Hi,
I’m trying to decide between using a typical generic X-Y plasma table and an Arc Droid with my 1200W GWieke fiber laser. I don’t think I’ll have a problem fabricating a mount for the laser head, but the piercing motion is a bit different than plasma.
On a generic X-Y Table, I can add custom g-code for ever pierce move, is that possible with the Arc Droid? Can I build my own post-processor for it? I looked around the forum and saw a few successful laser users, but no talk about how the gcode was modified.
@kingjamez given the weight of the laser head/gun and attached cooling/fiber connections, a traditional XY gantry table is better suited. While the ArcDroid works, I noticed the extra weight (when compared to a plasma torch) stresses the ArcDroid system. As far as your question on ever pierce and g-code editing to achieve the same, I have not found that to be necessary. The kerf from the laser is so fine, not to mention you will only effectively be able to cut 1/4” and less, I’ve found that a brief 1/2 second pierce delay is all I need. For cuts any thicker than 1/4” you’ll run into dross issues due to the thin kerf. I run a 2000w machine. I’ve found plasma to be so much more efficient if you don’t have any cuts finer than 5mm apart. . Good Luck!
Hi Bob,
Really appreciate the well thought out response. I talked with an engineer from Gwieke and he warned of damage to the lens if I didn’t do a pierce move. He was concerned about the initial reflection coming back. I don’t have any experience here, so was just trying to take advice.
I agree that an XY table would probably be better, I was hopeful that arc droid would work so I could save some space in my cramped shop. Maybe I need to rethink that.
My goal is to cut 1mm and 2mm titanium sheet metal for my daughter’s arts and crafts business. The fine kerf is what steered me toward the laser as speed really isn’t my goal.
I hadn’t considered the additional weight problem. That probably does kill the advantages.
I saw another video saying that we need to be careful with reflective metals when piercing else there is risk for damaging the optics. I think for no matter what movement method, we should be careful about this.
All great points. Thanks for the tips and video.
