Rapid laser texturing on mould surfaces

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13th June 2017

Source: DMG MORI UK

A new, 5-axis CNC machine has been introduced by DMG MORI for laser ablation of geometrically defined textures into the surface of moulds, such as those that produce plastic car fittings or electronic housings. The machining process is more environmentally friendly than conventional etching and offers a greater freedom of design, while at the same time ensuring a high level of repeatability. It is also capable of creating filigree cavities without the need to manufacture electrodes.

Called LASERTEC 75 Shape, the machine has a footprint of just eight square metres, so is well suited for installation in the tightest of production environments. Its ergonomic design and door opening of 1,310mm ensure convenient access to the machining area, which offers ample space for workpieces of diameter up to 840mm and heights to 520mm. They can weigh up to 600kg or 1,000kg, with optional tandem drive of the tilting mechanism carrying the rotary table.

Central to machine operation are a 100W pulsed fibre laser and 3D processing optics with F-Theta scanning lens. The laser is responsible for layer-by-layer removal of material and, in combination with the NC swivelling rotary table, offers contour parallel laser shaping for fast, trouble-free laser texturing, even in 3D free-form areas of a mould.

Rapid traverse speeds of 40m/min provide high dynamics for fast cycle times while stable ballscrews in the linear axes and comprehensive cooling measures ensure a high degree of accuracy. Travels are 750x650x560mm in the X, Y and Z axes.

Control is by a Siemens 840 D solutionline, which when combined with DMG MORI’s application specific LASERSOFT software and proprietary CELOS graphical user interface, allows the machine to be integrated optimally into a manufacturer’s organisation.

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