Tube lasers are powerful and efficient machines known for precise cutting of tubes and various long materials. However, their high price and specialization often make them impractical for shops with lower volumes or diverse processing needs. If you’re exploring affordable alternatives to tube lasers, the FlexCNC (long-bed vertical machining center) stands out as a versatile, cost-effective solution.
Why Consider an Alternative to Tube Lasers?
Many businesses search for alternatives to tube lasers due to:
- Cost: High initial investment and operating expenses.
- Material and Size Limitations: Restrictions on diameter, thickness, and types of materials.
- Limited Versatility: Primarily designed for tube processing, limiting broader applications.
Benefits and Limitations of Tube Lasers
Tube lasers offer:
- High Speed: Rapid processing with minimal downtime.
- Complex Cutting Capability: Easily handles intricate contours, angles, and bevels.
- Automation: Integrated loaders minimize material handling.
- No Tool Changes: Efficient processing due to laser technology.
Drawbacks include:
- High purchase and operational costs.
- Diameter and thickness restrictions.
- Specialized applications with limited flexibility.
How is the FlexCNC an Effective Alternative to Tube Lasers?
FlexCNC handles most of the same tube laser tasks: contours, bevels, slots, and holes, plus full milling, drilling, tapping, thermal drilling, and plate or weldment machining.
More Affordable: Costs much less than a tube laser, so you don’t need high-volume runs to see ROI.
Superior Diameter and Size Flexibility: FlexCNC handles larger diameters beyond typical tube laser capabilities. It offers customizable bed sizes from 10ft to 80ft in length.
Thicker Materials: Can process materials thicker than typical tube laser limitations, only restricted by tooling selection.
Key Features of the FlexCNC Machine
- Multi-Operation Capability: Drill, mill, tap, and bevel in a single setup.
- Optional Dual 4th-Axis: Enhances productivity by machining one part while another part is being loaded or unloaded, significantly reducing downtime.
Real-World Customer Success Story
Felker Bros. Corp of Marshfield, Wisconsin, chose FlexCNC for efficient stainless steel pipe processing. A tube laser exceeded their budget, and a plasma cutter couldn’t meet their quality standards. FlexCNC provided an ideal solution, significantly improving productivity, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness. Read the full success story here.
Conclusion: Is the FlexCNC Right for You?
While tube lasers excel in high-speed tube processing, the FlexCNC delivers comparable capabilities with greater versatility and a lower cost of ownership. For shops that need more than just tube processing, FlexCNC is the smart choice.
Interested in learning more about FlexCNC? Contact us today
