Precision couplings keeps laser cutter in line

Established in 1985, Nottingham-based CadCam Technology has grown to a position of strength in laser-based cutting and engraving. Around 50% of the company's current output is exported via a global network of distributors, supplying machines to all levels of industry, from small architect model makers and education establishments, through to large automotive plants. The company's certified Class 1 machines use sealed CO2 lasers that are water or air cooled. A fine, clean, accurate depth of cut is achieved by software controlled adjustment of both the cutting speed and the power output of the laser. Closed loop servo motors and hardened ground steel rails provide precision movements with up to 2G acceleration. No wonder then that the company requires precision couplings when it comes to shaft alignment. "The Huco coupling enables the accuracy of the X-axis to be maintained by its action on the drive shaft," explained Richard Extall, purchasing manager at CadCam Technology. "This is imperative to maintain the accuracy of our machines, which is to within 0.025mm." Huco-Flex M precision couplings feature thin pressed steel membranes – torque is resolved to simple tensile stresses in opposing segments of the membranes. These couplings have near-infinite life and a dynamically balanced construction which makes them suitable for applications requiring high rotational speed and motion integrity. CadCam Technology takes advantage of the double stage version of the Huco-Flex M coupling – two membranes gives even greater misalignment capacity. Extall again: "[Huco couplings] are easy to fit and, to date, we have assembled approximately 9000 pieces on our FB range of X+Y-axis flatbed laser systems. The couplings have certainly proved their reliability over the years." And for the future, Extall believes the company would certainly consider using Huco-Flex M couplings on next generation machines. "For all our machines, we try to use common components. This enables us to limit and control our internal stock, and also makes a significant number of parts universally acceptable across our machine range," he concluded.