redPOWER QUBE Cased Fiber Laser User Manual...7.8 Connecting and Disconnecting the PIPA-Q Optical...

redPOWER QUBE

Cased Fiber Laser

Instructions for Use

© 2016 SPI Lasers UK Ltd.

Commercial in Confidence

SM-S00500 Revision A 21 October 2016

redPOWER QUBE Cased Fiber Laser User Manual

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Safety Notes

These safety notes indicate potential hazards associated with this QUBE Fiber Laser and the

probable consequences of not avoiding them. Directions on the safe use of this QUBE Fiber

Laser are provided in the remainder of these Instructions for Use, particularly Sections 3

Health and Safety, 7 Installation, and 8 Operating Instructions.

Throughout these Instructions for Use warning messages are given in contexts in which a

hazard may occur.

General Hazard Information

WARNING: Ensure that all Users are fully aware of all safety

implications identified in these Instructions for Use before

attempting to install, operate or maintain this QUBE Fiber Laser.

WARNING: Attempts to modify or alter this QUBE Fiber Laser or

the use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures

other than those specified in these Instructions for Use may render

this QUBE Fiber Laser unsafe.

Attempts to modify or alter this QUBE Fiber Laser or the use of controls or adjustments or

performance of procedures other than those specified in these Instructions for Use additionally

will invalidate the warranty and may result in patent infringement.

Laser Integrators are not authorized to modify this QUBE Fiber Laser.





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Laser Hazard Information

WARNING: The output aperture of this QUBE Fiber Laser may

emit both invisible and visible laser radiation.

The invisible laser radiation may be in excess of the Accessible

Emission Limit (AEL) for a Class 4 laser. The invisible radiation can

be up to approximately 1.5kW CW in normal operation and 2.3kW

with a single fault. The wavelength of this invisible radiation is in the

range 1050-1250nm.

Additionally, this QUBE Fiber Laser contains embedded lasers that

emit invisible laser radiation up to approximately 3.2kW CW in

normal operation and 4.8kW CW with a single fault. The

wavelength of this invisible radiation is in the range 900-1000nm.

AVOID EYE OR SKIN EXPOSURE TO DIRECT OR SCATTERED

RADIATION.

Contact with direct or scattered laser radiation can cause damage

to the eyes, burn human tissue and start fires.

The optical connector shall be mounted in a protective housing

which prevents human access to laser radiation (including errant

radiation) in excess of the AEL for class 1, for example a housing

meeting the requirements of EN 60825-4.

WARNING: The output aperture of this QUBE Fiber Laser may

emit both invisible and visible laser radiation.

The visible laser radiation is below the Accessible Emission Limit

(AEL) for a Class 2 laser. The wavelength of the visible laser

radiation is in the range 630 – 680nm.

DO NOT STARE INTO BEAM.

WARNING: Before carrying out any maintenance task detailed in

these Instructions for Use ensure that power to the QUBE Fiber

Laser is disconnected. Failure to do so may lead to serious

personal injury.

Electrical Hazard Information

WARNING: This QUBE Fiber Laser contains hazardous AC

voltages up to 240V. These may still be present even when the

power is disconnected.

Contact may cause electrical shock and injury





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CAUTION: This QUBE Fiber Laser is designed to BS EN 60204-

1:2006+A1:2009 and must be grounded for safety and to comply

with regional electrical codes.

Failure to do so may result in electric shock and incorrect operation

of the QUBE Fiber Laser.

CAUTION: There is no Mains power isolation switch on this QUBE

Fiber Laser. The QUBE Fiber Laser should only be connected to a

switched electricity supply which can be isolated.

Weight Hazard Information

CAUTION: This QUBE Fiber Laser is heavy and so precautions

must be taken when lifting and moving.

Failure to do so may cause serious injury

Pressure Hazard Information

CAUTION: Ensure an approved overpressure safety device

compliant with ISO4126-1 (or equivalent) is installed when

connecting this QUBE Fiber Laser to an external chiller or factory

water supply.

Failure to do so may result in water leaks and damage to the QUBE

Fiber Laser and auxiliary equipment.

Laser for Incorporation

CAUTION: This PRISM Fiber Laser is specifically designed to be a

laser for incorporation or integration into other equipment. As such,

it is not required to, and does not, meet the requirements for a

stand-alone laser system as defined by IEC/EN 60825-1.





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CONTENTS

1 Structure and Scope of these Instructions for Use 11

2 Definition of Symbols and Terms 12

3 Health and Safety 13

3.1 General 13 3.2 Intended Use of the QUBE Fiber Laser 14 3.3 Hazards 14 3.4 Compliance 16 3.5 Labelling 18

4 Document References 20

5 redPOWER QUBE Product Tour 20

5.1 Key Parts 21 5.2 Key Features 23 5.3 Software Tools 27 5.4 Control System Safety Functions 28 5.5 Auxiliary Equipment 30 5.6 Explanation of Order Codes 31

6 Getting Started 32

6.1 Receiving and Inspection 32 6.2 Unpacking and Handling 32 6.3 Unpacking the Beam Delivery Optic 34

7 Installation 35

7.1 Safety and Compliance During Installation 35 7.2 Location and Environment 35 7.3 Mounting 36 7.4 Cooling Water Connections 36 7.5 FiberView Installation 39 7.6 Electrical Connections 40 7.7 Routing the Beam Delivery Optic 63 7.8 Connecting and Disconnecting the PIPA-Q Optical Connector 64

8 Operating Instructions 68

8.1 Before Operation 68 8.2 Powering the QUBE Fiber Laser On and Off 69 8.3 Control of Operating Temperature 69 8.4 Alarms and Warnings 70

9 Laser Control and FiberView 71

9.1 Overview 71 9.2 Basic Operation 71 9.3 Parameter Sets 74





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9.4 Process Cycles 78 9.5 Other Settings 80

10 Basic Control using Serial Communication 82

10.1 Overview 82 10.2 Functionality 83 10.3 Basic Serial Communication Protocol Message References 85

11 Machine Interface Reference 85

11.1 Overview 85 11.2 Default Input Functionality 86 11.3 Default Output Functionality 107 11.4 Machine Interface Protocol Message References 112

12 Alarm and Warning Messages 113

12.1 Alarm Code Definitions 113 12.2 Warning Code Definitions 115

13 Maintenance 118

13.1 Periodic Inspection 118 13.2 General Cleaning 118 13.3 Cleaning Optics 119

14 Disposal 119

15 General Information 119

15.1 Trade Marks 119 15.2 Licensing 119 15.3 Software 119 15.4 Warranties 120 15.5 Copyright 120 15.6 Changes 120

16 Contact Information 121

17 General Specifications 121

17.1 Operating Conditions 122 17.2 Non-Operating Conditions 123 17.3 Utility Requirements 124

18 Optical Specifications 126

18.1 General Optical Specifications 126 18.2 Optical Output – PIPA-Q Optical Connector 127

19 Mechanical Specifications 128

19.1 Overall Dimensions and Masses 128 19.2 PIPA-Q Optical Connector 130

20 Customer Service 131





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FIGURES

Figure 1 WEEE Symbol ........................................................................................................................... 16

Figure 2 redPOWER QUBE Cased Fiber Laser Key Parts .................................................................. 21

Figure 3 redPOWER QUBE Cased Fiber Laser Key Parts .................................................................. 22

Figure 4 QUBE Cased Fiber Laser Key Features ................................................................................... 23

Figure 5 redPOWER PRISM FL Module Key Features ........................................................................ 24

Figure 6 PIPA-Q Optical Connector with Protection Against Back-Reflection ........................................ 26

Figure 7 redPOWER QUBE Cased Fiber Laser with Auxiliary Equipment ........................................... 30

Figure 8 QUBE Fiber Laser in Packing Case as Received ..................................................................... 33

Figure 11 Bubble Wrap and Top Foam Block Removed ......................................................................... 33

Figure 12 Four Point Sling Attached ....................................................................................................... 34

Figure 13 QUBE Fiber Laser on Trolley .................................................................................................. 34

Figure 15 Cooling Water Connections to QUBE Fiber Laser .................................................................. 37

Figure 16 Interface connectors ................................................................................................................ 41

Figure 17 Internal Connections for Electrical Supply .............................................................................. 43

Figure 18 Machine Interface Connections Circuits.................................................................................. 46

Figure 19 PL5 Programmable Inputs ...................................................................................................... 47

Figure 20 PL5 Programmable Outputs .................................................................................................... 48

Figure 21 Connections to PL81 ............................................................................................................... 54

Figure 22 Typical connections to PL82 (control contact and indicator lamps) ........................................ 56

Figure 23 Typical connections to PL82 (PLC) ......................................................................................... 57

Figure 24 Timing diagram ........................................................................................................................ 58

Figure 25 Typical Connections to PL91 .................................................................................................. 59

Figure 26 A Typical Connection to PL96 ................................................................................................. 60

Figure 27 A Typical Connection to PL98 ................................................................................................. 61

Figure 29 PIPA-Q with protective cap ..................................................................................................... 65

Figure 30 Connector before removal of protective tape .......................................................................... 66

Figure 31 Red Dots Aligned .................................................................................................................... 66

Figure 32 Connector Inserted into Receiver ............................................................................................ 67

Figure 33 Fiber Laser Connection Dialog ................................................................................................ 72

Figure 34 FiberView Overview Screen .................................................................................................... 73

Figure 35 FiberView Parameter Editor .................................................................................................... 76





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Figure 36 Shape Editor Window .............................................................................................................. 78

Figure 37 Steps Grouped Into Process Cycles ....................................................................................... 79

Figure 38 FiberView Process Cycle Editor .............................................................................................. 79

Figure 39 Solenoid Set Point Update Screen .......................................................................................... 81

Figure 40 State Transition Diagram ........................................................................................................ 83

Figure 41 Moving to STANDBY in Remote Control................................................................................. 88

Figure 42 Moving to OFF in Remote Control .......................................................................................... 88

Figure 43 Entering Remote Control (OFF state, Laser Start Set) ........................................................... 89

Figure 44 Entering Remote Control (STANDBY or ON state, Laser Start Clear) ................................... 89

Figure 45 Entering Remote Control (STANDBY or ON state, Laser Start Set) ...................................... 89

Figure 46 Moving to ON in Remote Control ............................................................................................ 92

Figure 47 Moving to STANDBY in Remote Control (No ramp down time configured) ............................ 92

Figure 48 Moving to STANDBY in Remote Control (Ramp down time configured) ................................ 93

Figure 49 Moving to ON state in Remote Control before the state has moved to the STANDBY state . 93

Figure 50 Entering Remote Control (STANDBY state, Laser ON Input Set) .......................................... 94

Figure 51 Entering Remote Control (ON state, Laser ON Input Set) ...................................................... 94

Figure 52 Entering Remote Control (ON state, Laser ON Input Clear, No ramp down time configured) 95

Figure 53 Entering Remote Control (ON state, Laser ON Input Clear, Ramp down time configured) .... 95

Figure 54 Starting a Process Cycle in Remote Control ........................................................................... 96

Figure 55 Stopping a Process Cycle in Remote Control (No ramp down time configured in active step

Parameter Step) ...................................................................................................................................... 96

Figure 56 Stopping a Process Cycle in Remote Control (Ramp down time configured in active Step

Parameter Step) ...................................................................................................................................... 97

Figure 57 Starting a Process Cycle in Remote Control before the state has moved to the STANDBY

state ......................................................................................................................................................... 97

Figure 58 Entering Remote Control (STANDBY state, Process Cycle Start Input SET) ........................ 98

Figure 59 Entering Remote Control (Process Cycle Active, Process Cycle Start Input Set, No ramp

down time configured in active step Parameter Step) ............................................................................. 98

Figure 60 Entering Remote Control (Process Cycle Active, Process Cycle Start Input Set, Ramp down

time configured in active step Parameter Step) ...................................................................................... 99

Figure 61 Entering Remote Control (STANDBY state, Process Cycle Start Input Set) .......................... 99

Figure 62 Entering Remote Control (Process Cycle Active, Process Cycle Start Input CLEAR, No ramp

down time configured in active step Parameter Step) ........................................................................... 100

