Reliable collection and separation of hazardous laser emissions

Laser cutting is a technology which uses high powered laser beam for the thermal cutting of various metals in different thicknesses and forms such as sheet or tubes so they can be precisely cut leaving an edge with a high-quality surface finish. The laser beam hits the workpiece, and the material heats up to the extent that it melts or vaporizes.

Over recent years laser cutting technology has advanced to enable the cutting of thicker metals such as structural steel and not only mild steel and stainless steel but also non-ferrous metals including copper, brass and aluminium. Laser technology has become a standard industrial process. The achieved increase in precision and productivity is also associated with increased emissions. During the machining process, the laser cutting tables (CO² and fibre) generate dust, smoke, and gases, which are breathing hazards for machine operators and can lead to, e.g., respiratory illnesses. Optimum extraction is needed to prevent the inhalation of toxic airborne particles, particularly the finest particles that can settle deep into lung tissues.

Dust collector systems are most commonly used to capture and separate laser emissions directly at the source. Emissions generated during the process are captured through the laser cutting table, pulled downwards and directed through the ductwork into the dust collector, where emissions are then filtered. The particles directed into the dust collector are captured in the filter elements and separated into a dust container through a pulse cleaning process.

When selecting a dust extraction system for a laser table we recommend that you consult an expert to ensure you are getting the correct, reliable and efficient extraction solution for your application as there are many critical factors that must be considered such as, table dimensions, laser output power, type of laser beam, the auxiliary gas, the material to be cut and the automated material handling system are some. This will help determine the size of the extraction unit needed to handle the required extraction air volume from the specific process.