Laser Cutting System - Cincinnati Incorporated

Laser Cutting System
B-22011

The CL-7A laser provides enhanced
productivity, performance, accuracy and reliability.
The CINCINNATI CL-7A Laser Cutting System
incorporates the latest in resonator technology, motion
control systems, electronics, beam delivery, fiber
optics communications and software technology to
greatly enhance machine productivity, performance
and accuracy. This machine outperforms punch presses
and conventional lasers when cutting a wide range of
materials and thicknesses.
Customers who own a CL-7A Laser Cutting
System experience the following tangible benefits:
• Enhanced Productivity
• Accuracy and Part Quality
• Machine Durability and Reliability
• Unmatched Support Services
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Enhanced productivity.
Powerful, Simple, Accurate Controls
The conveniently located, industrial PC with 15” color touchscreen
display, Windows 2000 ® , full-sized keyboard and custom control
panel provides the operator with a user-friendly Human Machine
Interface (HMI). Complete part programs are quickly processed
and optimized with cutting parameters from the PC. High-speed
DSP motion controllers communicate with encoders and servo
amplifiers through a high-speed fiber optic bus for noise-free data
transfer. The unique combination of proven technologies increases
processing speeds to improve productivity.
Fast Setup
The CL-7A is an ideal job shop laser, because it can productively
cut a wide variety of materials, including: Mild Steel, Stainless
Steel, Aluminum, Bronze, Wood, Acrylic, Rubber, Titanium and
Galvanized. Most setups take only a few seconds. Easy access
lens drawers and self-centering nozzle tips reduce the time
required for the most complicated setups to only seconds.

The CL-7A is a robust machine, engineered for a demanding operating environment where productivity is paramount.
A choice of resonators maximizes cutting performance for the application so accurate parts are processed quickly.
The CL-7A’s exceptional stiffness, fabricated gantry and motion control system are designed for optimum productivity.
Innovative, high-quality features abound in the CL-7A. The Windows 2000 operating system, Digital Signal Processor (DSP)
motion controller, fiber optic bus, parameter library and dual pallet design are uniquely integrated for optimum part processing.
All of these innovations, and more, combine to provide you with more parts per hour, every single day.
CINCINNATI Programming and
Nesting Software
This Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software takes 2D
Computer Aided Design (CAD) files in DXF or IGES format and
converts them into the machine code necessary to run the
CINCINNATI laser. The software runs in a Windows ® environment
offline and on the machine. The active nesting capabilities can
improve material utilization by 30% over grid nesting.
The nesting program optimizes the tool path utilizing the
exclusive CINCINNATI Feature Avoidance Software allowing for
head down operation. By keeping the laser head in the down
position when moving from feature to feature, part and nest cut
times will be significantly reduced.
Periodic software upgrades ensure that the latest cutting
techniques are available to increase part quality and productivity.
Productive Dual Pallets
Dual pallet cutting tables ensure greater productivity by
permitting continuous laser processing. Machine run time can
be optimized when part unloading and raw material loading
are performed simultaneously with cutting. This feature provides
more parts per hour, every single day of operation.
The straight forward rail guided pallet system eliminates the
potential of downtime common on more complicated designs.
The CL-7A is manufactured in a number of table sizes to
be highly productive in a wide variety of applications.
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Accuracy and part quality.
Power
(Watts)
DPC Relationship
Feedrate (IPM)
Dynamic Power Control (DPC )
To ensure consistent kerf width and edge condition, the
CL-7A employs a unique feature, Dynamic Power Control
(DPC). DPC automatically and continuously adjusts laser
power to the machine's feed rate which is critical in
maintaining a consistent cutting process. DPC eliminates
the need for conventional power control, which typically
requires involved CNC programming techniques. Instead,
cutting parameters stored in the control's material library
are used by the DPC to maintain the power/feed rate
relationship suitable for the particular material being cut.