Figure 63 Entering Remote Control (Process Cycle Active, Process Cycle Start Input CLEAR, Ramp

down time configured in active step Parameter Step) ........................................................................... 100

Figure 64 Advancing Process Cycle Steps in Remote Control ............................................................. 102





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Figure 65 Advancing Process Cycle Steps in Remote Control(Before Process Cycle Wait Is Set) ..... 103

Figure 66 Alarm Reset ........................................................................................................................... 104

Figure 67 Alarm Reset When in the ON state ....................................................................................... 105

Figure 68 Edge Trigger Operation(Pulsed Output Only) ....................................................................... 106

Figure 69 Gated Trigger Operation (Pulsed Output) ............................................................................. 107

Figure 70 Gated Trigger Operation (CW Output) .................................................................................. 107

Figure 71 Environmental Conditions for Non-Condensing Operation ................................................... 123

Figure 72 Overall Dimensions ............................................................................................................... 129

Figure 74 Outline Drawing – PIPA-Q Beam Delivery Optic .................................................................. 131

TABLES

Table 1 Safety, Explanatory and Compliance Labels ............................................................................. 18

Table 2 Information Labels ...................................................................................................................... 19

Table 3 Explanation of Order Code ......................................................................................................... 31

Table 4 Water Tubing .............................................................................................................................. 38

Table 5 Water Tubing .............................................................................................................................. 38

Table 6 Laser Integrator Supplied PC – For Operating FiberView.......................................................... 39

Table 7 Interface Connectors .................................................................................................................. 41

Table 8 Electrical Supply Cord Wire Sizes .............................................................................................. 42

Table 9 Serial Port Connections .............................................................................................................. 43

Table 10 PL5 Machine Interface Pin Out ................................................................................................ 45

Table 11 Laser Inputs .............................................................................................................................. 49

Table 12 Laser Status Outputs ................................................................................................................ 51

Table 14 Parameter Set Attributes .......................................................................................................... 74

Table 15 Process Cycle Step Attributes .................................................................................................. 80

Table 16 Default Configuration of Machine Interface Inputs ................................................................... 86

Table 17 Default Configuration of Machine Interface Outputs ................................................................ 86

Table 18 Replacement Windows ........................................................................................................... 119

Table 19 Contact Information ................................................................................................................ 121

Table 20 Environmental Operating Conditions...................................................................................... 122

Table 21 Non-Operating Conditions ...................................................................................................... 123

Table 22 Electrical Requirements ......................................................................................................... 124





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Table 23 Power Consumption ............................................................................................................... 124

Table 24 Cooling Water Requirements ................................................................................................. 125

Table 25 Cooling Requirements (Connection to Manifold) ................................................................... 125

Table 23 Required Chiller Capacity ....................................................................................................... 126

Table 26 Cooling Requirements (Connection to PIPA-Q Optical Connector) ....................................... 126

Table 27 General Optical Specifications ............................................................................................... 126

Table 28 Single Mode Optical Specifications ........................................................................................ 127

Table 29 50µm Multimode Optical Specifications ................................................................................. 127

Table 30 100µm Multimode Optical Specifications ............................................................................... 128

Table 31 Case Lengths ......................................................................................................................... 128

Table 32 Mechanical Specifications – PIPA-Q Optical Connector ........................................................ 130





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1 Structure and Scope of Instructions for Use

These Instructions for Use for SPI Lasers’ redPOWER® QUBE Cased Fiber Laser contains

all the information that Users needs to know for its safe and efficient use. This information is

important. These Instructions for Use should be read before installing and using the QUBE

Fiber Laser and made available for reference at the location where the QUBE Fiber Laser is

being used. Additional or replacement copies are available from SPI Lasers.

These Instructions for Use are divided into the sections below which provide Users with health

and safety information before introducing the QUBE Fiber Laser and then guiding them

through its installation, operation, maintenance and disposal. Lastly it provides other useful

information and the QUBE Fiber Laser’s specifications.

1 Structure and Scope of Instructions for Use

2 Definition of Symbols and Terms

3 Health and Safety

4 Document References

5 redPOWER QUBE Product Tour

6 Getting Started

7 Installation

8 Operating Instructions

9 Laser Control and FiberView

10 Basic Control using Serial Communication

11 Machine Interface Reference

12 Alarm and Warning Messages

13 Maintenance

14 Disposal

15 General Information

16 Contact Information

17 General Specifications

18 Optical Specifications

19 Mechanical Specifications

20 Customer Service

The QUBE Cased Fiber Lasers covered by these Instructions for Use have order codes:

SP -

0300

0500

0750

1000

1500

- C - W -

020

050

100

-

10

15

20

- PIQ - 0

B 12 - 001 - 001

The order code can be found on a label on the rear panel of the QUBE Fiber Laser.

Details of the options shown in bold are expanded in Section 5.6 below.





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2 Definition of Symbols and Terms

This symbol alerts the user to the hazard of exposure to laser

radiation

This symbol alerts the user to the hazard of exposure to electricity

This symbol alerts the user to the hazard caused by the weight of

this QUBE Fiber Laser

This general warning symbol emphasizes important information

needed during installation and operation

This symbol identifies the protective conductor terminal (ground

point)

WARNING: Indicates a hazard with a medium level of risk which, if not avoided,

could result in death or serious injury

Warnings must be observed to prevent personal injury to yourself

and others.

CAUTION: Indicates a hazard with a low level of risk which, if not avoided,

could result in minor or moderate injury

Cautions must be observed to prevent personal injury and damage

to or destruction of equipment or loss of operational effectiveness.





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QUBE Fiber

Laser:

QUBE Fiber Laser as used herein means the item that was

procured from SPI Lasers.

This QUBE Fiber Laser is a complete fiber laser system. By

‘complete’ it is meant a laser system as sold and ready for use for

its intended purpose without modifications to the specification of

the product.

This QUBE Fiber Laser is specifically designed to be a laser for

incorporation or integration into other equipment. As such, it does

not meet the full requirements for a stand-alone laser system as

defined by 21 CFR 1040.10 and IEC/EN 60825-1.

This QUBE Fiber Laser is not a consumer product and is not to be

sold on or made available as such.

Laser

Integrator:

Any person, company or organisation who integrates this QUBE

Fiber Laser into equipment, or any person, company or

organisation who uses this QUBE Fiber Laser in the form as

supplied by SPI Lasers.

A Laser Integrator is skilled in and understands the integration

issues surrounding the use, design and supply of laser products to

end users in the end markets which it supplies.

User: Individuals or organizations that use this QUBE Fiber Laser. User

includes the Laser Integrator and the end user

Authorised

Personnel:

Those who have attended official Training Courses and have been

certified as competent.

SPI Lasers: SPI Lasers UK Ltd.

3 Health and Safety

3.1 General

This section gives information on the hazards which may be encountered during installation,

operation and maintenance of this QUBE Fiber Laser and steps to reduce the risk. Also

included is information on laser and electrical safety compliance. All safety instructions,

including those in the Safety Notes and those in other sections of these Instructions for Use,

must be followed. Not following safety instructions may constitute a hazard to Users and third

parties or cause damage to property and the QUBE Fiber Laser.

Only Authorised Personnel who have been instructed in, and fully understand, the necessary

safety procedures should operate this QUBE Fiber Laser. Access must be restricted to

Authorised Personnel.

Any local safety requirements for the operation of this equipment must be complied with.





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Throughout the documentation, ‘WARNING’, and ‘CAUTION’ paragraphs appear. It is the

responsibility and duty of all Users who operate and maintain this equipment to fully

understand the WARNING and CAUTION and act in order to reduce or eliminate hazards.

3.2 Intended Use of the QUBE Fiber Laser

This QUBE Fiber Laser has been designed exclusively for incorporation or integration into

other equipment for processing:

solid metals, including metal alloys and metal powders

ceramics in both solid and powder form

plastics

composite materials

Operating the device within the limits of its designated use requires the user to:

observe the instructions set out in this operating manual

install and use this QUBE Fiber Laser in compliance with international, national and

local regulations regarding laser safety, for example IEC/EN 60825-1 and 21 CFR

1040.10.

install and use this QUBE Fiber Laser in compliance with international, national and

local regulations regarding the safety of electrical equipment, for example BS EN

60204

wire and connect the electrical lines to this QUBE Fiber Laser in compliance with

international, national and local regulations regarding electromagnetic compatibility

(EMC), for example the relevant sections of IEC/EN 61000 and FCC CFR47

not move this QUBE Fiber Laser when it is switched on (except that the optical

connector may be moved provided that the bending limits of the conduit are observed)

carry out necessary inspection and maintenance work

This QUBE Fiber Laser is not intended:

for processing in connection with flammable or explosive materials

for use in an explosion prone environment

SPI Lasers cannot be held liable for any damage resulting from such use. The risk lies entirely

with the User.

3.3 Hazards 3.3.1 Laser Hazards

All Warnings, including those in the Safety Notes and those in other sections of these

Instructions for Use, must be heeded.





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Laser emissions from the housing of the QUBE Fiber Laser and the conduit of the beam

delivery optic are less than the AEL for Class 1 of IEC/EN 60825-1 with a single fault.

WARNING: Care should be taken especially when controlling this

QUBE Fiber Laser remotely across a network.

Failure to do so could result in another User being exposed to

hazardous levels of radiation.

It is the responsibility of the Laser Integrator to ensure that when

controlled remotely no hazardous levels of radiation are emitted

when unsafe to do so.

3.3.2 Electrical Hazard






This QUBE Fiber Laser is not provided with any electrical supply cord (flex or lead).

Only qualified technical personnel who are familiar with the equipment should remove the

covers from the laser. No electrical hazard exists if the system is operated normally.

3.3.3 Thermal Hazard

In normal operation the QUBE Fiber Laser should not get hot. However if a fault occurs the

external surfaces may get hot.

3.3.4 Materials Processing Hazards

Materials processing can generate vapour, fumes, solid particulates and other air

contaminants that may irritate, be toxic, or even fatal. It is the responsibility of the user to

ensure that all relevant safety precautions are followed and that any legal requirements are

adhered to in accordance with local legislation. It is advised that Material Safety Data Sheets

(MSDS) for any material to be processed are evaluated and that adequate measures for fume

extraction and venting are considered. Interaction of the beam with certain materials can

cause potentially harmful levels of visible radiation to be emitted. Appropriate protective

measures must be taken.

CAUTION: It is essential that any debris associated with laser

processing is removed and cleaned away on a regular basis.

Failure to do so may result in fire.





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3.3.5 Other Hazards

While most of the hazard comes from laser radiation, there are certain non-beam hazards that

are often associated with use of laser systems. The QUBE Fiber Laser requires mains power

and is water-cooled. Electricity and water, individually or in combination, may create hazards.

It is recommended that the QUBE Fiber Laser should be installed sufficiently far above the

floor to reduce the risk from electricity in the case of flooding: at least 250mm is

recommended.

Mechanical hazards may include moving parts in cutting, welding and material handling

systems.

High temperatures and fire hazards may also result from the operation of Class 4 lasers.

3.4 Compliance

Within the EU, the QUBE Fiber Laser is CE marked and is supplied with a Declaration of

Conformity. The standards which SPI Lasers declares that the QUBE Fiber Laser is in

conformity with, and the directives which SPI Lasers declares that the QUBE Fiber Laser

complies with the requirements of are listed in the Declaration of Conformity.

Within the USA, the QUBE Fiber Laser is shipped with an appropriately completed FDA 2877

form.

It is the responsibility of the Laser Integrator to ensure that the integrated laser system

conforms with the appropriate standards and complies with the appropriate directives.

Nonetheless, many of the electronic and labelling requirements have been incorporated into

the QUBE Fiber Laser to facilitate compliance.

3.4.1 Europe: WEEE Directive

Figure 1 WEEE Symbol

This symbol indicates that, at end of life, this QUBE Fiber Laser should be separately

collected from unsorted waste.

3.4.2 Europe: RoHS Directive

This QUBE Fiber Laser is in conformity with European RoHS Directive. Compliance is

demonstrated through conformance with this standard which is harmonised to the RoHS

directive:

BS EN 50581:2012





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3.4.3 Europe: Machinery Directive

This QUBE Fiber Laser does not fall within the meaning of ‘machinery’ given in the Machinery

Directive, 2006/42/EC, and therefore SPI Lasers cannot declare conformity with the Directive.

