Processing heads explained
What does a processing head do?
A processing head is designed to be attached to large, usually at least partially automated machining centres such as CNC systems, robots or laser processing machines. It contains all the necessary parts and tools that need to be directly on the workpiece.
Our processing heads - laser optics and beam splitting components for metal 3D printing
Our processing heads in particular contain optical components to form a beam and thus enable metal to be 3D printed in the form of wire on a surface - get an impression here:
Definition of processing head
The processing head is the ‘last technical assembly in the beam path from the laser to the processing location in laser material processing’. ‘In the processing head, necessary optical, electrical and mechanical construction elements (e.g. focusing optics, process gas nozzle and distance control) are combined, which can be moved as the last element to the material as a compact device.’
[translated after DIN 32532:2009-08, Schweißen – Laserstrahlverfahren zur Materialbearbeitung – Begriffe für Prozesse und Geräte]
The term processing head is also used in ISO 11553. Our laser welding heads are processing heads for a laser processing machine. A processing head is an interchangeable equipment.Further related definitions of processing heads in our topic area
Further relevant cross-topic standards for processing heads
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General data on our processing heads
Can be integrated into | CNC machines, laser processing machines, units, machining centres, industrial robot systems and similar |
Can be used for processes | laser wire deposition, welding with filler wire, overlay welding with filler material, 3D metal printing, additive manufacturing, rapid prototyping, directed energy deposition and similar |
Usable materials as wire | steel, nickel, titanium, copper and cobalt alloys as solid wire are typical. But many others are also possible. |
Size of the process head | 40° angle in the area of the process |
Other descriptions for our product | welding component, print head, optics, beam-guiding device, beam-shaping device |
Further information can be found under our products:
Advantages of interchangeable equipment
Interchangeable equipment in accordance with Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC is designed to be fitted to the basic machinery by the end user. Our welding head is such interchangeable equipment for a laser machining center. In compliance with safety regulations and instructions, many processes are thus regulated and can provide you with safety.
Find out more about the rules that apply to interchangeable equipment. Please also note that the subsequent Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 must be applied by 2027 at the latest.
Notice: Links to external websites with
different data protection regulations!
Attachment to laser processing machine
Our welding head is designed to be installed in a laser machining center. This can be anything from a CNC machining centre to a robot system, but above all it must comply with ISO 11553. This series of standards places particular demands on laser safety and thus forms the basis for safe handling.
Laser and welding terminology
There are many different terms used in the fields of lasers and welding. The ISO 25901 and ISO 11145 series of standards bring definitions and clarity to these areas and thus enable standardised communication.
Technical environment
Our products are designed to be installed in your existing structure. Of course, we are also happy to support you with any open questions and advise you on the technical feeds required for our product.
Advantages for machining centres and industrial robots
Our products can be installed compactly and flexibly in a technical environment and are therefore well suited for machining centres and industrial robots. Wire, laser, cooling water and gas media feeds can be customised to your requirements.
We are also manufacturer of a shielding gas chamber
Our shielding gas chamber is also available for handling more and hightly sensitive metals. This can shield the welding environment from atmospheric oxygen and thus prevent oxidation. Features such as compact, robust, compatible, customisable and allow you to use the protective gas chamber in your own way.
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