How to Prevent Heat-Induced Deformation in Laser Machining

Laser processing of highly reflective materials—such as copper, gold, and aluminum—presents unique challenges due to their high thermal conductivity. Heat is quickly dispersed throughout the material, enlarging the heat-affected zone (HAZ), altering mechanical properties, and often resulting in edge burrs and thermal deformation. These issues can compromise precision and overall product quality. However, several strategies can effectively mitigate these thermal challenges.

1. Optimize Laser Parameters

Adopting short-pulse lasers, such as picosecond or femtosecond lasers, can significantly reduce thermal impact. These ultra-short pulses act like precision scalpels, delivering energy in concentrated bursts that limit heat diffusion. However, determining the ideal combination of laser power and scanning speed requires thorough experimentation. Excessive power or slow scanning may still cause heat accumulation. Careful calibration of parameters ensures better control over the process, reducing unwanted thermal effects.

2. Apply Supporting Techniques

Local Cooling: Using industrial laser chillers for localized cooling can rapidly dissipate surface heat and limit heat spread. Alternatively, air cooling offers a gentler and contamination-free solution, especially for delicate materials.

Sealed Chamber Processing: Conducting high-precision laser machining in vacuum or inert gas environments within a sealed chamber reduces thermal conduction and prevents oxidation, further stabilizing the process.

Pre-Cooling Treatment: Lowering the material's initial temperature before processing helps absorb some of the heat input without exceeding thermal deformation thresholds. This technique minimizes heat diffusion and improves machining accuracy.

By combining laser parameter optimization with advanced cooling and processing strategies, manufacturers can effectively reduce thermal deformation in highly reflective materials. These measures not only enhance laser processing quality but also extend equipment longevity and improve production reliability.

Source: https://www.teyuchiller.com/how-to-prevent-heat-induced-deformation-in-laser-machining.html

Does Your Press Brake Need an Industrial Chiller?

Hydraulic press brakes generate substantial heat during operation, mainly from the hydraulic system. While many machines include built-in air-cooled radiators, these are not always sufficient under demanding conditions. In high-intensity or high-temperature environments, an 

When Does a Press Brake Need a Chiller?

High-Intensity, Continuous Operation: Long hours of processing thick or high-strength materials like stainless steel can cause excessive heat buildup.

High Ambient Temperatures: Poorly ventilated workshops or hot summer months can significantly reduce the efficiency of internal air cooling.

Precision and Stability Requirements: Rising oil temperatures reduce viscosity, destabilizing system pressure and increasing internal leakage, directly impacting bending angle and dimensional accuracy. A chiller keeps hydraulic oil at an optimal, stable temperature.

Inadequate Built-in Cooling: If the oil temperature regularly exceeds 55°C or even 60°C, or if precision and pressure fluctuations occur after long operation, an external chiller is likely necessary.

Why an Industrial Chiller Adds Value

Consistent Oil Temperature: Maintains bending accuracy and repeatability across production runs.

Enhanced Equipment Reliability: Prevents overheating-related failures, such as damaged hydraulic components, degraded seals, and oil oxidation, minimizing downtime.

Extended Equipment Lifespan: Protects the hydraulic system's core components from thermal stress and wear.

Higher Productivity: Enables stable, full-load operation over extended periods without compromising performance.

While small, intermittently used press brakes may function well with internal cooling, mid-to-large hydraulic press brakes used in continuous, high-load applications or high-temperature settings will benefit greatly from an industrial chiller. It's not just a helpful add-on—it's a smart investment in performance, longevity, and production efficiency. Always monitor your machine's oil temperature and operational behavior to make an informed decision.

Source: https://www.teyuchiller.com/does-your-press-brake-need-an-industrial-chiller.html