However SPI Lasers recognises that Laser Integrators may require the integrated laser

system to comply with the Directive. SPI Lasers has therefore designed for compliance to

parts of the standards listed below which are harmonised to the Machinery Directive:

EN11252:2013

EN13849-1:2015

EN13849-2:2012

EN11554:2008

EN12100:2010

EN12198-1:2000+A1:2008, EN12198-2:2002+A1:2008, EN12198-3:2002+A1:2008

EN 60204-1:2006+A1:2009

3.4.4 Europe: Low Voltage Directive

This QUBE Fiber Laser falls within the scope of the Low Voltage Directive as the Directive

applies to electrical equipment designed for use with a voltage rating of greater than 75V. SPI

Lasers has therefore demonstrated compliance to parts of the standards given below which

are harmonised to the Low Voltage Directive:

EN 60204-1:2006+A1:2009

IEC/EN 60825-1

This QUBE Fiber Laser is specifically designed to be a laser for incorporation or

integration into other equipment. As such, it is not required to, and does not, meet the

requirements for a stand-alone laser system as defined by IEC/EN 60825-1.

During installation it is vital that the laser hazard is fully managed. In particular, the Laser

Integrator is required to provision the engineering requirements detailed in IEC/EN

60825-1. These include, but are not limited to:

Provision of an additional protective housing which prevents human access or

exposure to laser radiation in excess of the AEL for Class 1 laser systems from the

output aperture. (IEC/EN 60825-1 section 4.2).

Provision of a remote interlock connector which when open-circuit prevents access

to laser radiation in excess of Class 1M (IEC/EN 60825-1 section 4.4).

Provision of a fail-safe or redundant audible or visible emission indicator at the

laser aperture if it is located more than 2m from the original emission indicator

(IEC/EN 60825-1 section 4.7).

Note that the visible alignment laser carries a Class 2 laser rating as defined by IEC/EN

60825-1.





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3.4.5 Europe: EMC Directive

This QUBE Fiber Laser falls outside the scope of the EMC Directive as it is intended

exclusively for an industrial assembly operation for incorporation into other apparatus.


system to comply with the directive. SPI Lasers has therefore designed for compliance to

parts of the standards listed below which are harmonised to the EMC Directive:

BS EN 55011:2009+A1:2010.

3.4.6 USA: CFR Title 21 Part 1040, Food And Drug Administration

This QUBE Fiber Laser falls outside the scope of 21 CFR part 1040 as 21 CFR part 1040

does not apply to laser products which are sold to a manufacturer for use as components.


system to comply with the regulation. SPI Lasers has therefore demonstrated compliance to

parts of the European standard:

IEC/EN 60825-1

Under Laser Notice 50, CDRH will not object to conformance with many sections of IEC

60825-1, as amended, as alternatives to comparable sections of 21 CFR §1040.10.

3.4.7 USA: CFR Title 47, Federal Communications Commission

This QUBE Fiber Laser is designed for compliance with:

FCC CFR47: §15.107 Conducted emission limits

FCC CFR47: §15.109 Radiated emission limits.

3.5 Labelling

Labels are placed on the top and rear panels of the QUBE Fiber Laser to warn of potential

hazards and to provide other useful information.

Table 1 to Table 2 below show the labels and give their locations.

Table 1 Safety, Explanatory and Compliance Labels

Rating plate label (Information may vary) (rear panel)





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Laser label (Information may vary) (rear panel)

Cautions label (top panel)

Laser hazard (optical connector)

Table 2 Information Labels

QUBE Fiber Laser identification (rear panel)

Address, Patents, WEEE and CE labels (rear panel)





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Water Flow and Return Labels (rear panel)

4 Document References

Document number Description

FS-S00138 QUBE Cased Fiber Laser Installation Drawing

SM-S00482 QUBE Fiber Laser Serial Interface Manual

SM-S00499 redPOWER Fiber Laser Serial Communications Protocol

SM-G00047 Introduction to the Laser Cutting Process

These documents may be downloaded by going to 'Customer Login' at the top right of SPI

Lasers’ home page: www.spilasers.com.

5 redPOWER QUBE Product Tour

The range of redPOWER QUBE Cased Fiber Lasers builds on many years of experience of

SPI Lasers in designing, developing and supplying fiber lasers into a wide range of industrial

laser processing applications. It gives laser integrators the capability to manufacture industrial

laser machines with maximum output power levels from 300W up to many kilowatts. QUBE

Fiber Lasers can be operated in continuous wave (CW) or modulated (CWM) modes for

applications enabled by fiber lasers and applications traditionally served by lamp pumped and

diode pumped solid-state lasers. A flexible control architecture has been implemented using a

combination of analogue, digital and logic user interfaces.

The optical power is generated by a PRISM Fiber Laser (FL) Module using SPI Lasers’

proprietary1 GTWave® active fiber technology and reliable pump diodes to produce a high

power, high brightness output. The output from the PRISM Fiber Laser Module is guided to

the Laser Integrator’s optics by a single mode (SM) or multimode (MM) delivery fiber supplied

with an industry standard PIPA-Q optical connector. A ruggedized conduit including SPI

Lasers’ Fiber Continuity Monitoring System (FCMS) protects the delivery fiber.

1 US 6,826,335, US 7,221,822, US 7,660,034, US 8,270,070, US 8,743,454 and granted patents in

other territories





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5.1 Key Parts

The redPOWER QUBE Cased Fiber Laser has many key parts. These are indentified in

Figure 2 and Figure 3. The names given in Figure 2 and Figure 3 are used throughout these

Instructions for Use.

Figure 2 redPOWER QUBE Cased Fiber Laser Key Parts





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Figure 3 redPOWER QUBE Cased Fiber Laser Key Parts





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5.2 Key Features

Figure 4 QUBE Cased Fiber Laser Key Features

A schematic block diagram of the redPOWER QUBE Cased Fiber Laser is shown in Figure

4. In Figure 4 the QUBE Fiber Laser is represented by the red rectangle and the cooling water

circuits are indicated schematically in blue.

Key features of this QUBE Fiber Laser are given below.





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PRISM Fiber Laser Module

Figure 5 redPOWER PRISM FL Module Key Features

A schematic block diagram of the PRISM FL Module is shown in Figure 5. The PRISM FL

Module is represented by the red rectangle and the cooling water circuit is indicated

schematically in blue.

o Optical Engine

The heart of the PRISM FL Module is the optical engine based on SPI Lasers’

proprietary GTWave® active fiber technology. GTWave takes the optical power of the

pump diodes to generate the high beam quality output of the QUBE Fiber Laser. It

requires no optical or mechanical adjustments.

o Pump Diodes

The pump diodes provide the power to the optical engine. Their high reliability means

that they will last for the life of the QUBE Fiber Laser

o Pump Drivers

The pump drivers control the drive current to the pump diodes allowing the output

power level of the QUBE Fiber Laser to be adjusted to different CW levels and to be

modulated over the specified power and frequency ranges.





25

Beam Delivery and PIPA-Q Optical Connector

The delivery fiber guides the laser power from the PRISM Fiber Laser Module to the

industry standard PIPA-Q optical connector and into the Laser Integrator’s optics. Single

mode and multimode delivery fibres, with different multimode core diameters, are

available. A ruggedized conduit including SPI Lasers’ Fiber Continuity Monitoring System

(FCMS) protects the delivery fiber. The PIPA-Q optical connector and ruggedized conduit

with FCMS are referred to as the beam delivery optic (BDO).

Machine Interface

The Machine Interface allows total operational integration of the laser into a production line

or cell. Options include Power Control, Parameter Selection and Alarm Reporting. The

function of each of the seven input and seven output signal lines can be configured by the

user. See Section 7.6.5 for more details.

FiberView Control Unit (FVCU)

The FVCU allows individual QUBE Fiber Lasers to be controlled either by using the Laser

Integrator’s interface or by using SPI Laser’s FiberView software. The FVCU also takes

the inputs from the sensors in the PRISM FL Module, the pump diode PSU and the safety

circuit and generates alarm and warning signals.

Extended Performance Range (XPR) mode

The XPR Mode allows the QUBE Fibre Laser to operate stably at lower powers so that, for

example, marking and cutting can be carried out consecutively on the same work piece. It

is activated through the LaserView GUI or by a serial command.

Fiber Continuity Monitoring System (FCMS)

The FCMS is a thin copper wire wound around the delivery fiber. Should the delivery fiber

fail, the escaping laser power fuses the FCMS wire and opens the circuit. Additionally, if

the temperature in the PIPA-Q optical connector is too high, or if the PIPA-Q connector is

not mated with the receiver the circuit will be opened.

Back reflection Monitoring and Protection

In some processes the laser power couples poorly into the work piece causing some of the

power to be reflected back into the optical connector and coupled into the delivery fiber.

This back reflection is most likely to occur

o when processing highly reflective materials such as brass, copper and

aluminium, especially at normal incidence

o when operating away from the focal point of the process head

o during the piercing phase of cutting.

This back reflected power has the potential to cause damage to the optical connector and

delivery fiber due to overheating. It may also to produce power instabilities due to

interaction with the optical engine.

The QUBE Fiber Laser is protected against back reflected power with active and passive

measures. Thus there is no need to employ additional optical components (such as optical





26

isolators), as is common with other fiber lasers, bringing cost and processing

disadvantages. The protection offered by the QUBE Fiber Laser comes from the design of

the optical connector and the use of sensors to monitor the back-reflected power. In

extreme cases, the QUBE Fiber Laser shuts itself down before damage occurs.

The optical connector incorporates the SPI Lasers patented2 technology, which channels

back-reflected power away from the delivery fiber via a capillary tube into a water cooled

beam dump, as shown in Figure 6, preventing damage to the delivery fiber or its

mechanical fixings.

Figure 6 PIPA-Q Optical Connector with Protection Against Back-Reflection

Thermal monitoring is also used within the optical connector and optical engine to protect

the QUBE Fiber Laser against back reflected power. If a temperature threshold is

exceeded a warning is generated. When the temperature falls below the threshold the

warning will clear. If higher temperature threshold is exceeded an alarm is generated and

the QUBE Fiber Laser will shut down. The QUBE Fiber Laser can be restarted when the

temperature falls below the threshold after the alarm has been cleared.

When processing highly reflective materials such as brass, copper and aluminium, or if in

doubt, contact SPI Lasers for applications advice.

Alignment Laser

An alignment laser provides a visible guide for the alignment of process heads. The

alignment laser is a Class 2 laser, meaning that it is safe to view the beam on a diffuse

work piece, although it is not safe to stare into the beam.

Power Supply Unit (PSU)

The Power Supply Unit (PSU) converts the AC electrical supply input to a low voltage DC

output to supply electrical power to the pump diodes in the PRISM FL Module and to the

FVCU.

2US5179610, GB2255199





27

Key switch

A key switch is located on the QUBE Fiber Laser front panel. In the OFF position emission

is disabled. In the ON position emission is enabled. The key is removable only in the OFF

position: laser radiation is not accessible when the key is removed.

Emergency Stop

A latching emergency stop button is located on the QUBE Fiber Laser front panel.

Operation of the emergency stop button puts the laser to OFF (in alarm state).

Indicators

Coloured LED indicators are fitted to the front panel to show the state of the QUBE Fiber

Laser.

o Power (White, Marked ~)

Indicator is lit if mains power is connected.

o Emission Indicator (Yellow, Marked )

Indicator is flashing if the QUBE Fiber Laser is in the STARTING state.

Indicator is lit if the QUBE Fiber Laser is in the STANDBY, RAMPING UP, ON

or RAMPING DOWN state.

Indicator is not lit if the QUBE Fiber Laser is in the OFF state.

o Fault (Red, Marked ?)

Indicator is flashing if there is an Alarm condition. The QUBE Fiber Laser will be

in the OFF state

Indicator is lit if there is an active Warning.

Indicator is not lit when there are no faults or warnings present.

Reset (Blue lit button)

Indicator is lit after the reset button has been pressed if no interlock alarms are present.

Indicator is not lit when mains power is first applied or restored after an interruption, or the

emergency stop has been pressed, or the remote interlock is open or the key switch is

OFF.