The CL-7A sets a new standard for positioning accuracy and beam quality. An advanced motion
control system, and DSP technology all combine to ensure accurate cutting head positioning.
In addition to position accuracy, the CL-7A has Dynamic Power Control (DPC) which controls kerf
width so that the parts are highly accurate.
Low beam divergence and Dynamic Power Control enable an extremely consistent cutting process across an
entire sheet of material. Every part cut on a CL-7A has a high quality edge with minimal heat affected zone.
Advanced Resonator Technology
The unique Diffusion Cooled Resonator design produces
a laser beam with unequaled mode quality, beam stability
and a full angle divergence of less than one milliradian.
Exceptional mode quality and small divergence combine
to create a beam that can be focused to a smaller, hotter
spot than conventional resonators. This concentrated
energy results in a cut with superior edge condition and
a smaller heat affected zone.
With the Diffusion Cooled Resonator, many materials including
stainless steel, can be cut with lower nitrogen assist gas
pressure. Lower assist gas pressure also allows plastic coated
material to be cut more efficiently with less effect on the
material coating.
Preloaded Ball Screws and Linear Bearings
Preloaded ball screws and linear bearings accurately drive
the gantry and cutting head. The ball screws and linear bearings
are located above the cutting area, and they are further
protected from contaminates with bellows and covers.
Digital Drive System
The positioning accuracy of the CL-7A is ±.001" over the
entire cutting area. The fiber-optically linked brushless AC
servomotors precisely drive the CL-7A laser head. Preloaded
ball screws and guide bearings combined with a rigid
aluminum gantry assure accurate positioning.
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Machine durability and reliability.
Beam Delivery System
The beam delivery system is enclosed in a constant volume,
balanced chamber with two bellows each for X and Y
motion. One bellows contracts while the other expands
during cutting head travel to maintain a constant internal
volume. The beam delivery system bellows is purged with
dry, filtered, compressed air. This positive pressure beam
purge assures a dry, clean environment for beam delivery,
which prolongs mirror life in the demanding environment
of many fabricating shops, and ensures stable power at the
workpiece. The resonator and beam delivery systems are
mounted on the main frame, providing beam delivery stability,
compactness of design and no special foundation requirements.

The solid heavy-duty construction of the CL-7A Laser Cutting System provides an excellent machine foundation for the resonator,
beam delivery system, machine drive and motion controls. The frame is fabricated from thick steel plate with exceptional torsional
stiffness to provide many years of consistent, accurate production.
The CL-7A advanced design incorporates far fewer parts in the resonator, drive and control systems. Simplification of the power supply
improves resonator reliability and maintainability. Fewer optics in the resonator and beam delivery system results in high reliability and
lower maintenance. A reliable fiber optic bus replaces multiple wiring harnesses thus reducing susceptibility to electrical noise and
improving reliability.
Diffusion Cooled Resonator
This patented resonator design consisting of front and
rear metal mirrors and two parallel RF electrodes,
generates the beam in an extremely tight vacuum chamber.
Excitation of the laser gas takes place in the gap
between these electrodes, which are water cooled to
dissipate the heat generated in the discharge. The
electrodes and resonator optics are mounted at 45˚ to
the horizontal to produce a linearly polarized beam,
minimizing additional optics. The RF generator is directly
coupled to the electrodes, thereby achieving delivery of
the high energy without using any cables. The simplicity
and elegance of this design yield high reliability.
Rugged, Rigid Frame For
Precision Machinery
Cincinnati Incorporated pioneered all steel plate construction
for precision machinery over 75 years ago. The frame is
fabricated from 3 /4" to 1 1 /2" steel plate. It is stress-relieved
before machining to ensure that critical dimensions remain
stable. The mass of the frame effectively dampens vibrations
from other equipment, a requirement for optical stability. The
load frame is a separate component which allows material
handling to occur without affecting the cutting process.
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Motion System
Accuracy (over entire cutting area)
Absolute positioning per axis: ................±0.001" (±0.025mm)
Repeatability per axis: ..............................0.001" (0.025mm)
Laser Type
Diffusion cooled C0 2 resonator or fast axial flow (Class IV laser product)
CNC Control
Pentium ® -based PC; Windows 2000 ® operating system; network interface, digital signal processor motion controller.
Machine Dimensions
A
Difussion
Cooled
A
Fast Axial
Flow
B
C
D
Weight
48" X 96"
(1,219 X 2,438mm)
89"
(2,259mm)
101"
(2,565mm)
34.5"
(876mm)
335”
(8,509mm)
163"
(4,140mm)
26,300 lbs.
Table Size
60" x 120"
(1,524 x 3,048mm)
89"
(2,259mm)
101"
(2,565mm)
34.5"
(876mm)
381”
(9,677mm)
175"
(4,445mm)
31,300 lbs.
Windows ® and Windows 2000 ® are registered trademarks of the Microsoft Corporation.
Pentium ® is a registered trademark of Intel Corporation.
Specifications
72" x 144"
(1,829 x 3,658mm)
89"
(2,259mm)
101"
(2,565mm)
34.5"
(876mm)
472”
(11,989mm)
187"
(4,750mm)
35,800 lbs.

