TRUMPF unveils next-generation fiber laser tube cutting systems

Revolutionary advances promise significant energy savings, enhanced productivity, and superior cutting performance over traditional CO₂ systems.

TRUMPF’s latest presentation heralds a transformative leap in tube cutting technology, as its new fiber laser solutions set a new benchmark against conventional CO₂ systems. The company’s cutting-edge TruLaser Tube Fiber machines, showcased alongside their CO₂ counterparts, offer dramatic improvements in efficiency and performance—a development that could reshape manufacturing processes across the metalworking industry.

Key comparisons: Efficiency and performance

This article presents detailed insights from side-by-side comparisons between TRUMPF’s CO₂ and fiber laser systems across different machine series. In the TruLaser Tube 5000 series, for example, the TruLaser Tube 4000 fiber cutting system demonstrates:

• Reduced energy consumption: Average power drops from 17.5 kW in the CO₂-based TruFlow 2000 to just 11 kW with fiber, accompanied by a decrease in connected load from 62 kVA to 39 kVA.
• Elimination of laser gases: While the CO₂ system requires a mix of CO₂, nitrogen, and helium, the fiber laser technology operates without any laser gases—translating into operational cost savings and environmental benefits.
• Enhanced material processing: The fiber laser system is capable of cutting thicker materials—up to 10 mm for mild steeland 6 mm for stainless steel—compared to 8  mm and 4 mm respectively with CO₂. Similar performance advantages are seen with aluminium, where the fiber laser doubles the cutting thickness, as well as the added capability of being able to cut copper and brass cutting (up to 4mm) on the fiber machines. There is also significant savings in production cutting time, with the fiber laser cutting much faster than it’s CO₂ predecessor and over comparatively larger tube wall thicknesses.

For the 7000 series, the performance gap widens further. The TruLaser Tube 6000 fiber laser:

• Consumes only 10 kW compared to 26 kW for its CO₂ counterpart (TruFlow 3600).
• Offers a connected load reduction from 78 kVA to 45 kVA.
• Boosts cutting performance, delivering +2.4 kW power and slashing production times. In one test, single-part cutting times dropped from 22 seconds to 11 seconds, while overall production time for 1,000 parts was reduced by 41%.

A standout metric from the data is the reported increase in cutting speed—up to +366%—when switching from CO₂ to fiber laser technology in large contour cutting operations.

Advanced software integration and automation

Beyond raw performance, TRUMPF’s new systems feature innovative programming solutions. The “Programming Tube” software suite integrates seamlessly with industry-leading CAD systems like SolidWorks, enabling:

• Rapid path calculation: From initial design (.step files) to final cutting paths, the software calculates optimal trajectories for both vertical and oblique cuts.
• Enhanced production planning: Features such as Tube Nest allow for efficient nesting of orders, maximising material utilisation and streamlining production workflow.
• Intuitive CAM capabilities: With a modern interface that supports 3D direct manipulation and automated programming based on TRUMPF’s established rules, manufacturers can significantly reduce setup times and boost throughput.

A versatile range for varied applications

TRUMPF’s expanded portfolio now spans three key series—TruLaser Tube 3000, 5000, and 7000 fiber laser cutting machines—each tailored to different production needs:

• Series 3000 offers cost-effective solutions for medium and low utilisation.
• Series 5000 targets high productivity requirements with extended cutting lengths and advanced automation features.
• Series 7000 provides top-tier performance for complex, high-volume operations, further enhanced by flexible unloading systems and an expanded processing spectrum for a wide range of tube geometries and size.

Additional cutting-edge options like RapidCut, SpatterGuard, and specialised tapping/beveling packages further enhance versatility and efficiency.

Industry impact: Sustainable manufacturing and future growth

TRUMPF’s strategic shift to fiber laser technology not only underlines a commitment to sustainable manufacturing but also positions the company at the forefront of industrial innovation. The substantial reductions in energy consumption, elimination of costly laser gases, and marked improvements in cutting speeds and precision are poised to deliver significant operational savings for manufacturers. As these systems become more widely adopted, the broader industry can expect enhanced productivity and a reduced environmental footprint.

For more detailed information, interested parties are encouraged to visit TRUMPF’s website at www.trumpf.com.

Are you ready to revolutionise your tube cutting capabilities?

Contact our TRUMPF experts and sheet metal experts now to:

• Discover your customised fiber laser solution
• Calculate your potential time and cost savings
• Start your upgrade journey with industry-leading technology