5.3 Software Tools

SPI Lasers’ Graphical User Interface, FiberView, allows Users to control this QUBE Fiber

Laser over a serial interface. Operation of the QUBE Fiber Laser using FiberView is described

in Section 9.





28

5.4 Control System Safety Functions 5.4.1 Overview

The laser control system provides six safety related functions. These are implemented in

electronic and electromechanical circuits and have been designed and validated to defined

safety performance levels, as specified in BS EN ISO 13849-1:2015, Safety of machinery.

Safety-related parts of control systems. General principles for design. These functions are

also monitored by the laser control system and reported via FiberView. The functions are as

follows.

5.4.2 Prevention of Unauthorised Use

This is provided by the key switch on the laser front panel. The laser can only be operated

when the key is in the ON position. The key is captive in the ON position and can only be

removed in the OFF position. The key switch is part of a dual channel category 4 circuit with

safety relay.

5.4.3 Prevention of Unexpected Start-Up

This is provided by a dual channel category 4 circuit with safety relay and the RESET

pushbutton on the laser front panel. The RESET button must be pressed after any of the

following events:

the electrical supply is switched on

the electrical supply is interrupted and restored

the Emergency Stop is operated and reset

the remote interlock is opened and restored

the key switch is turned off and then on

After pressing and releasing the RESET button, it will light-up blue to indicate the laser can be

started. The RESET function may also be performed by a remote, customer supplied, volt-free

contact connected to PL98.

5.4.4 Emergency Stop

This is provided by the red mushroom pushbutton on the laser front panel and a dual channel

category 4 circuit with safety relay. The Emergency Stop button latches when pressed and

should be turned clockwise to release. After releasing the Emergency Stop button, the RESET

button must be pressed before the laser can be restarted.





29

5.4.5 Remote Interlock

The Remote Interlock is for external interlocks such as additional Emergency Stop controls or

a motion control system. This is the Remote Interlock required by EN 60825-1:2007. It is a

dual channel category 4 system and requires two volt-free contacts connected to PL91.

5.4.6 E-Shutter

This function prevents laser output when the process cabinet door is open. It is a dual channel

category 4 system and requires a double pole interlock switch on the process cabinet door.

The function is provided by control of the pump diode PSUs and requires two volt free

contacts connected to PL81. See section 7.6.6 for more details.

5.4.7 FCMS

The internal monitoring of the FCMS will prevent laser output should the delivery fiber fail or if

the temperature in the PIPA-Q optical connector is too high, or if the PIPA-Q connector is not

mated with an appropriate receiver.

5.4.8 Performance Level of Safety Functions

The performance level of the six safety functions have been designed using

EN ISO 13849:2008 as a guide. Further information can be provided by request from SPI

Lasers.





30

5.5 Auxiliary Equipment

Figure 7 redPOWER QUBE Cased Fiber Laser with Auxiliary Equipment

Installation of the QUBE Fiber Laser within an integrated laser system requires the provision

of auxiliary equipment for control, cooling and safety as shown in Figure 7. Requirements for

the auxiliary equipment are given in the sections indicated below.

Chiller – Section 17.3.2

Mains Power Supply – Section 17.3.1

Cabinet door interlocks and an external E-stop can be connected to the QUBE Fiber Laser’s

internal safety circuit. It is the responsibility of the Laser Integrator to make the process

cabinet safe both as required in normal operation and after activation of the E-Stop.

SPI Lasers does not assume responsibility for specific integration decisions affecting the

safety and compliance to international standards of the Laser Integrator’s final laser product or

system.





31

5.6 Explanation of Order Codes

The redPOWER QUBE Cased Fiber Laser variants covered by these Instructions for Use

have order codes:

SP -

0300

0500

0750

1000

1500

- C - W -

020

050

100

-

10

15

20

- PIQ - 0

B 12 - 001 - 001

Po

we

r

Fib

er

BD

O L

en

gth

Ho

usin

g

Details of the options shown in bold are expanded in Table 3 below with reference to the

categories indicated above.

Table 3 Explanation of Order Code

Category Option Description Reference

Power Rated output power

0300 300W rated power





Fiber Core diameter of delivery fibre

020 Single mode 20µm Table 29

050 Multimode 50µm Table 30

100 Multimode 100µm Table 31

BDO length

10 10m -

15 15m -

20 20m -

Housing Length of housing

0 Standard sized housing. See section 19.1





32

Category Option Description Reference

B

Nonstandard sized

housing. See section 19.1

Not all combinations of options are available. Further information can be provided by request

from SPI Lasers.

6 Getting Started

6.1 Receiving and Inspection

Before installing or operating this QUBE Fiber Laser, you should:

Inspect the shipping container for damage

Inspect the QUBE Fiber Laser for signs of damage

Inspect the optical connector and conduit for any signs of damage

Confirm that the shipping carton contains all items on the shipping inventory list

including any accessories ordered as separate line items

Retain all packaging materials until the QUBE Fiber Laser has been commissioned. If

anything is missing or defective contact SPI Lasers. See Section 16 for contact details.

6.2 Unpacking and Handling




This QUBE Fiber Laser is heavy. To avoid the risk of personal injury or damage to the QUBE

Fiber Laser when lifting or moving, lift only using the loops on the steel transport frame and

use a trolley or similar mechanical assistance when moving. Do NOT use the BDO fiber

termination block or the water manifold as lifting handles.





33

Figure 8 QUBE Fiber Laser in Packing Case as Received

1. Remove plastic banding and unclip the straps surrounding the packing case. Remove

the top tray.

2. Open up the flaps.

3. Free the optical connector from its location in the top foam block and remove the top

foam block. (Do not remove the foam from the optical connector.)

Figure 9 Bubble Wrap and Top Foam Block Removed

4. Remove the foam packing pieces from the top of the QUBE Fiber Laser. Attach a four

point sling assembly with shackles to the loops at the top of the steel transport frame.





34

Figure 10 Four Point Sling Attached

5. Lift the QUBE Fiber Laser out of the packing case and lower it down onto a trolley for

onward transport.

Figure 11 QUBE Fiber Laser on Trolley

6. Put all foam blocks into the empty packing case and store for future use.

6.3 Unpacking the Beam Delivery Optic

Take care not to twist the conduit when uncoiling the BDO. Always unroll the conduit from the

free end, compensating for any twist that might occur. The conduit is very flexible and easily





35

bent when uncoiling. Ensure that is never bent to less than the minimum bend radius. Never

pull on the optical connector to untangle the conduit.

Particular care should be taken with regard to possible damage to the optical connector when

uncoiling the bean delivery optic as there is a tendency for the coil to spring apart which may

cause the optical connector to collide with other objects. Do not drop the optical connector or

allow it to hit surfaces or other objects.

7 Installation

7.1 Safety and Compliance During Installation




This QUBE Fiber Laser is heavy. To avoid the risk of personal injury or damage to the QUBE

Fiber Laser when lifting or moving, lift with two people and use a trolley or similar mechanical

assistance when moving over distance.

Before installation reference should be made to Section 3 regarding laser safety, electrical

safety, EMC and compliance. When installed, the QUBE Fiber laser and the additional

equipment required to operate it should not obstruct access to safety devices or impair their

operation.

It is recommended that installation is done in the sequence of the following sections, with

water connections made and checked before electrical connections are made.

7.2 Location and Environment

This QUBE Fiber Laser is designed for operation within the environment specified in Table 20.

Operating the QUBE Fiber Laser beyond the limits of the environmental specification may lead

to accelerated component ageing and performance degradation. As the QUBE Fiber Laser is

water-cooled care must be taken to ensure that it is always operated above the dew point so

that internal condensation is avoided. Refer to Figure 67 for a chart showing the relationship

between relative humidity, ambient air temperature and cooling water temperature for non-

condensing operation. To reduce the risk of internal condensation should the cooling water

temperature fall below the dew point, the QUBE Fibre Laser automatically regulates the flow

of cooling water to keep the internal surfaces above the dew point

This QUBE Fiber Laser should not be installed in a corrosive atmosphere.

This QUBE fiber laser should not be exposed to high levels of optical radiation, for instance

radiation from materials processing.

This QUBE Fiber Laser is sealed against dust and water ingress to IP52 to BS EN

60529:1992+A2:2013 with the exception of the electrical connectors which are rated IP50.





36

The laser integrator should ensure that when installed the QUBE Fiber Laser is not likely to be

exposed to water, for instance from cooling water leaks.

At least 200mm clear space must be provided in front of and behind the QUBE Fiber Laser to

allow the BDO and electrical cables to be routed correctly.

The optical connector shall be mounted in a protective housing which prevents human access

to laser radiation (including errant radiation) in excess of the AEL for class 1, for example a

housing meeting the requirements of EN 60825-4. The protective housing shall withstand

exposures under reasonably foreseeable single fault conditions without human intervention.

7.3 Mounting

The total weights of QUBE Fiber Lasers of different rated powers are given in Table 32. The

front panels of the QUBE Fiber Laser have the conventional 4U dimensions enabling the

QUBE Fiber Laser to be fitted into a standard 19” rack cabinet.

Mounting options are given in FS-S00138, QUBE Cased Fiber Laser Installation Drawing

Ensure that the conduit carrying the delivery fiber is not kinked or snagged. Follow the

guidance given in Section 7.7 and allow sufficient space for correct routing of the conduit.

Failure to do so may result in permanent damage to the delivery fiber.

7.4 Cooling Water Connections

CAUTION: Ensure an approved overpressure safety device is

installed when connecting this QUBE Fiber Laser to an external

chiller or factory water supply. This should comply with ISO4126-1

(or equivalent) and be rated to protect the QUBE Fiber Laser

against a flow or differential water pressure in excess of that

specified in Table 25.

CAUTION: If cooling water is allowed to enter this QUBE Fiber

Laser enclosure, do not use the QUBE Fiber Laser and contact SPI

Lasers immediately.

Failure to do so may result in electrical shock and damage to the

QUBE Fiber Laser.

7.4.1 QUBE Fiber Laser

This QUBE Fiber Laser must be operated with a source of chilled water as specified in Section

17.3 It is provided with connectors for 12mm diameter hoses at the rear. Hoses should be

routed, observing the specified bend radius, so that any leaking cooling water or condensation

will be kept away from the QUBE Fiber Laser, and provision should be made to shut down the

QUBE Fiber Laser and shut off the cooling water flow when a leak is detected.





37

The QUBE Fiber Laser includes a solenoid valve on the water inlet which regulates the flow of

cooling water, keeping the internal surfaces above the dew point to prevent condensation.

When using a chiller that does not include an internal bypass valve a bypass valve may be

required to enable uninterrupted operation of the chiller. Check valves suitable for use as

bypass valves are available in different sizes and with different connection types from

Swagelock and other vendors.

In order to fill and prime the QUBE Fiber Laser, the solenoid valve must be opened. This can

be done through FiberView or by sending a command over one of the digital interfaces.

With the key switch in the OFF position send the command to open the valve. With the valve

open and the chiller connected, switch on the chiller. Switch the chiller off and top up the water

level before operating the QUBE Fiber Laser for the first time.

Cooling water connections should be made and checked for leaks before making electrical

connections and powering up the QUBE Fiber Laser. To avoid potential water ingress the

electrical connectors should be capped while checking for leaks.

If an external cooling water leak occurs and water comes into contact with any of the electrical

connectors, allow the QUBE Fiber Laser to dry completely before operating.

Figure 12 Cooling Water Connections to QUBE Fiber Laser

7.4.2 PIPA-Q Optical Connector

It is essential that the PIPA-Q optical connector is adequately cooled with a source of clean,

chilled water in accordance with the specifications in Table 27. Operating the PIPA-Q optical

connector without an adequate flow of cooling water may result in catastrophic damage.

The inlet and outlet water connections are SMC MS-5HLH-6 type miniature hose elbows

suitable for 6mm LLDPE or polyurethane tubing.

The cooling circuit of the PIPA-Q optical connector should not be connected in series with the

manifold of the QUBE fibre Laser as the solenoid valve will interrupt the flow through the

PIPA-Q optical connector.





38

7.4.3 Cooling Water Fittings

SPI Lasers recommends that the commonly available push-on John Guest ‘Speedfit’ water

connections are used to connect the cooling circuits to the chilled water supply. John Guest

part numbers are given in Table 4. Alternative tubing from SMC is given in Table 5.

