AH
Ahmed HassanOP19d ago
We recently installed a BLM GROUP fiber laser with an IPG 3kW source. We're struggling to get clean cuts on 8mm mild steel — getting dross on the bottom edge and some striations.
Current parameters:
- Speed: 1.2 m/min
- Power: 2800W
- Frequency: 2000 Hz
- Duty cycle: 100%
- Assist gas: O2 at 0.8 bar
- Focus position: -1mm
The machine supplier gave us a parameter table but the results aren't great. Has anyone dialed in good parameters for 8mm MS with a 3kW IPG source?
2 Replies
LE
Lars Eriksson#118d ago
For 8mm mild steel with O2 assist on a 3kW IPG, your speed might be a bit high. Try:
- Speed: 0.9-1.0 m/min
- Power: 3000W (full power)
- O2 pressure: 0.6-0.7 bar (lower pressure often gives cleaner cuts on thicker material)
- Focus: -2mm to -2.5mm (deeper focus for thicker material)
The key with O2 cutting on thick MS is the exothermic reaction — you need enough dwell time. Also check your nozzle condition and standoff distance (should be 0.8-1.0mm).
CW
Chen Wei#218d ago
Also worth checking: what nozzle size are you using? For 8mm with O2, you typically want a 1.5mm or 2.0mm nozzle. A 1.0mm nozzle will restrict gas flow and cause the dross issue you're describing.
Striations usually indicate the speed is too high or power too low. Try reducing speed to 0.8 m/min and see if the striations improve before changing other parameters.