Chicago, IL — Chicago Metal Fabricators (www.chicagometal.com), a fabricator of large plate that specializes in formed components and elements, has added a 6kW laser cutter to its equipment list, complementing a 3kW laser unit it already owns.
The laser, a Platemaster-II from W.A. Whitney (Rockford, IL) is capable of cutting 11/4-in-thick carbon steel, 1.0-in stainless steel, and 0.5-in aluminum. The machine is all linear motor drive and has a work area of 120 in x 480 in. The high power coupled with the linear drives allows fast cutting speeds in thinner materials and rapid piercing up to 11/4 in.
This laser augments the company's press brakes, which range up to 30 feet and 1000 tons, by improving component fit up for its numerous welding operations.