Table 4 Water Tubing

Description John Guest Part Number Illustration

12mm LLDPE Tubing (for

manifold) PE-1209-0100-*

6mm LLDPE Tubing (for

optical connector) PE-0604-0100M-*

Table 5 Water Tubing

Description SMC Part Number Illustration

12mm polyurethane tubing

(for manifold) TU1208**-**

6mm polyurethane tubing

(for optical connector) TU0604**-**

When using ‘Speedfit’ the water connection should be made as follows:

Cut the tube square and remove burrs and sharp edges. Ensure the outside diameter

is free of score marks. Push the tube into the fitting, to the tube stop.

Push the locking clip onto the fitting behind the collet

Pull on the tube to check it is secure. Test the system before use.

To disconnect the water connection:

Ensure the system is depressurized and drained

Remove the locking clip

Push the collet square against the fitting. With the collet held in this position the tube

can be removed.

If this QUBE Fiber Laser is to be transported to a new location, returned to SPI Lasers or

placed in storage it must first be disconnected from mains power, and then once the chiller

has been disconnected both the QUBE Fiber Laser and the optical connector must be drained

of all cooling water and blown through with compressed air.





39

7.5 FiberView Installation

Insert the medium supplied, which has the FiberView software on it, into the PC which will be

used to control the QUBE Fiber Laser. Run the setup.exe program. This will install FiberView

and necessary support programs.

Note: Check PC setting as follows: Control Panel – Regional & Language Options –

Advanced Tab – Language for non-Unicode Programs. Set this to English in drop down box.

Table 6 Laser Integrator Supplied PC – For Operating FiberView

Parameter Requirement

Operating System: Windows 7 and above

Minimum Hardware Specification: Processor 1GHz

Hard drive with 250MB free space

2GB RAM

RS-232 Interface Port or RJ45 Network Port

Up to 57,600 Baud.

Minimum screen resolution 1024 x 768

Interconnect cable connections RS-232:9-pin D-type, Null Modem

(Pins connected 2-3, 3-2, 5-5)

Ethernet: Cross-over cable for direct connection to

PC, Standard cable for LAN connection.

PC settings

Control Panel – Regional & Language

Options – Advanced Tab – Language

for non-Unicode Programs

English





40

7.6 Electrical Connections 7.6.1 General






For safe operation of this QUBE Fiber Laser the electrical connections given in the following

sections need to be made. All electrical connections should use cables of the shortest

practical length.

For safety, the QUBE Fiber Laser must be connected to an external protective grounding

system before any other electrical connections are made. The QUBE Fiber Laser is not ‘hot

pluggable’: all electrical connectors should be mated and secured in place before power is

applied.

All figures in this section indicate the pin positions when looking at the connector on the rear of

the QUBE Fiber Laser.

To operate this QUBE Fiber Laser the mains power connection and a control connection,

which can be digital (Ethernet, RS-232 or RS-485) must be made.

7.6.2 Connection Locations

All User connections are located at the rear panel of the QUBE Fiber Laser as shown in

Figure 13 (The cooling water manifold is not shown.) They are described in more detail in

Table 7.





41

Figure 13 Interface connectors

Table 7 Interface Connectors

ID Function Connector

Description

Compatible Mating

Connector

Reference

Section

- Mains Power Internal terminal block Bare Wire 7.6.3

PL1 RS-232 Serial Port

Control Interface

9-way D-Type male

connector

9-way D-Type female

connector 7.6.3

PL5 Machine Interface 25-way D-Type male

connector

25-way D-Type female

connector 7.6.5

PL81

Process Cabinet

Door Interlock

Switches

4 way 5.08mm pitch

connector

Phoenix Contact part

number 1778001. 7.6.6

PL82 Power Supply

Remote Control

8 way 5.08mm pitch

connector


number 1778043. 7.6.6

PL91 External Interlock

and Remote Reset

6 way 5.08mm pitch

connector


number 1778027. 7.6.7

PL96 Cooler Interlock 2 way 5.08mm pitch

connector


number 1777989 7.6.8

PL98 Remote Indicators 10 way 5.08mm pitch

connector


number 1778069 7.6.9

SK2 Ethernet RJ-45 RJ-45 7.6.10





42

ID Function Connector

Description

Compatible Mating

Connector

Reference

Section

SK3 Reserved - -

Error!

eference

source not

found.

SK95 FCMS 9-way D-Type female

connector

9-way D-Type male

connector provided by

SPI Lasers

7.6.11

SK99 SPI Lasers’ use

only - - 7.6.12

7.6.3 Mains Power Connection

CAUTION: There is no Mains power isolation switch on this QUBE

Fiber Laser. The QUBE Fiber Laser should only be connected to a

switched electricity supply which can be isolated.

The electrical supply connection should be made only by suitably qualified personnel. The

User should provide a supply cord of suitable length, rating and type and which meets local

regulations with wire sizes meeting the requirements given in Table 8.

Table 8 Electrical Supply Cord Wire Sizes

Rated Power Units

300 500 750 1000 1500 W

Suggested minimum wire size3 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 4 mm2

Suggested minimum wire size3 15 14 13 12 10 AWG

Maximum wire size 10 10 10 10 10 mm2

Maximum wire size 8 8 8 8 8 AWG

The supply cord and the QUBE Fiber Laser should be protected against overload and short-

circuit by circuit breakers or fuses in the electrical installation of the building. An isolation

switch should also be provided. The supply rating is given in Section 17.3.1. The QUBE Fiber

Laser must be grounded.

To fit the supply cord the lower cover must be removed. Place the QUBE Fiber Laser upside-

down on a stable surface and remove the 18 screws, six on each side and six on the bottom

3 Actual wire size required depends on local and national regulations, insulation type, installation

method and ambient temperature





43

which secure it. Prepare the supply cord by removing about 60mm of the outer insulation and

8mm to 10mm of the inner insulation from each of the three conductors. Pass the end of the

supply cord through the cable gland and connect the ground wire to the green and yellow

terminal. If the supply has distinct live (hot) and neutral conductors, connect the live to the

grey terminal and the neutral to the blue terminal. If the supply does not have distinct live and

neutral conductors (e.g. 120-0-120V supplies, or two phases of a 208V 3 phase supply), then

it does not matter which way round the conductors are connected. Bootlace ferrules may be

used if desired. Tighten the terminal screws to 1.5Nm to 1.8Nm. Tighten the cable gland,

ensuring there is no strain on the individual conductors. Replace the cover and 18 screws.

The finished connection is shown in Figure 14. The wire colours shown are standard in

Europe, other territories may use different colours.

Check the continuity of the ground connection before switching on the supply.

Figure 14 Internal Connections for Electrical Supply

7.6.4 PL1 – Serial Port Control Interface

A cable with standard 9-way D-plug is used to connect the QUBE Fiber Laser to the system

controller or a PC. The interface operates with signal levels defined by the RS-232

specification. The pin-out is shown in Table 9.

Table 9 Serial Port Connections

Pin RS-232 Connections

2 Receive Data input (RX)

3 Transmit Data Output (TX)

5 Ground

Pin connections are 2-3, 3-2, 5-5, with no other connections necessary. If connection is made

directly from a PC to the QUBE Fiber Laser a crossover (NULL MODEM) cable should be

used.

RS-232 is the preferred standard. If longer cable runs are required than allowed for by the

RS-232 standard, then an RS-232 to RS-422 converter can be used, but this will be the

responsibility of the user.





44

7.6.5 PL5 – Machine Interface

The Machine Interface connection is made through PL5 at the rear of the QUBE Fibre Laser,

via a 25 way D-Type Plug (male). It consists of seven inputs and seven outputs. Each

input/output can be software configured to perform a specific function selected from a list of

available functions. The default configuration should be suitable for the majority of

applications, but the configurable flexibility allows Laser Integrators to tailor the interface to

their application if required.

To prevent operational problems caused by ground loops, the Machine Interface I/O hardware

is opto-isolated and requires an external 24V supply, connected as described in section

7.6.5.1, in order for the outputs to function. The configured output functionality is available in

both Local and Remote operating modes, although the Machine Interface must be provided

with 24V to power the opto-isolation.

Some of the functionality for the input/output is multiplexed depending on the processing

mode, for example; the Laser ON / Process Cycle Start changes functionality depending on

whether the QUBE Fiber Laser is processing in parameter sets or process cycle mode.

Please read all of this section before using the Machine Interface to be familiar with all its

operation.

7.6.5.1 Machine Interface Supply

The Machine Interface must be powered by a power supply in range of +15 to +30V (typically

+24V) capable of delivering 200mA. Power is provided by connecting the external supply

between PEXT and GNDEXT on the pin allocations shown in Table 10. Two PEXT and

GNDEXT connections are provided for convenience. Each pair is linked internally, and

normally only one of the pair needs to be connected to the external supply. Nominal load for

each input is 5mA. The maximum current capability of each output is 50mA.

7.6.5.2 Default Configuration

Table 10 below shows the default functions for each pin connection on PL5.

Note: the functionality of IN0 – IN6 and also OUT0 – OUT6 can be re-configured using the

FiberView control software.

The External Trigger Input (IN6 in default setting) can be reprogrammed similarly to the other

Inputs. However, if a Trigger input is required it is recommended to use Pin 16 as the

hardware behind this connection is optimised.

The Machine Interface optimised Trigger (IN6) can operate at up to 50kHz. At the maximum

frequency the control system will accommodate up to a 50% duty cycle comfortably. However,

if one of the other inputs (IN0 – IN5) is used, there will be a maximum operating frequency of

4.7kHz for a 50% duty cycle, beyond which input edges may be missed. This maximum

frequency will increase slightly as the duty cycle is reduced.

Note: Do not assign Laser ON function (ID2, Table 10) to Trigger Input Pin 16 due to the high

speed nature of this input potentially causing internal timing conflicts.





45

Table 10 PL5 Machine Interface Pin Out

PIN # I/O PIN NAME DEFAULT FUNCTION

1 PEXT PEXT External 24 Vdc

2 PEXT PEXT External 24 Vdc

3 I IN0 Laser Start

4 I IN1 Laser ON / Process Cycle Start

5 I IN3 Unused

6 I IN5 Unused

7 O OUT1 Laser ON / Process Cycle Active

8 O OUT3 Alarm Status

9 O OUT5 Unused

10 O AOUT Laser Power Analogue Feedback

11 AI AIN+ Analogue Input Demand Positive

12 - - -

13 I COMMON Digital Input Common Return path

14 GNDEXT GNDEXT External 0 Vdc


16 I IN6 Trigger Input (Recommended)

17 I IN2 Process Cycle Step

18 I IN4 Alarm Reset

19 O OUT0 Laser STANDBY

20 O OUT2 Remote Status

21 O OUT4 Warning

22 O OUT6 Process Cycle Wait


24 AI AIN- Analogue Input Negative

25 - - -

Note:

The two PEXT 24V DC input connections are linked together internally. There is no

preference for connecting the 24V DC supply, and it is not necessary to use both.

The three GND EXT 0V DC input connections are linked together internally. There is

no preference for connecting the 0V DC supply, and it is not necessary to use all three.





46

7.6.5.3 Connection Configurations

The Machine Interface inputs and outputs are provided as sourcing only. Figure 15 below

shows the configuration and connection method.

Figure 15 Machine Interface Connections Circuits





47

Figure 16 PL5 Programmable Inputs





48

Figure 17 PL5 Programmable Outputs

7.6.5.4 Basic Operation

With the basic connections above, supplying 24V to the inputs will assert them.

In order for the QUBE Fiber Laser to be fully controlled through the Machine Interface it is

necessary to put it in Remote Control mode via FiberView. This is done by clicking on the

control button (silhouette of a Man) on the main FiberView toolbar, which turns into a Cog to

indicate that Remote Control is selected. The control status indicator on FiberView will turn

red, and the text alongside it will change to REMOTE.

The necessary connections (based on the default configuration) to start using the QUBE Fiber

Laser in Remote Control mode are:

Laser Start (IN0, Pin 3)

This takes the QUBE Fiber Laser from the OFF state to the STANDBY (ready) state.

