Applications of IoT in Laser Cutting
While laser cutting has many advantages, it can also be challenging to implement. High initial costs, safety concerns and the need for specialized training can stop manufacturers without the necessary funds and experience from capitalizing on its potential. Internet of Things (IoT) functionality in the laser-cutting process can help businesses overcome those barriers. Smart home devices are some of the most familiar examples, but many industrial-grade, manufacturing-specific IoT solutions exist. This blog will look to highlight the applications of connecting IoT with laser cutters and how it can benefit manufacturers.
Improved Safety
One of the most significant advantages of IoT connectivity in the laser-cutting process is its impact on safety. Lasers can be dangerous, causing safety hazards such as amputations and even death when employees get in their way. This equipment can also emit hazardous fumes, presenting less noticeable but still serious risks. The IoT helps by creating distance between employees and these metal fabrication safety hazards. Workers can operate IoT-enabled laser cutters remotely without losing any precision. Consequently, they can run this equipment continuously without worrying about amputation or fume-related risks. Protecting employees’ well-being is enough to warrant these safety improvements on its own, but they also have tangible business benefits. Fewer injuries mean less unexpected downtime and fewer losses from workers’ compensation payments. Those savings can justify the higher costs of implementing IoT-connected laser-cutting equipment.
Real-Time Operating Data
IoT in laser cutting also lets mining plant and equipment Australia operators capitalize on real-time data. Connected sensors can gather data on operational factors like temperatures, cutting speed, material thickness, beam power and more and transmit it to workers in real-time. This insight enables more effective control. Data standardization is key to maximizing manufacturing efficiency, but businesses must realize that some manufacturing data issues are inevitable. In light of that unpredictability, employees must be able to adjust to these changes, which the IoT’s visibility enables. When laser operators can see changing conditions in real-time, they can adapt to them to maintain productivity and accuracy. An IoT sensor may reveal that a laser is not cutting material as quickly as it should, informing the operator to temporarily dial up the beam’s length, temperature, or pulse rate. Alternatively, warnings about warping or excessive temperatures can tell employees to dial these factors back. By adapting to these changes, workers prevent errors and maximize productivity.
Flexible Automation
IoT connectivity can also enable flexible automation in laser cutting. Automated cutting processes are more efficient but can be challenging to implement effectively because they often mean sacrificing adaptability. The IoT provides a solution by letting automated systems respond to real-time data from upstream processes. IoT-connected automated laser cutters can communicate with other IoT equipment earlier in the manufacturing process. They can then receive data on any unexpected delays, material irregularities or other disruptions and adjust accordingly to compensate for these unusual situations. That way, variability elsewhere in the production line will not disrupt automated laser-cutting processes.
Enhanced Inventory Management
Laser cutting can also benefit from IoT implementation outside of the laser cutter itself. Inventory management IoT solutions are an excellent example. By boosting inventory visibility and efficiency through the IoT and ensuring efficient communication, manufacturers can ensure a smoother laser-cutting workflow. IoT tracking solutions in material inventories can provide real-time updates on things like upcoming parts’ composition, thickness and other factors that impact cutting. With this information in hand, laser cutter operators or automated systems can adjust ahead of time to account for any irregularities or changes. That way, they can ensure they cut the material as quickly, safely, and accurately as possible. Adapting to unique material qualities can significantly impact productivity.
Final Thoughts
The above-mentioned four benefits make the laser-cutting process safer, more accurate, reliable, efficient, and cost-effective. Those improvements make laser cutting a better investment, even for steel fabrication Australia companies who previously could not justify its expense or necessary training. In turn, more facilities can experience the speed and accuracy of laser cutters in their production lines. Like with laser cutters themselves, implementing IoT systems can take time and money. However, as these advantages highlight, the results will compensate for those disruptions over time. As the industry becomes increasingly competitive and demands rise, manufacturers cannot afford to overlook IoT’s benefits.
