Coherent launches ExactCut precision laser machine

20 Feb 2019

To meet growing demand for processing thinner glass used in mobile electronics, and for high-spec medical devices.

Demand for thinner glass used in mobile electronic devices is increasing, which is driving the need for ultrathin and strengthened glass, sapphire, rounded contours, slots, button holes and bevels. Lasers are playing a pivotal role to bring these trends to cost effective volume production by providing distinct advantage over traditional mechanical scoring, grinding and polishing.

To address this need and other industrial applications, laser giant Coherent has this week announced the commercial launch of the first model in its ExactSeries of fine materials processing equipment.

The ExactCut micromachining system is designed to "combine intelligence, integration, and interconnectivity for precision cutting of metals, alloys, sapphire, polycrystalline diamond, and ceramics," says the company.

With the aim of significantly reducing integration and qualification time, ExactCut will be supplied with pre-programmed process parameters for the desired application.

Medical devices

It is also designed for demanding manufacturing applications, such as for high-specification medical devices, electronics, automotive, and horology. "It also delivers high flexibility for multipurpose job shops," the company adds.

ExactCut systems combine the latest generation of pulsed fiber laser sources (300 W / 3 kW pulse peak), a high stability granite motion module, and a sophisticated human interface. The intelligent and intuitive software simplifies the entry of parameter and process recipes; this is particularly valuable for short or prototype production runs and rapid changeovers.

Coherent concludes, "The ExactCut is designed for easy integration into high volume production, with a variety of interfaces for specialty tooling, rotary or linear stages, part handling robotics, and conveyor belts.

"Backed by decades of applications expertise of the combined Coherent and Rofin organizations, ExactCut systems also feature sophisticated remote diagnostics and predictive maintenance, and are supported by Coherent’s worldwide service infrastructure."