If this input is clear when entering Remote Control and the QUBE Fiber Laser is in the

ON state, the QUBE Fiber Laser will go to the OFF state.





49

If this input is set when entering Remote Control and the QUBE Fiber Laser is in the

ON state, it will remain switched to STANDBY.

Clearing this input while in Remote Control will put the QUBE Fiber Laser in the OFF

state.

However, if this function is un-configured from the Machine Interface, the QUBE Fiber Laser

can be started using serial communications or FiberView in Remote or Local Control mode.

The Machine Interface would then be used for the Laser ON command.

Laser ON (IN1, Pin 4)

This takes the QUBE Fiber Laser from the STANDBY state to the ON state. A positive edge is

required for this input to act. If the QUBE Fiber Laser is not in the STANDBY state the input is

ignored.

If the QUBE Fiber Laser is in the ON state, and is put into Remote Control with IN0 set

and IN1 set, the state will remain the ON state.

Trigger Source Select

This needs to be defined for one of the Inputs and set to select external Trigger. If it is clear,

the internal Trigger will be used. When using external Trigger exclusively, this input needs to

be held high continuously. If this function is not defined on the Machine Interface the active

parameter set setting is used.

7.6.5.5 Laser Control Inputs

The QUBE Fiber Laser can be controlled in Remote Mode by using the inputs on the Machine

Interface. Ensure Remote Control Status is true before using any of the inputs. Connection

details are shown in Table 10.

Table 11 shows the full list of functions that can be configured to apply to any of IN0-IN6.

Table 11 Laser Inputs

ID Input Function Description Comments

0 Not supported

1 Laser Start In Remote Control state:

False: Takes the QUBE Fiber Laser to OFF

True: Takes the QUBE Fiber Laser from OFF

to STANDBY

2 Laser ON / Process Cycle Start False: Sets QUBE Fiber Laser to STANDBY

or stops a defined process cycle

True: Sets QUBE Fiber Laser to ON or starts

a defined process cycle (if laser already in

STANDBY)





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ID Input Function Description Comments

3 Trigger / Gate Input

Recommended Configuration: Use

Input 6.

False: No laser Output.

True: Gated Mode: Laser output.

Triggered Mode: Laser pulse on rising edge.

4 Trigger Source Select (Internal /

External)

False: QUBE Fiber Laser runs at pulse rate

defined by internal parameters.

True: QUBE Fiber Laser is Triggered or

gated by Trigger Input

5 Process Cycle Step Advances to next process step on rising

edge.

6 Alarm Reset Resets Alarm condition on rising edge.

7 Strobe Read parameter set / process cycle data

(ID8-ID14) on rising edge.

8 Parameter Set / Process Cycle Select

(Bit 0)

Parameter set or Process cycle can be

selected using these inputs. Only operational

in Remote Control.


(Bit 1)


(Bit 2)


(Bit 3)


(Bit 4)


(Bit 5)

14 Alignment Laser Demand False: Alignment Laser OFF

True: Alignment Laser active

15 Scanner Start Input

16 Safe Mode Recovery Start

17 Not supported

18 XPR Mode Enable





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7.6.5.6 Status Outputs

Status outputs are provided at the Machine Interface. Connection details are shown in Figure

15. Table 12 shows the full list of functions that can be configured to apply to any of OUT0 -

OUT6 as shown in Table 10.

Table 12 Laser Status Outputs

ID Output Function Description Comments

0 Not supported

1 Laser STANDBY False: QUBE Fiber Laser OFF or ON

True: QUBE Fiber Laser in STANDBY

2 Laser ON / Process Cycle Active False: QUBE Fiber Laser OFF/STANDBY or

Process Cycle Stopped

True: QUBE Fiber Laser ON or Process Cycle

Running

3 Remote Control Status False: LOCAL control Mode

True: Remote Control Mode

4 Sync Synchronised True with duration of laser pulsing.

5 Process Cycle Wait False: Process cycle running or in Autostep

mode.

True: Waiting for Process Cycle Step input

6 Processing Mode False: Normal Mode

True: Process Cycles Mode

7 Alarm False: Alarm not present

True: Alarm present

8 Warning False: Warning not present

True: Warning present

9 Not supported

10 Acknowledge False: Data not accepted or strobe off

True: Data accepted

11 Parameter Set / Process Cycle

Selected (Bit 0)

Provides monitor output to confirm parameter set

or process cycle selected


Selected (Bit 1)


Selected (Bit 2)





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ID Output Function Description Comments


Selected (Bit 3)


Selected (Bit 4)


Selected (Bit 5)

17 Scanner Start Output

18 Ready To Start Connected with no alarms

19 Emission Indicator

20 Not supported

21 Safe Mode Recovery Active

22 Not supported

23 Not supported

24 Not supported

25 Not supported

26 Not supported

27 Burn Back / Safe Mode detected True: Condition detected

False: Condition not detected.

28 Laser Over Temperature True: One of monitored temperatures above

Alarm level.

29 Not supported

30 Not supported

31 Not supported

32 -

41

Process Cycle Active Step

(Bits 0 - 9)

42 Not supported Not supported

43 XPR Mode Enabled

7.6.5.7 Analogue Input

The waveform applied between Pins 11 and 24 can be used to control the demanded output

power. This is referred to as External Power Control (EPC). The Machine Interface needs to

have an external power supply connected between Pins 1 or 2 and 14 or 15 for this function to

operate. The active pulse shape must also be set into EPC mode using FiberView. (Refer to

Section 9.3.8.)





53

There are two modes for this function:

Absolute Mode: A signal level between 0V and 10V will linearly control the demand level of the

active pulse shape between 0% and 100% of the overall demand level.

Relative Mode: A signal level between 0V and 10V will linearly control the demand level of the

active pulse shape between 0% and 100% of the set demand level for that pulse shape.

7.6.5.8 Analogue Output

The output on Pin 10 can be used to remotely monitor the output power. This signal is

calibrated linearly from 0V to 10V, to read 10V for the rated output power of the QUBE Fiber

Laser.

The Machine Interface needs to have an external power supply connected for this function to

operate.

This signal is either the CW power when in CW mode or a time averaged value when in

modulated mode. It is the same value as displayed on the power meter panel of FiberView.

7.6.5.9 Diagnostic Outputs

Diagnostic outputs are grouped into the following:

Alarms, which stop operation.

Warnings, which indicate a problem but allow continued operation.

The presence of an alarm or warning is indicated by the transition of the ‘Alarm Status’ or

‘Warning Status’ output from false to true.

Alarm status will remain present until the alarm has been manually reset.

Warning status will remain present until the condition causing the warning has cleared. This

may not require manual intervention.

The actual alarm or warning codes can be read remotely, if required, using the Serial

Interface.

7.6.6 PL81 – Process Cabinet door interlock switches and PL82 – Power Supply Remote Control

The QUBE Fiber Laser provides an ‘E-shutter’ safety function which puts the QUBE Fiber

Laser into a safe state if the process cabinet door is open at the same time as a voltage is

present at the pump diode PSU outputs. The E-Shutter is a dual channel circuit, using two

different types of CLPD, programmed independently using different software tools, that

conforms to EN ISO 13849-1:2015, (Safety of machinery. Safety-related parts of control

systems. General principles for design) category 4, performance level d (PL d).

The E-shutter monitors two process cabinet door interlock switches on PL81 and the actual

pump diode PSU outputs during normal operation and it also checks the process cabinet door

interlock switches and the pump diode PSU output monitoring circuits for faults.

The E-Shutter will shut the laser down via the emergency stop safety function if the door is

opened while the PSUs are enabled.





54

If one process cabinet door interlock switch opens and recloses without the other interlock

switch opening, this is detected as a fault. If the pump diode PSU outputs do not agree with

the enable command within a 1 second time window, this is also detected as a fault.

The operating time of the E-Shutter is determined by the time taken to discharge the

capacitors at the output of the pump diode PSU through the dump resistors, and is typically

500ms. The E-Shutter circuits confirm that the pump diode PSU outputs have been

discharged to a voltage which is too low to operate the laser diodes. The E-Shutter has a

minimum cycle time specification of 5 seconds. Each time it operates the energy in the

capacitors must be dissipated by the dump resistors. Repeated cycling at less than the

minimum cycle time could overheat the resistors.

The connections to PL81 are shown in Figure 18.

Figure 18 Connections to PL81





55

Two door interlock switches must be used. These are supplied from the internal 24V DC

supply and should be “volt-free” contacts. One interlock switch is connected to the positive

side of the supply and the other to the negative. This allows wiring faults to be detected,

however it means that two interlock switches are always required. A single interlock switch

cannot be used to control both inputs. Dual interlock switches are available specifically for

process cabinet safety interlocks from several manufacturers, including Allen Bradley, Pilz,

Rockwell (GuardMaster) and Schneider (Telemecanique). The 24V supply is SELV and must

be appropriately separated from non-SELV circuits. Both interlock switches should open when

the door is opened. The safety function monitors both interlock switches and if one interlock

switch opens and closes again without the other interlock switch opening, the safety circuit

detects this as a door interlock switch fault.

If process cabinet door interlock switches are not used, PL81 pin 1 should be linked to pin 2

and pin 3 should be linked to pin 4.

WARNING: Defeating interlocks could result in exposure to

hazardous levels of radiation.

It is the responsibility of the Laser Integrator to ensure that no

hazardous levels of radiation are emitted when unsafe to do so.

PL82 comprises a PSU enable input and PSUs safe and PSUs ready status outputs. The

input and outputs are isolated from the laser control circuits, but there is also access to the

internal laser 24V DC supply. The input and outputs are nominally 24V DC and should be

considered as SELV. The isolation is provided only to prevent ground loops. The input current

is nominally 10mA. The status outputs are not polarity sensitive and are rated up to 30V DC

and 100mA.

The PSUs are enabled when the PSU enable input is on.

The PSUs safe output indicates that all the pump diode power supplies are disabled and their

output voltage has discharged to a level that is too low to cause output from the pump diodes.

The PSUs ready output indicates that all the pump diode power supplies are enabled and are

at full voltage ready to operate the pump diodes.

The safe and ready outputs are normally complementary, with a small delay between them.

The E-Shutter incorporates timers that monitor the safe and ready signals. If the PSUs take an

excessive time to enable or disable, this is detected as a fault.

Typical connections to PL82 are shown in Figure 19 and Figure 20

Figure 19 shows connections to a control contact and indicator lamps using the laser 24V DC.

Figure 20 shows connections to a PLC using an external 24V DC supply.





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Figure 19 Typical connections to PL82 (control contact and indicator lamps)





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Figure 20 Typical connections to PL82 (PLC)

PL81 is a 4 way 5.08mm pitch connector. A suitable mating socket is Phoenix Contact part

number 1778001.

PL82 is an 8 way 5.08mm pitch connector. A suitable mating socket is Phoenix Contact part

number 1778043.

Both accept wire sizes from 0.25mm2 to 2.5mm2 or 24AWG to 12AWG, the strip length is 7mm

and the tightening torque is 0.5-0.6Nm.

The normal operating sequence would be:

Close process cabinet doors

Enable PSU

Wait for PSU ready, about 500ms

Enable laser output via machine interface PL5, function IN 1

Laser process takes place

Disable laser output via machine interface PL5, IN1

Disable PSU





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Wait for PSU safe, about 500ms

Open process cabinet doors

This is shown in the timing diagram Figure 21.

Figure 21 Timing diagram

7.6.7 PL91 – External Interlock and Remote Reset

The QUBE Fiber Laser has a high integrity emergency stop safety function. It is a dual

channel circuit, requiring two volt-free contacts, that conforms to EN ISO 13849-1:2015,

category 4, performance level e (PL e). It provides the Remote Interlock required for

compliance to EN 60825-1:2007.

PL91 provides access to this circuit and provides a 24V DC supply. The 24V supply is SELV

and must be appropriately separated from non-SELV circuits. External controls or interlocks

must be “volt free“ and dual channel. The safety function monitors both channels. If one

channel opens and closes again without the other opening, the safety circuit will detect this as

a fault. The fault can be reset by opening and closing the other channel.

