Coherent will present the METABEAM 1000 at the Laser World of Photonics exhibition, a turnkey, laser-based machining tool that enables cost effective cutting of sheet metal including stainless steel, mild steel, aluminum and brass. Using a 1000W, completely sealed CO2 laser (Coherent Diamond E-1000), the METABEAM tool will offer substantially lower acquisition and operational costs when compared to legacy systems based on fast flow CO2 lasers. The METABEAM 1000 also delivers several advantages over cutting systems that utilize fiber lasers. Specifically, the long wave infrared CO2 laser output enables the system to work a wide range of metals, like fiber lasers, but also process organic materials such as wood and plastic.  "In general, our customers are looking for high performance and low cost of ownership but with the flexibility to meet the changing material demands in their facilities," said Stephen Lee of Coherent. He added, "Where they need to focus on specific metals, a kW fiber based METABEAM 1000, also slated for release later this year, would be the best answer.”

The METABEAM 1000 will be available with either a 1220 mm x 1220 mm (4? x 4?) or 1220 mm x 2440 mm (4? x 8?) cutting table, and will offer a cutting accuracy of ±25 ?m (0.001") over its entire range. The system utilizes a capacitive height sensor to maintain constant spacing between the cutting nozzle and metal surface, and comes standard with auto focus to deliver consistent clean cuts. Additionally, the system has two independent, high pressure regulators to rapidly switch between assist gasses, thus enabling cutting of a variety of materials with minimal setup time. Various automation enhancement tools, such as pallet shuttles, are available to facilitate integration into a production environment and increase productivity.

The METABEAM 1000 will offer cost effective processing of a wide range of metals and other materials for job shops, metal service centers and sheet metal fabrication shops. Its ease of use and automation capabilities will also make it attractive for in-house sheet metal cutting for manufacturers in a broad range of industries including white goods (appliances), automobiles, aerospace and contract manufacturing.

For more information, visit http://www.Coherent.com/