Is a Dual Source Laser Machine Right for You?

Sponsored content

In the laser market, you’ll notice that there has been a large increase in the number of dual source laser system options. The reason for this? The demand is there. There is a very appealing aspect to having more options with one laser system. With a dual source system you can choose the best laser source for your application quickly and easily.

For those new to lasers, dual source systems combine CO₂ and fiber laser sources in one laser system. The CO₂ laser is a versatile frequency of laser that works well with wood, acrylic, plastic, glass, marble and much more. What the CO₂ systems don’t do, however, is engrave depth into metal, which is where the addition of the fiber laser source comes into play. Depending on the system, you either can switch out the sources or operate both in tandem; just choose when you want to use each source.

The benefit of a dual laser source is the versatility of the system. But what other situations make a dual source system the right choice for your application?

1. Are you planning on primarily using only one source?

Will you be running the CO₂ laser 85 percent of the time because you’ll only occasionally have the need for the fiber laser? Then the dual source is a great way to add the additional material processing capabilities without adding a second machine to your shop floor.

It’s important to remember that with the dual source laser you can only use one laser source at a time, so you won’t be able to do both CO₂ and fiber jobs simultaneously. If you plan to keep both the CO₂ and fiber lasers busy 100 percent of the time, then purchasing a CO₂ system and fiber system separately may be a better option for you.

2. Do you have limited space?

If you have limited shop floor space, a dual source system can be a very appealing option. If you have the space for only one machine, then a dual source is a great way to maximize the capabilities of your machinery without needing to expand your physical work space.

3. Does your product contain both metal and another material?

Do you have a product that contains both metal and wood areas that you’d like to customize? Or plastic and steel? How about chrome and leather? Then a dual source might be the right choice for your application. A dual source system allows you to engrave with both the CO₂ laser (wood, acrylic, leather, etc.) and fiber laser (metal) in a single job sent to the laser.

So, now you can better decide if a dual source system is the right choice for you. By going into the purchasing process with the right questions to ask yourself, you’ll be better prepared to decide if a single dual source system or two separate CO₂ and fiber lasers are right for your situation.

If you’re interested in more information on Epilog’s Fusion M2 dual source systems, contact us to set up a demonstration with your local distributor to see which option is right for your situation.