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TechStories made by stoba: Laser micromachining with ultrashort pulse lasers is the key to high-precision manufacturing technology
The requirements in the manufacturing industry, such as in the automotive, medical, aerospace and tool and mold making sectors, are constantly increasing. Increasing quantities combined with high precision results demand flexible and precise machining technologies for the processing of workpieces.
Most efficient ablation with optimum energy density.
Ultra-short pulse lasers have the potential to replace conventional manufacturing processes in many areas. They enable new applications that were previously unthinkable. Ultra-short pulse lasers are lasers with a pulse duration in the pico- to femtosecond range. The main feature of these light pulses is their high peak intensity, which can be achieved with very low output power due to the strong temporal compression. This enables high-precision material removal as well as the processing of temperature-sensitive materials without thermal damage in the edge zones. This also makes USP lasers ideal for processing sensitive and transparent materials.
High-precision laser processing and automation
The laser systems from stoba Customized Machinery based on USP lasers enable metal workpieces to be processed with pinpoint accuracy down to the micrometre range. The range of applications is impressive, from laser ablation such as micro-drilling and structuring to fine cutting.
stoba Customized Machinery sees itself as a developer of technological visions and a guarantor of quality for individual production. The company creates customized laser production systems that are 100% tailored to the customer’s applications and requirements. The systems combine innovative technologies for high-precision manufacturing solutions in a unique way. Needs-based automation solutions are implemented for smooth 24/7 series production. “The production of the finest surface structures is becoming increasingly demanding,” reports Simon Mohr, Laser Technology Expert at stoba Customized Machinery. “This is where conventional manufacturing technologies reach their limits, as the cutting forces acting on the component make machining more difficult and even impossible with particularly sensitive geometries. This is particularly true when materials are required that are considered difficult to machine.”
All-in-one – laser micromachining for the highest demands
The FocusONE simultaneous 5-axis machining station is a prime example of highly productive machines from stoba Customized Machinery, which integrates all parameters in one user interface (laser, scanner, vision) and features in-process monitoring to reduce reworking. The FocusONE therefore offers almost infinite possibilities for laser micromachining and the associated production of the finest surface structures, filigree cavities and drill holes in high-tech materials that are difficult to machine. The combination of a femtosecond laser and 3D scanning system has been used successfully for years in series production for the micro-drilling of fuel injection nozzles, for example. Equipped with state-of-the-art hardware and software components, the FocusONE guarantees maximum process reliability and precision at a completely new level. “As experts in the manufacture of processing machines for laser micromachining with short-pulse and ultrashort-pulse lasers, we support our customers from application development through to series production of components for their products. Well thought-out, tailor-made machine solutions and user-friendly software enable performance increases and reduce the probability of errors,” says Simon Mohr.