A
D
Standard Features
• Breakaway Non-contact Head
with Magnetic Coupling
• Touchscreen PC Control
• Compressed Air/Dryer Filter
• Custom Macros
• Fast Axial Flow or
Diffusion Cooled Resonator
• Dynamic Power Control (DPC )
• Inch/Metric Programming
• Ethernet Network Card
Due to a continuing product development program, engineering data and dimensions are subject to change without notice.
Certified foundation plans will be furnished for each installation.
C
B
• Precision Ball Screw Drive System
• Programmable High Pressure Assist
Gas (400 PSI Maximum)
• Quick-Adjust Material Clamps
• Remote Operator Station
• Replaceable Material Support Grids
• Safety Lights
• Safety Mats
• Scrap Removal System
• Fume Collection Plenum
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Opposite Hand Configuration
Lower Pallet Special Function (LPSF)
Options
Selecting a “mirror image” configuration enables one operator to control two machines
from a single location. This increases productivity. In other cases, the opposite hand layout
allows the laser to be placed in an area that would be unsuitable for the standard machine.
Commonly called “bar cutting” or “square tube cutting,” this
allows the cutting of parts on the lower pallet. These parts can be
up to 7" (178mm) high and 24" (610mm) wide. LPSF includes special
operating software and a Plexiglas reflection shield for the
gantry. LPSF inhibits motion of the pallets, since large boxes would
interfere with pallet motion.
Fume Blower
A high-volume blower with self-contained motor
drive efficiently exhausts fumes from the entire
cutting area of the laser.

Rapid Pierce
Rapid pierce significantly reduces the amount of time it takes to
pierce through 3 ⁄16" (4.8mm) or thicker materials. For parts or nests
that require numerous pieces, the overall processing time is greatly
reduced. An automatic oil mist and air blow-off are included.
Tactile Foot
The tactile foot holds the material
flat on the cutting table. It is
especially useful when processing
very thin materials. Nonmetallic
materials such as wood,
plastic and acrylic can also be
processed with this head.
Optical Probe
This locates sheets on the
cutting pallet, and can be used
to locate edges or to identify sheet
position from two pre-punched
holes. Once the optical probe
locates these holes, it changes the
orientation of the laser coordinate
system to within ±0.005" to
accurately cut the programmed
parts out of the sheet.
Auto-Focus Head
The auto-focus head with one
5” and 7.5” lens and drawer,
reduces set-up time by controlling
the focus adjustment. The
focus is automated to change
focus based on material
requirements in the paremeter
libriary. In additon, the focus
can be progammed to compensate
for beam length changes.
Diode
Alignment Laser
Assists in positioning
the cutting beam in the
proper starting location.
This option also provides confirmation
of shutter closure.
Automatic
Lubrication System
Grease is automatically pumped to the ball screws and
linear bearings, reducing maintenance time and assuring
the proper lubrication of critical components.
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Ball Transfer Load Station
Sheet or plate can be easily rolled on or off the pallet grid with
ball transfers to speed material handling in the load/unload area.
Pneumatically operated ball transfers are mounted on pipe stands,
allowing them to pass through the pallet grid. They are electrically
interlocked to prevent improper or unsafe motion.
Modular Material Handling System
The Modular Material Handling System (MMHS) reduces
labor and increases productivity by automatically loading
and unloading the CL-7A. The basic functions of transporting,
separating, and storing both raw materials and cut
parts are performed by the MMHS. Unattended operation
can be achieved using a variety of layouts. There are four
(4) standard systems and limited custom layouts available
to meet your specific
needs. Due to
its modularity,
additional components
and lasers
can be added to
the system. The
MMHS is able to
grow with your
business.
Fast-Axial Flow Resonator
This resonator with higher power cuts thicker materials for
improved versatility. The proven fast-axial flow resonator uses
advanced turbine blower technology for reliability and low laser
gas consumption.
The RF power supply is compact and dependable, especially when
compared to vacuum tube designs.
Helical RF antennae excite the laser gas effectively; therefore, the
resonator can produce more power with fewer internal optics.
Fewer internal optics means lower operating and maintenance
costs as well as higher reliability.
The fast-axial flow features electronic shutter with trigger-discharge
electrodes. This improves the pulsing characteristics of the
RF resonator. The sharper pulses produce smoother cut edges and
reduce the heat-affected zone bordering the cut. Fine cutting
technology using enhanced pulsing allow intricate features to be
accurately cut.

