in these applications for much less variability from part to part.
Other laser applications include cutting, drilling, welding, marking, surface treatment and even micromachining. DMG America offers its Lasertec line for drilling and precision 2D and 3D cutting. Electrox has marking systems, including the Cobra line, that utilize a range of technologies to address a number of marking applications. The high machining accuracy and throughput advantages of lasers also lend themselves nicely to precision, industrial micromachining work (read more here).
New applications for lasers are being implemented regularly, and many companies are up for the challenge. To locate suppliers to meet your laser needs, visit the Supplier Directory at productionmachining.com.
Related Content
-
Addressing Machining’s Necessary Evil
Many view quality control as such, but integrating new measurement technologies and approaches can ultimately minimize QC’s impact on throughput and a company’s bottom line.
-
Streamlining Part Measurement, Data Collection Processes
When collecting measurement data automatically with a wireless data collection system, manual errors can be eliminated ensuring data accuracy and traceability.
-
The Value of CMM Controller Retrofits
In this case, new controllers for two coordinate measuring machines — one 26 years old — with new programming software offers the possibility to enable multisensor inspection of critical, turned aerospace components.
