How to Use and Maintain a Metal Plate Fiber Laser Cutting Machine

Operating and maintaining a metal plate fiber laser cutting machine doesn’t have to be complicated. In this guide, you’ll learn:

1. How to operate the machine in 1 minute
2. How to perform weekly maintenance in 6 simple steps

1-Minute Operation Guide for Fiber Laser Cutting

Here’s a quick, step-by-step overview of how to safely start and use your machine:

Startup Process

1. Power on the machine
2. Turn on supporting systems:
   • Chiller
   • Air or gas compressor
3. Check the emergency stop button to ensure it’s released
4. Switch on the computer and open the control software
5. When a safety warning appears, click OK to confirm

Load and Prepare the File

6. Set the machine origin (zero point)
7. Import your cutting design (DXF format file)
8. Adjust cutting process settings:
   • Select your file
   • Choose the correct sheet thickness
   • Confirm the cutting parameters

Optimize the Cutting Sequence

9. Open the sorting box and sort the cutting path:
   • From bottom to top
   • From inside to outside
10. Confirm the sequence

Prepare the Machine for Cutting

11. Install the correct nozzle (usually copper)
12. Run capacitance calibration (auto-focus)
13. When calibration is successful, click OK

Start Cutting

14. Select the graphic
15. Use the remote control to turn on the light
16. Click Start to begin cutting

Weekly Maintenance Checklist (6 Key Areas)

Keeping your fiber laser cutting machine in good shape helps ensure safe, high-quality cutting. Here’s what to check every week:

1. Lubrication System (Oil Pot)

• Check oil level every week.
• The system will alert you if the oil is too low.
• Add lubricant as needed to prevent wear and tear.

2. Water Tank Temperature Settings

Set the cooling temperatures based on the season:

In Summer:

• Low-temp zone: 25–26°C
• Normal-temp zone: 28–29°C
• Room (air-conditioning): 22–25°C

In Winter:

• Low-temp zone: 22–23°C
• Normal-temp zone: 24–25°C

3. Replace and Clean Water System

• Change the water once a week
• At the same time, clean these components:
  • Filter element
  • Water tank
  • Condenser
  • Filter screen
  • Fan

Use a clean cloth, soft brush, and compressed air tools for best results.

4. Mechanical Cleaning

Turn off the machine first. Then clean:

• Guide rails and lead screws with a dry cloth
• Apply lubricating oil after cleaning

Clean the following parts weekly:

• X-axis
• Outer shaft
• Linear guide rails
• Gear rack

5. Control Box Cleaning

• Use a vacuum cleaner to remove internal dust
• This reduces electrical hazards
• Perform a full dust check regularly to keep the box clean

6. Industrial Control Computer

• Clean every 6 months (or every 3 months in dusty environments)
• Cleaning steps:
  1. Remove the fixing rod and open the cover
  2. Use a dry cloth to gently wipe:
     • Motion control cards
     • Memory modules
     • Interior dust

Conclusion

Operating and maintaining a fiber laser cutting machine isn’t difficult when broken down into simple steps.

• For best results: Set focus properly, follow the startup checklist, and stick to weekly maintenance.
• Keeping your machine clean and calibrated ensures better cuts, fewer burrs, and longer machine life.