A Guide to Fiber Laser Tube Cutting - McKiney Manufacturing

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Choosing the Best Laser Cutting Machine Configuration

Choosing the right metal laser cutter configuration is key to maximizing efficiency, safety, and ROI. Whether you're a small workshop or a high-volume fabricator, there's a fiber laser metal cutting machine setup that fits your space, workflow, and production demands.

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The 5 most common fiber laser cutter configurations

1. Open Fixed Bed Systems

An open bed laser cutter for metal is ideal for small shops, garages, or confined workspaces where floor space is limited and safety requirements are minimal. These compact machines are best suited for lower production volumes. For shops looking to boost throughput, an open bed fiber laser metal cutting machine can be upgraded with a dual-platform exchange table. While the laser cuts one sheet, a new sheet can be preloaded at the rear. When the cut is finished, the tables switch, allowing for continuous operation with minimal downtime.

2. Enclosed Slide-Out Bed Systems

A fully enclosed CNC fiber laser cutting machine is the preferred option for established operations where foot traffic is higher and safety is a concern. These machines feature a safety enclosure and front-loading access via an electromagnetic pullout drawer. While they offer a relatively small footprint, loading and unloading must occur manually, and only while the machine is idle, making them better suited for medium-output environments where optimized production isn’t critical.

3. Enclosed Exchange Bed Systems

Combining safety and productivity, these systems feature a large-format enclosed bed with an exchange table. This configuration is popular in high-demand metal fabrication shops where throughput, automation, and workplace safety are top priorities. With optional auto loading and unloading systems, the fiber laser cutting machine can operate continuously without operator input, further maximizing output and minimizing labor.

4. Hybrid “Combo” Systems

Combo lasers merge sheet cutting capabilities with rotary chucks for pipe and tube cutting. Whether paired with an open or enclosed bed, the fiber optic laser cutter includes an extended gantry that moves beyond the bed to process pipes or tubes mounted on the neighboring chuck. This hybrid setup is ideal for job shops handling diverse cutting jobs in both flat and cylindrical formats.

5. Dedicated Pipe/Tube Systems

For operations focused solely on tubular materials, a dedicated pipe and tube fiber laser metal cutting machine is the best choice. These systems come in various lengths and automation levels, and typically include enclosures and advanced safety features like laser fences to protect operators. Their design supports high-precision, high-volume pipe and tube fabrication of various profiles. Round, square, L, U and I beams can be cut in seconds with optional bevelling to support welding.

Fiber Laser Configurations

Configuration Best For Loading Safety Level Automation Options Footprint Open Fixed Bed Limited Space, Limited Budget Side (Front for small pieces) Low Exchange Table, Auto Load/Unload Small to Large Enclosed Slide-Out Bed Limited Space, Safety Compliance Front Only High Manual Only Small to Large Enclosed Exchange Bed Throughput, Safety Compliance Rear (Front for small pieces) High Auto Load/Unload Large to Extra Large Open Fixed Bed Combo Versatility, Limited Space, Limited Budget Side (Front for small pieces) Low Exchange Table, Auto Load/Unload Large to Extra Large Enclosed Exchange Bed Combo Versatility, Throughput, Safety Compliance Rear for Sheet, Side for Tube (Front for small pieces) Med Auto Load/Unload Large to Extra Large Dedicated Pipe/Tube Throughput Side Only Med Auto Load/Unload Large to Extra Large

Selecting the Right Wattage for Your Metal Laser Cutter

When it comes to choosing a fiber laser cutting machine, laser power is one of the most critical factors influencing performance, cut quality, and overall efficiency. The wattage you select will determine how fast and how thick your metal laser cutter can cut through different materials, especially highly reflective metals like aluminum, brass and copper.

Lower wattage systems (1kW–6kW)

Lower wattages (1kW–6kW) are ideal for thin sheet metals such as carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. These machines offer excellent precision and edge quality at a more affordable price point, making them a great fit for small shops or operations focused on light fabrication.

Mid-range wattage systems (12kW–20kW)

Mid-range wattages (12kW–20kW) strike a strong balance between speed, versatility, and cost. A CNC fiber laser cutting machine in this range can efficiently process both thin and moderately thick materials, making it a smart investment for growing shops or fabricators seeking flexibility across a wider range of applications.

High wattage systems (30kW–60kW)

High wattage systems (30kW–60kW) are engineered for extreme productivity and cutting power. These fiber optic laser cutters can handle thick materials with impressive speed and edge quality, minimizing or eliminating secondary processing. Ideal for high-output manufacturing environments, they support fast cycle times and are optimized for 24/7 production.

It’s also important to factor in the types of metal you cut, your current production demands, and plans for scaling. While higher wattage machines require more investment, they often deliver faster throughput and lower operating costs per part, especially when paired with automated loading and continuous cutting capabilities.

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Ultimately, selecting the right wattage ensures your fiber laser metal cutting machine is not just powerful, but also profitable.

Precision Tube Cutting with Fiber Laser Technology

When it comes to processing metal tubing with speed, accuracy, and efficiency, a fiber laser cutting machine is the superior choice. Whether you're working with round, square, or rectangular tubes, EMP's fiber laser metal cutting machines deliver clean cuts, tight tolerances, and consistent results across a wide range of materials and wall thicknesses.

Tube cutting applications often demand precision for structural integrity and assembly fit. A CNC fiber laser cutting machine provides the control needed to produce complex cut patterns, beveled edges, and slots directly on the tube without secondary processing. This reduces the need for manual intervention, lowers production time, and minimizes waste.

Compared to traditional methods such as sawing or mechanical cutting, a fiber optic laser cutter significantly increases throughput and quality. Operators can easily switch between tube sizes and profiles using advanced nesting software and automated positioning, which makes the system ideal for high-mix, low-volume runs or continuous production.

EMP’s laser cutter for metal can be configured with rotary chucks that securely hold and rotate the tubing while the laser cuts along its surface. This setup ensures precision alignment and uniform results, even on complex geometries. For higher volume needs, machines can be equipped with auto-loading systems that streamline production and reduce labor costs.

From handrails and support frames to exhaust pipes and machine enclosures, our metal laser cutters help you produce repeatable, high-quality tube components that are ready for assembly. With fiber laser cutting machine price points now more accessible than ever, it's never been easier to bring professional-grade tube cutting in-house.

Compatible Profiles

Round Tube

Square and Rectangular Tube

L-Shaped (Angle Iron)

I-Beams and H-Beams

C-Channels and U-Profiles

The company is the world’s best pipe profile fiber laser(de,ru,fr) supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.