Operator Training
CINCINNATI laser Operator Training Program at our facility helps
ensure each customer achieves maximum productivity from
their investment.
Training programs are five days long. They include classroom and
hands-on instruction for the proper and safe operation of a
CINCINNATI laser. Instruction includes:
• Introduction to the CINCINNATI laser system
• Fundamentals of Laser Operation
• Start-Up and Shutdown Procedures
• Operation of Machine Controls
• Programming and Machine Operation
• Hands-On Operation
• Maintenance
• Safety
Advanced Application Training
CINCINNATI provides on-site advanced application training after
installation of the laser. Customers understand even
better the capabilities of the CL-7A, its ease of programming
and its operating features. Other training is available, including
ongoing applications assistance and software classes.
Support Services
Comprehensive Service
CINCINNATI provides single-source responsibility for
installation, service and parts, to ensure optimum performance and
trouble-free operation. An extensive network of factory-service representatives
are located throughout North America. A service technician
is provided to perform the first planned maintenance.
CL-7A Maintenance Training
CINCINNATI offers maintenance training using classroom instruction
and hands-on instruction. The Resonator Maintenance training covers
planned maintenance. The Frame Maintenance topics include
computer interfacing, software updating and reloading, component
function and touble shooting.
Fast Replacement Parts
An extensive inventory of replacement parts is stocked, ensuring
fast response. In-stock replacement parts are shipped within hours
of your call, reducing downtime.
The Parts Department is available weekdays from 8:00 A.M. until
8:00 P.M. Eastern Time. Our rapid-response program enables customers
to contact CINCINNATI after hours and on weekends for placing
emergency orders or for obtaining technical or service assistance.
Safety
Every laser designed by CINCINNATI meets all applicable requirements
of Federal Regulation 21CFR, Subpart J, as a Class IV laser product, at the
date of manufacture, and applicable sections of American National
Standards Institute Z136.1 for the safe use of lasers.
Hazards inside the laser enclosure are guarded against unauthorized
access. Clearly visible laser signs and symbols warn personnel in the
area that a laser beam may exist within protected enclosures.
Interlocks, safety mats and redundant deactivation systems guard
against accidental access to the beam. An
optional high-volume blower provides fume
removal over the entire cutting area.
A comprehensive operator’s manual
provides instructions for safe operation.
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Cincinnati Incorporated headquarters includes manufacturing facilities, offices and a Technical Center.
A technologically advanced manufacturer of
metalworking machinery, Cincinnati Incorporated
places its reputation for quality and productivity
behind every product.
Cincinnati Incorporated maintains a modern
industrial facility where product development,
manufacturing, sales and support functions combine
to assure complete customer service and
satisfaction.
An experienced, competent staff of engineers
conducts research and development in new areas
of metalworking technology, as well as ongoing
improvement programs for current products.
CAD/CAM machine design contributes to low-cost
customization and shorter deliveries.
Customers may visit the Customer Productivity
Center to watch parts being cut and discuss
unique applications with Product Specialists to
verify production efficiency and savings.
©2005 CINCINNATI INCORPORATED
Like all CINCINNATI products, the CL-7A
Laser Cutting System offers exceptional value.
To learn more, call your CINCINNATI representative
or phone us direct.
The Customer Productivity Center demonstrates
today’s latest shearing, forming, stamping
and laser cutting technologies.
Box 11111, Cincinnati, Ohio 45211
Phone: (513) 367-7100
FAX: (513) 367-7552
E-Mail info@e-ci.com
Web Site: www.e-ci.com
Printed in U.S.A. 3M 1/05 API