The QUBE Fiber Laser also has a manual reset safety function to prevent unexpected start

up. The reset must be operated after applying the electrical supply and after operation of the

emergency stop, key switch or external interlock. A reset is also required if the E-Shutter





59

detects a fault. A reset is performed either by pressing and releasing the reset button on the

front panel or by closing and then opening the reset circuit on PL91. After a successful reset,

the reset button will light up blue.

Typical connections to PL91 are shown in Figure 22.

Figure 22 Typical Connections to PL91

If the external interlock is not used, PL91 pin 3 should be linked to pin 4 and pin 5 should be

linked to pin 6.


number 1778027. It accepts wire sizes from 0.25mm2 to 2.5mm2 or 24AWG to 12AWG, the

strip length is 7mm or 0.25" and the tightening torque is 0.5-0.6Nm.

7.6.8 PL96 – Cooler Interlock

PL96 provides a general purpose, single channel interlock, which may be used to prevent the

laser operating if the external cooling water supply is off or above the maximum temperature.

PL96 also provides a 24V DC supply which is SELV and must be appropriately separated

from non-SELV circuits. External controls or interlocks must be “volt free“. The current is

nominally 5mA.The interlock is not a high integrity safety function and should not be used to

protect Users from laser emission.

Figure 23 shows a typical connection.





60

Figure 23 A Typical Connection to PL96

If the cooler interlock is not used, PL96 pin 1 should be linked to pin 2.




7.6.9 PL98 – Remote Indicators

The QUBE Fiber Laser provides outputs for indicators, or for use as inputs to a user supplied

control system, on PL98. The outputs are nominally 24V DC with a maximum rated current of

100mA. The 24V DC supply is provided by the laser and is SELV. The connections to PL98

must be appropriately separated from non-SELV circuits.

There are 5 outputs:

Reset

This output is on when the emergency stop safety function has been reset.

It duplicates the blue lit reset button on the front panel.

Emission

This output is on when the system is capable of emitting laser output.

It duplicates the yellow emission indicator on the front panel and will flash for a few seconds

when the laser goes into standby mode and then change to continuously on.

Fault

This output is on when the system is in an alarm or warning state. It duplicates the red fault

indicator on the front panel. It flashes for an alarm and is on continuously for a warning.





61

PSU safe

This output is on when all the pump diode power supplies are disabled and discharged. It

indicates that the process cabinet door may be opened.

PSU ready

This output is on when all the pump diode power supplies are enabled and are at full voltage

ready to operate the pump diodes.

Figure 24 shows a typical connection

Figure 24 A Typical Connection to PL98








62

7.6.10 SK2 – Ethernet

The Ethernet port can be used to connect the QUBE Fiber Laser to a LAN or the network port

on a single PC. The port uses standard RJ45 connectors. A standard straight through cable is

required for connection to a LAN. For direct connection to a PC a cross-over cable needs to

be used if the PC network card doesn’t support auto cross over detection.

FiberView version 3.5.2 or higher needs to be used for control of the QUBE Fiber Laser over

an Ethernet connection.

7.6.11 SK95 – FCMS

For correct operation, the plug supplied fitted into SK95 must not be removed.

7.6.12 SK99

SK99 is provided for use by SPI Lasers service personnel only.

7.6.13 Minimum Interface Connections

Initially, the minimum connections to allow the laser to operate will be to the Process cabinet

door interlock switches connector (PL81), the External Interlock and Remote Reset connector

(PL91), the cooler interlock, (PL96) and a Serial (PL1) or Ethernet, (SK2) port. The serial

interface should be connected to a PC which has FiberView software installed.

The minimum hardware connections needed to operate the laser are shown in Table 13.

Table 13 Minimum Interface Connection

Interface Condition

PL81 If process cabinet door interlock switches are not used, PL81 pin 1 should be

linked to pin 2 and pin 3 should be linked to pin 4.

PL91 If the external interlock is not used, PL91 pin 3 should be linked to pin 4 and pin

5 should be linked to pin 6.

PL96 If the cooler interlock is not used, PL96 pin 1 should be linked to pin 2.

PL1 Connect one interface to FiberView

SK2





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7.7 Routing the Beam Delivery Optic

CAUTION: If damage to the conduit or optical connector is

suspected, stop using the QUBE Fiber Laser and contact SPI

Lasers immediately.

Failure to do so may result in exposure to harmful levels of

radiation.

Delivery fibers and optical connectors are precision parts.

Avoid contamination and mechanical stress when handling.

Avoid shocks and impacts on optical connectors

Avoid pulling, twisting and over-bending of the conduit

Beam delivery optics are less robust than electrical cables, although superficially they look

similar. If fibers are treated and handled as electrical cables, they will fail prematurely. Fiber

replacement can be both time-consuming and expensive.

Avoid kinking and twisting the conduit by unrolling the coil, rather than pulling it straight.

If the BDO is led through openings, the openings must be sufficiently large that the optical

connector with protector can be led through without applying any force.

In static applications (where BDO and process head do not move):

The BDO may be routed alongside power, water or control cables provided these do

not impose stresses or strains on the conduit.

The conduit must not be bent tighter than the minimum bend radius at any point along

the route. (Refer to Table 33.)

The maximum tensile loading should not be exceeded. (Refer to Table 33.)

The conduit should be supported at points along its length, at intervals no greater than

3m, to prevent gross movements under its own weight during the production

sequence.

At the support points, the conduit should be held using mechanical parts which prevent

bends tighter than the minimum bend radius and which do not apply a compressive

force on the conduit.

The external surface of the conduit should be prevented from rubbing or abrading at

support points or on any other parts in the workstation (e.g. jigs, fixtures, production

parts, workstation walls, floors, robot parts).

In dynamic applications (where BDO and process head move), additionally:

The BDO must be routed separately from power, water and control cables.





64

The BDO should be held off the floor and routed along a path so that the conduit is not

bent tighter than the minimum bend radius at any point along its length all through the

production sequence.

The conduit should never be pulled tight at any point along its length during the

production sequence.

If a balancer is used, tie the conduit to the rope of the balancer so that:

o The rope takes the tensile loading and not the optical connector.

o The conduit has sufficient slack for all kinds of robot motions without bending

below the minimum bend radius.

Acceleration and deceleration of the BDO and process head should be kept to a

minimum consistent with achieving process cycle time.

At BDO installation and periodically during operation (e.g. once per shift), a dry run of

the production sequence should be made. The BDO motion should be checked to

ensure that the routing still complies with the points of good practice above.

7.8 Connecting and Disconnecting the PIPA-Q

Optical Connector 7.8.1 Precautions

CAUTION: The protective cap attached to the optical connector is

intended to protect the connector from contamination during shipping and

when the QUBE Fiber Laser is not in use for extended periods. It

SHOULD NOT be treated as a beam stop.

Operating the QUBE Fiber Laser with the protective cap in place may

result in damage to the QUBE Fiber Laser. In addition, due to the

elevated temperatures associated with operating the QUBE Fiber Laser at

high power with the protective cap in place, contact may lead to personal

injury.

CAUTION: The protective tape attached to the optical connector is

intended to protect the connector from contamination during shipping.

Operating the QUBE Fiber Laser with the protective tape in place may

result in damage to the QUBE Fiber Laser.

Each optical connector change incurs the risk of contaminating or damaging the connector.

Therefore optical connectors should only be changed when required and the local

environment should be as clean and dust free as possible to avoid introducing debris into the

process head.





65

The protective cap and protective tape should only be removed after the BDO is routed and

immediately before the optical connector is inserted into the process head. Remove the

protective cap slowly holding the optical connector downwards to avoid contamination settling

on the window.

Do not grease optical connectors

Keep the optical connector facing downwards when uncovered and not installed.

Do not touch the window

The optical connector must not be subjected to forces caused by dropping, impacting or

collision with heavy objects.

7.8.2 Optical connectors must be inspected, and cleaned if necessary, before being replaced. See Section 13.3.

The PIPA-Q optical connector should be installed as follows:

Carefully route the BDO following the instructions given in Section 7.7.

Carefully clean any dust or debris away from the receiver of the of the process head,

collimating optics or adapter, taking care that nothing gets into the process head.

Position the process head so that the receiver for the optical connector is horizontal.

Remove the sealing plug from the receiver.

Figure 25 PIPA-Q with protective cap

Remove the protective cap, shown in Figure 25, from the optical connector. It can be

pulled straight off.





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Figure 26 Connector before removal of protective tape

Remove the protective tape, shown in Figure 26, from the connector.

Inspect the optical connector for contamination using suitable magnification and

illumination, and clean if necessary following the instructions in Section 13.3.

Figure 27 Red Dots Aligned

Install the optical connector into the receiver using the 2-step bayonet fitting on the front of

the connector. Ensure the red dot on the optical connector is aligned with the two red dots

on the receiver (refer to Figure 27)

Locking Step 1:

Fully insert the optical connector (Figure 28) and turn the locking sleeve through about a

tenth of a turn in a clockwise direction

Locking Step 2:

Pull the sleeve out by 2mm

Whilst in the pulled-out position rotate the locking sleeve until hand tight

Tighten by hand only





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Figure 28 Connector Inserted into Receiver

7.8.3 Disconnecting the PIPA-Q Optical Connector from the Process Head

Each optical connector change incurs the risk of contaminating or damaging the optical

connector. Therefore optical connectors should only be changed when required and the local

environment should be as clean and dust free as possible to avoid introducing debris into the

receiver.

Using clean, dry compressed air or nitrogen, blow away any dust from the area where the

optical connector enters the receiver.

Using a clean cloth or tissue, wipe down the area where the optical connector enters the

receiver to remove the last traces of dust or debris.

Remove the PIPA-Q optical connector from the receiver using the 2-step process

Unlocking Step 1:

Pull the locking sleeve out by 2mm

Unlocking Step 2:

Turn the locking sleeve through 37° in an anticlockwise direction and remove the optical

connector

Immediately after the optical connector is removed the protective cap must be refitted. The

process head entry way should also be plugged to prevent dust entry.





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8 Operating Instructions

WARNING: Follow the procedures and instructions described in the

following section.

Failure to do so may lead to harmful radiation exposure resulting in

personal injury and damage to the equipment.

This section describes the operation of the QUBE Fiber Laser. Before proceeding refer to all

relevant sections in these Instructions for Use covering safety, environmental and electrical

specifications, component inspection and QUBE Fiber Laser installation.

In this section the names of electrical connections are given in bold.

8.1 Before Operation 8.1.1 Risk Assessment and Checks

Carry out and implement a risk assessment covering personnel and the environment

appropriate to the installation and operation of the integrated laser system.

Ensure that the protective cap and protective tape are removed from the optical

connector.

Ensure that the optical connector is securely mounted

Ensure that the beam is directed towards the work piece, a power meter or an

appropriate beam dump.

Ensure all laser safety precautions are adhered to.

Ensure a supply of chilled water is connected to the QUBE Fiber Laser in accordance

with Section 7.4.

Ensure a supply of chilled water is connected to the optical connector in accordance

with Section 17.3.

Ensure the electrical connections are made in accordance with Section 7.5.

8.1.2 User Training

All Users must be officially trained and authorised within their respective organisations. They

must also be fully conversant with the following:

Laser hazards, safety procedures and correct use of related safety equipment.

Hazards related to the use of Lasers for materials processing, prescribed safety

procedures and related equipment.

The contents of these Instructions for Use, and therefore the safety provisions in it.





69

8.2 Powering the QUBE Fiber Laser On and Off

The Power ON Sequence is:

Ensure external water supply is ON.

Set the external laser isolator switch to ON.

Verify that the white power indicator is lit.

Turn the key switch to the ON position.

Press and release the reset button.

Verify the reset button is lit blue.

Verify the fault indicator is not lit or flashing.

If the Laser is being controlled via the FiberView programme, then:

Select the Standby button on the Toolbar. The yellow EMISSION indicator will flash

several times. The system will commence the STARTING sequence: the Standby

Button will turn grey and the SYSTEM indicator (Laser Status Area) will turn yellow to

indicate that the system is in the STANDBY state.

Select the On button to operate the laser. The SYSTEM indicator (Laser Status Area)

will turn red to indicate that the system is in the ON state.

The Power OFF sequence is:

Click on the OFF Button (on FiberView Toolbar). In the Status indicator area the

'System' indicator will turn green and the adjacent message will be 'OFF'.

