Fanuc Controls Deliver High-Speed Laser Processing

Fanuc Factory Automation America (Fanuc FA America) recently introduced the Series 30i/31i-L Model B high-speed laser controls capable of supporting advanced levels of high speed laser processing. The new Series 30i/31i-L Model B CNCs have the capacity to deliver seamless choreography between axes motion and power modulation, even in cases of extremely high speeds when processing thin-gage materials. Impressive internal laser power stabilizing characteristics deliver edge conditions on thicker materials which redefine the norm of RZ and RA (measured length of surface roughness). Truly unique in laser processing, smooth edge cross sections with superior edge finishes quantify smoothness rather than surface roughness.

Relative to other CNCs in its class, the Fanuc Series 30i/31i-L Model B laser control has update rates of 125 microseconds, arguably 40 times faster than the rate at which a single neuron can fire within the human brain. These technological features translate to superior cut quality and accuracy; which translates into premium quality parts and a realized competitive distinction.

In line with other new Fanuc CNCs offerings, the Series 30i/31i-L Model B provides up to eight MB of high-capacity, non-volatile internal memory that is available to store constant inventory nests, which need not require network access to activate and run during surplus machine availability. External interaction via ATA or Compact Flash memory cards bump up an additional 2 GB of part program storage. Added flexibility includes a USB port, where any commercially available USB storage device may also be connected to store and transfer large programs. For increased processing capability, a fast data server can also be installed in the CNC, providing up to 4 GB of flash memory and a 100-GBit Ethernet connection. A high-speed, error-immune fiber optic connection between the CNC and an integrated PC front-end allows the hard disk be used for part program storage.

The Series 30i/31i-L Model B CNC has an embedded Ethernet interface, allowing the user to integrate the CNC control system into a company network for data collection or for high-speed part program transfers. Links can be set up via the Internet, making remote diagnosis, maintenance and online training possible. Because the integrated Ethernet interface does not use a public operating system, it is practically "hacker-free" and immune to viruses, providing a safe and worry-free connection to business networks. Minimal training and programming are needed with the new Series 30i/31i-L Model B CNCs for operators that already use Fanuc controls. Upward compatibility is guaranteed and older part programs will run smoothly on the new controls.

The Series 30i/31i-L Model B CNCs for laser cutting can be combined with rugged, energy efficient, high-performance servo drive systems that are specifically designed to deliver the industry's leading reliability and performance-even in dusty, high-vibration environments of the most challenging fabricating shops. Laser systems with Fanuc technology benefit from Fanuc's world renowned reliability and energy efficiency; delivering increased productivity.

The laser control series has dual energy savings settings which interpret short term and long term beam off times and adjust the laser current and energy consumption accordingly, once cutting resumes, the laser quickly engages full production. Power save features result in reduced energy costs without a loss in part production and part quality.