12KW LASER CUTTING TECHNOLOGY: A “BOOST” IN PRODUCTIVITY FOR VIETNAM’S STEEL STRUCTURE & SHIPBUILDING INDUSTRY.

In the context of the metal processing market shifting strongly from Plasma/Oxy-gas technology to Fiber Laser to optimize precision and operating costs, Vietweld is proud to be a pioneer in bringing Ultra-High Power Laser and Large Format solutions into actual production in Vietnam.

Recently, Vietweld successfully delivered and commissioned the Fiber Laser cutting machine project Model VW-16032LM with a capacity of 12kW and a cutting bed length of up to 16 meters. This is a clear testament to our technical capability and quality commitment to our steel plate processing customers.

1. Why is 12kW the “Sweet Spot” of Modern Technology?

According to the latest market research reports, the laser source segment from 12kW and above is becoming the new standard for steel structure and shipbuilding processing plants due to its ability to completely replace traditional Plasma cutting machines.

• Superior Cutting Power: With a 12,000W source, the machine can cut carbon steel up to 40-50mm and stainless steel 20-30mm with vertical, smooth edges, completely eliminating costly manual deburring processes.

• High Speed: At medium thicknesses (10-16mm), the cutting speed of 12kW laser is 4-5 times faster than Plasma and dozens of times faster than Oxy-gas, spectacularly shortening order lead times.

2. VW-16032LM: A “Giant” with High-Level Technical Configuration

The project Vietweld just implemented is impressive not only for its power but also for its technical configuration “tailored” specifically for the needs of large-format steel plate and long structural beam cutting. Below are the details that constitute the strength of this “masterpiece”:

A. Chassis & Mechanical Engineering:

Unlike low-cost machine lines using easily deformed hollow steel frames, VW-16032LM features:

• Machine Bed: Manufactured from 10mm thick steel plate, mortise-tenon welded, and undergone a stress-relief heat treatment at 600°C. This ensures the machine can withstand the massive load of 16m long steel plates without vibration or deformation throughout 20 years of operation.

• Effective Cutting Format: 3200mm x 16000mm. This size allows for placing large-sized original steel plates or processing continuous long beams without joining, optimizing material (Nesting) thoroughly.

• Gantry Beam: High-pressure aviation-grade cast aluminum, 35% lighter but 20% more rigid than regular aluminum, helping the machine reach 2.5G acceleration and an idle speed of 250m/min.

B. The “Heart” & “Brain” Control

The system is equipped with the best components to ensure 24/7 stability:

• Laser Source: Raycus 12000W (CE Standard for EU/US export). This is a highly stable source line, carefully selected by Vietweld to ensure continuous thick cutting performance.

• Cutting Head: Raytools BS12K with integrated Auto-focus, fully sealed design to prevent dust from entering the optical system, optimized for high power.

• Servo Motors: Using Delta (Taiwan) with high power (X-axis 3000W, dual Y-axis 2000W), combined with Shimpo (Japan) gearboxes to ensure positioning accuracy of ±0.03mm over the 16-meter long travel.

3. Maximum Operating Cost Saving Solution: High-Pressure Air System

One of the highlights of the solution Vietweld provided this time is the integration of a Dedicated Laser Cutting Air Compressor System, replacing costly Nitrogen/Oxygen liquid purchases.

In the solution package, we have synchronized:

• High-Pressure Screw Air Compressor (Model IVES 30A): 22kW capacity, providing a stable working pressure of 16 bar.

• Comprehensive Air Treatment System: Including an air dryer (refrigerated), 03 levels of filtration (coarse, 99.999% oil removal), and 02 units of 1000-liter air tanks.

• Benefits: The use of clean high-pressure compressed air helps cut stainless steel and thin steel at high speeds with bright, beautiful surfaces, while the cost is only the electricity for the compressor. This helps customers recover the auxiliary equipment investment in just a few months.

4. Vietweld – A Trusted Partner for Large-Scale Projects

Successfully handing over a 16m large-format 12kW Laser system is not just about selling a machine, it is about transferring a technology. VIETWELD commits:

• Installation & Handover: Experienced engineers directly install and precisely align the machine on the factory foundation.

• Operation Training: Guiding the customer’s technicians to master the technology, from machine operation and Nesting software use to basic maintenance.

• After-Sales Service: Genuine warranty, with a warehouse of consumables (nozzles, protective lenses) always ready.

5. Conclusion

With the VW-16032LM, Vietweld has brought a “game-changer” solution for steel structure processing businesses. The combination of powerful 12kW capacity, a 16m ultra-large bed format, and a cost-saving air compression solution has created an absolute competitive advantage for our customers.

For customers interested in high-power Fiber Laser cutting solutions, please contact: