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Mazak Optonics 6,000-W Laser-Cutting System

Aug. 11, 2011
Flexible, rugged workhorse cuts thick steel, stainless
STX Mark III has automated nozzle spatter removal, a three-station nozzle changer, and focal point measurement and adjustment capability.

Laser-cutting system supplier Mazak Optonics Corp. has increased the cutting power for its SuperTurbo-X Mark III 2D design to 6,000 Watts, meaning the system is capable of processing thicker mild steel and stainless materials. The STX Mark III system is described as a “flexible, rugged workhorse” that offers significant technical advantages and standard features for various material types and thicknesses.

Mazak Optonics is a business unit machine tool giant Yamazaki Mazak Corp. that offers 50 models of laser cutting systems. The new system is built on Mazak’s hybrid platform, with a constant-beam length construction that ensures uniform cutting across the machine table.

The STX Mark III also uses several advanced features found in Mazak’s high-end Hyper Series machines, including intelligent setup functions for automated nozzle spatter removal, a three-station nozzle changer as well as focal point measurement and adjustment capability. These functions are part of the Mazak Opti-Pod, which helps to minimize system setup time and extend unattended operating periods, while maintaining optimal machining conditions.

The new system also incorporates a servo focus torch and high-accuracy auto centering lens and nozzle. The servo-driven system reduces piercing time significantly, while the lens and nozzle design reduce set-up time and increase pierce, plasma and poor cut sensing to ensure consistent performance over a wide range of materials.

Together, these technologies yield a considerable increase in productivity, the supplier claimed.

Mazak Optonics emphasized that the STX Mark III design effort paid particular attention to flexibility. The result is available in 4×8 ft., 5×10-ft., and 6×12-ft. table configurations and three power output levels: 2.5 kW, 4.0 kW and 6.0 kW. It is also available with a range of automated material handling systems, including load/unload cells and flexible manufacturing systems.

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