03/23/2017

“laserTec – Next Generation” – The update of the proven HOMAG laser system

“The surface to be glued on an edge band is melted using a laser beam and then pressed directly onto the workpiece. The result: Edges complying to the highest conceivable standard of quality.” The industry has become familiar with this method since the market launch of HOMAG laserTec back in 2009. The zero joint experts at HOMAG have now taken the experience gathered from over 200 supplied laserTec systems and used it as the basis for further development of this proven technique. The result “laserTec – Next Generation” was presented by HOMAG for the first time at the Rehau Edging Days in Schopfloch on March 10, 2017. Following on from the LIGNA 2017, the system will enter into series production at HOMAG.

The new version of the Homag laser system reflects the accumulated experience of more than 200 machines installed. Image: Homag Group

LaserTec - Next Generation is a reliable technique for both lot size 1 and serial production. Photo: Group of HOMAG

There were machine demonstrations here as well. Photo: Rehau

"Our aspiration is that our customers benefit from our experience." - Markus Kostenbader. Photo: Group of HOMAG

The updated laser system is standardized in structure and comprises three components: The laser head, the machine-integrated control unit and the cooling system. Particularly for medium sized and industrial enterprises which produce high-end furniture with an optical zero joint, the system presents the ideal solution – and is a reliable partner both for batch size 1 and series production. Its simple control concept makes for optimum system reliability, as well as outstanding maintenance and servicing convenience. The new system offers five stunning new additional benefits:

1. Performance optimization with the new diode Technology
Double the output per diode bar makes the method twice as efficient as before. Laser generation now takes place directly in the machine – reducing the number of interfaces for power transmission. In this way, the new system achieves a 20% increase in efficiency.

2. Simple structure for a smaller, more robust design
The new structure of the system makes it significantly more robust. At the same time, HOMAG has made a marked reduction in the size of the control section for the laser, meaning that the new system takes up considerably less space. It is simple to integrate into the machine and no longer requires additional external space for the control system (for instance a switch cabinet). The new design concept is overall significantly less susceptible to faults.

3. Extended service life and less maintenance work required due to new cooling concept
The diodes are now no longer directly cooled. This makes the demands made on the water quality significantly lower, with continuous water treatment and de-ionization no longer required. The user saves costs and benefits from lower maintenance, as there is no longer any need for DI cartridges. At the same time, the indirect diode cooling results in an extended service life of the lasers. Another benefit: The cooling system is only operational when production is actually taking place with the laser beam, resulting in noticeably lower power consumption.

4. Reduced set-up time and less space at the machine
The new system allows the user to change automatically between gluing and zero joint technology – as a standard feature. This eliminates the set-up time for changeover between gluing units. As the glue application is integrated in the magazine area, the unit no longer takes up an additional space at the machine.

5. Optimized beam profile at the edge and less susceptibility to faults
A new lens concept is used for the laser beam which ensures a more even transfer of energy than with the previous system. The energy density in the beam is significantly lower and the temperature remains the same throughout. In this way, HOMAG has eliminated any possibility of browning effects caused by burning at the edge. When the laser is in action, the new diode technology is capable of automatic optimum laser beam formation – without a scanner or complex focusing optics. The result: Elimination of movable parts such as oscillating mirrors which would require alignment.

• Two performance categories for every requirement
  The new laser system is the ideal solution for medium-sized and industrial companies wishing to manufacture high-end furniture with an optical zero joint. Both for batch size 1 and series production, the “Next Generation” laser is a reliable partner, available in two performance categories (with 26 J/cm²).

More Information about LIGNA.

Here you will get to the website of the Rehau Kantensymposium.