Since 2016, Quick Laser, the developer of high-performance laser cutting machines, and Beckhoff, the PC-based control technology specialist, have been working together to optimise the performance of high-end laser cutting machines. Many discoveries have been made through the use of TwinCAT (The Windows Control and Automation Technology) software, which is being used as an open computerised numerical control (CNC) system that will, in theory, help improve the efficiency of these machines. This method means that the process of these high-performance laser machinery, which start slowly, pre-lasering and then progressively cut deeper, could be more effectively controlled. This partnership has discovered several interesting things so far.

Beckhoff explains that the TwinCAT Component Object Model (TcCOM) concept, helps to refine the operation and performance of the modules that are within the machinery driver. This COM-based model, from Microsoft Windows, aids the co-operation between software components, to increase efficiency. Another important factor they say, is the use of powerful servo drive technology like the AX5000 Servo Drive from Beckhoff which uses the velocity observer and TwinCAT CNC acceleration pre-control to enhance laser cutting machine performance. The exchange of real-time data with the laser via the support of the EL6692 Ethernet for CAT (EtherCAT) bridge terminal has also proven to enhance laser cutting performance.

The TwinCAT CNC method for laser cutting machines also offers the remarkable benefit of providing the ability to reduce laser beam intensity. TwinCAT CNC can also prevent excessive build-up of laser beam energy through the use of a corner and edge function. This reduces unwanted laser burning when cutting items at an acute angle. The TwinCAT CNC also offers a spline curve function that helps to enhance the path of the laser to optimise the cutting process.

With all of these developments and discoveries and more to come for the laser cutting industry, it seems this partnership between Quick Laser and Beckhoff is proving to be quite fruitful. This continued co-operation between Beckhoff and Quick Laser will hopefully provide future concepts for laser cutting performance enhancement.