Laser is now in the OFF state.

Turn the key switch to the OFF position.

Set the external laser isolator switch to OFF.

Turn off the external water supply.

The emergency stop procedure must only be used if external conditions deem it necessary. It

must not be used as a shutdown method in normal conditions.

Press the red EMERGENCY STOP button.

Set the external laser isolator switch to OFF.

Turn off the external water supply.

Follow all Local Emergency Procedures.

8.3 Control of Operating Temperature

It is important that water cooled redPOWER Fiber Lasers are operated above the local dew

point (see Section 17.1). A solenoid valve on the cooling water inlet is used to maintain the





70

temperature of the base plate at the desired value using closed loop control. The temperature

is maintained within ±0.5°C of the set point by varying the open and close time of the solenoid

valve. The closer the inlet water temperature is to the set-point, the less frequently the valve

will have to operate.

For the most stable laser operation the water inlet temperature and the laser temperature set-

point should be the same. The optimum operating temperature will be the lowest value that is

above the local dew point at all times. In certain countries with large variation of dew point

over the year, it is preferable to optimise the set-point for different seasons.

The set point can be adjusted in the range 18°C to 30°C using FiberView.

8.4 Alarms and Warnings 8.4.1 Alarms

When the system detects an alarm condition, the QUBE Fiber Laser goes to the OFF state.

Alarm conditions include:

Optical Fault

Back reflection detected

Output Fiber over-temperature

Supply ‘brown-out’

Internal over-temperature

In the case of an optical fault, the QUBE Fiber Laser may enter Safe Mode. In this mode, the

QUBE Fiber Laser is limited to a pre-configured parameter set that will output a low energy,

low frequency pulse. This allows checks to be made without making any damage worse.

Optical fault detection needs to be sensitive enough react quickly to minimise damage.

However, there may be a potential for false detection of optical faults. In this case, the safe

mode recovery routine will take the QUBE Fiber Laser out of safe mode.

8.4.2 Warnings

A warning is generated by conditions which are of concern, but do not put the QUBE Fiber

Laser into the OFF state. Warnings are removed automatically when the condition is removed.

Warning conditions include:

Back Reflection approaching alarm level

Process cabinet door interlock switch open

Temperature(s) approaching alarm level(s)

QUBE Fiber Laser in Safe Mode





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9 Laser Control and FiberView

9.1 Overview

FiberView is the Graphical User Interface (GUI) program specifically written for redPOWER

Fiber Lasers with the FiberView Control Unit. FiberView is used to monitor and control the

redPOWER Fiber Laser, program parameters and process cycles, alert the User to any

maintenance requirements and to aid in fault diagnosis. FiberView is an advanced laser

control system offering many features not available in other products. However the protocol for

controlling redPOWER Fiber Lasers is available from SPI Lasers to allow users to integrate

control of redPOWER Fiber Lasers into an overall system controller.

The initial configuration of the redPOWER Fiber Laser can be set from FiberView, and then

the operating parameters selected and internal parameters monitored during operation.

Different levels of access (Maintenance, Supervisor, and Operator) are allowed to the features

of the program for control of the redPOWER Fiber Laser in a production environment.

If the FiberView program is run with no laser connected to the PC, then an option is available

to run in a simulation mode. This mode is useful for safely familiarising the user with the

operation of the program.

9.2 Basic Operation

Launch the FiberView Program. For the normal installation there will be a shortcut on the

Desktop to do this, along with the version number if the default install options have been used.

On starting the FiberView program in its default mode, a dialog box similar to Figure 29

appears. The FiberView application will automatically search for redPOWER Fiber Lasers

connected via RS-232 and Ethernet (local or network) connections. FiberView displays all the

redPOWER Fiber Lasers to which it is connected. Clicking on each connection will show

more information. Select the desired connection, and then click on “Connect to Laser …” to

enable FiberView to control that redPOWER Fiber Laser.





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Figure 29 Fiber Laser Connection Dialog

If a redPOWER Fiber Laser is connected to the PC, but FiberView cannot establish

communication with it then

1. Check the correct connection cable is being used, appropriate to the type of serial

connection (as in Sections 7.6.3 or 7.6.5).

2. Use the Communications Settings button to check that FiberView is set for the same

communication port that the redPOWER Fiber Laser is connected to, and correct if

necessary.

3. Make sure that the communications modules have been correctly installed. Do this by

uninstalling FiberView. Then go into the Utilities – Communications Package folder on

the FiberView CD. Run the program FLComms110.exe. Then re-install FiberView as

described in Section 7.5.

The hardware on the redPOWER Fiber Laser stores set-up information: e.g. programmed

parameter sets, alarm and warning levels, calibration data and configuration. On start-up,

FiberView reads this information from the redPOWER Fiber Laser. Thus one installation of

FiberView can be connected to any redPOWER Fiber Laser, and will know its status and

limitations. The information read back from the redPOWER Fiber Laser is displayed in the

Laser Tabs area.

It is possible to have more than one instance of FiberView running on a single PC, with each

instance controlling a separate redPOWER Fiber Laser.

On connecting to a redPOWER Fiber Laser, FiberView displays its overview screen, similar

to Figure 30.





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Figure 30 FiberView Overview Screen

The Control Tabs are used to set-up and monitor the redPOWER Fiber Laser operating

parameters.

To configure the operating parameters select the Parameter Editor Control Tab or, on the

Menu bar, select: View – Windows – Parameter Set Programming. Here the demand level is

set and the output waveform (CW, single sector pulse, sine wave or an arbitrary user defined

shape) is determined.

Note: For a CW output, 100% demand is calibrated to deliver the maximum rated power of the

redPOWER Fiber Laser.

Maximum demand setting is 102-110% (depending on the redPOWER Fiber Laser model).

This extra headroom can be used to fine tune the process, or compensate for small variations

over time in the processing conditions.

In Single Sector Pulsed Mode a frequency and pulse width are set. In this mode the pump

drivers are switched on and off rapidly. The effect is to ‘chop’ the CW output into a series of

pulses.

Returning to the Laser Overview Screen (Monitors Tab, or on the Menu bar select: View –

Windows – Laser Overview), will allow the redPOWER Fiber Laser’s conditions to be

monitored while it is running.





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To operate the redPOWER Fiber Laser use the buttons in the Tool bar. Click on the green

STANDBY Button to enable the redPOWER Fiber Laser. When the On Button turns black

(after a 5s safety delay), click on it to start laser emission.

To turn the redPOWER Fiber Laser OFF, click the red Off Button, or the green STANDBY

Button.

Note: Turning the redPOWER Fiber Laser ON from STANDBY is faster than from OFF.

9.3 Parameter Sets 9.3.1 Overview

Parameter Sets define the output of the redPOWER Fiber Laser. This section explains how

the different fields of the Parameter Set affect the output. The FVCU can store up to 50

Parameter Sets in its onboard memory for fast access when switching between Parameter

Sets during processing.

Each Parameter Set contains the following information:

Table 14 Parameter Set Attributes

Item Information

Parameter Set

Identification String

A 16 character string giving the Parameter Set an identifying name.

(e.g. to store the name of the part the Parameter Set has been

developed to process)

Library Shape

Reference

The output style: either a Pre–defined shape or a User defined

shape

Mean Current Demand Used for CW and Sine Wave output styles

Peak Current Demand Used for Single Sector Pulse, Sine and User Defined Shape output

styles

Width The pulse width duration for the Single Sector Pulse and User

Defined Shape output styles, scaled in microseconds, with a

maximum duration of 1s

Frequency The maximum frequency that can be set is 50kHz

Ramp Up Time The time to ramp up from the STANDBY to the ON state, with a

maximum of 10s

Ramp Down Time The time to ramp down from the ON to the STANDBY state, with a

maximum of 10s

External Power

Control Enable

Selects between external analogue control and internal parameter

set control for output height. When external control is enabled, the

analogue input on the Machine Interface controls the output height





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Item Information

External Power

Control Mode

Relative mode sets the external analogue control range between 0

and the relevant height of the active Parameter Set.

Absolute mode sets the external analogue control range between 0

and the maximum current demand

External Trigger

Source

Selects between internal and external Trigger sources. This is a

Local operating mode Trigger source select, and only has a bearing

on the output if the Machine Interface Trigger source select function

is not configured to an input when in Remote Control

Internal Trigger Select The output is Triggered from the internal frequency generator at the

frequency determined by the active Parameter Set Frequency field

External Trigger Select When the external Trigger input on the Machine Interface is set, the

output response is determined by the External Trigger Mode

External Trigger Mode Edge Trigger Mode (when this mode is selected, the redPOWER

Fiber Laser will output a Single Pulse or User Defined Shape each

time a Machine Interface Trigger input is generated - input transition

from CLEAR to SET)

Gated Trigger Mode (when this mode is selected, the output will use

the active Parameter Set settings when a Machine Interface Trigger

input is asserted.) There is no output when the Machine Interface

Trigger input is clear. If a pulsed style shape is being used (Single

Sector Pulse or User Defined Shape), the frequency of the output is

determined by the internal frequency generator.

Parameter Sets can be edited using the Parameter Editor. Select by Parameter Editor Tab, or

View – Windows – Parameter Set Programming on Menu Bar.





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Figure 31 FiberView Parameter Editor

Use the up and down arrows by each parameter to adjust by amount shown as multiplier to

right of box.

To adjust the multiplier, right click on it and select desired value from the popup menu.

Alternatively, type the desired value directly into the appropriate parameter box.

9.3.2 Current Demand Level

Mean Current Demand – used for CW and Sine Wave output styles. Maximum value is

100%.

Peak Current Demand – used for Single Sector Pulse, Sine and User Defined Shape

output styles. Maximum value is 100%.

9.3.3 Frequency

Sets the pulse repetition frequency, in kHz, when operating in Internal Trigger mode. The

maximum frequency that can be set is 70kHz.

9.3.4 Width

Sets the pulse width, in microseconds, for the pulse width duration for the Single Sector Pulse

and User Defined Shape output styles. The maximum duration that can be set is 1s.





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9.3.5 Ramp Up

When output is demanded it will linearly increase from zero to the demanded level over this

period.

9.3.6 Ramp Down

When the output is turned off, its power will decrease to zero over this period.

9.3.7 Trigger Mode

Selecting one of the External Modes allows the QUBE Fiber Laser to be controlled by a

Trigger signal applied to the Trigger Input (Pin 16) on the Machine Interface (PL5, section

7.6.5).

Internal: Output pulses generated at rate set in the parameter editor, using internal

function generator.

External Edge Triggered: One output pulse is generated for each positive going edge

on the Trigger inputs. Not for CW mode.

External Gated: Output is enabled while the Trigger input is held high, and turned off

for Trigger input low.

9.3.8 EPC (External Power Control)

Allows the demand level to be controlled by the value of the voltage applied to the Analogue

Input (Pins 11 and 24) on the Machine Interface (PL5, Section 7.6.5).

The EPC indicator in the Status Indicators area will turn red if EPC is in use for the Active

pulse shape.

Off: Analogue Input level ignored.

Absolute: An input of 0-10V will control the peak demand for the pulse shape from 0-

100%.

Relative: An input of 0-10V will control the peak demand for the pulse shape from 0%

to the maximum value set in the pulse shape parameters.

Note: By setting the pulse shape to CW and using EPC mode, the output of the QUBE Fiber

Laser can be made to follow any arbitrary externally applied waveform.

9.3.9 User Defined Pulse Shapes

Any arbitrary pulse shape can be defined using the Shape Editor. The Shape Editor works

with dimensionless shapes that are then saved as a particular User Defined pulse shape. This

pulse shape can be used in any parameter set, where it is scaled to the peak power and pulse

width associated with that pulse shape.





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The Shape Editor, shown in Figure 32, is accessed from the Parameter Editor tab by either

selecting the ‘Pencil’ icon or via menu option View – Shape Editor. Clicking on the Insert

button allows a range of features to be added to the Pulse Shape. Any node on the Shape can

be selected and dragged to a new position to alter the shape.

Figure 32 Shape Editor Window

When the shape is completed, click on the “Save to Laser Storage” icon and assign it to a

User Defined shape number (which can later be used in any parameter set). A copy of the

shape can be saved to disc using the “Save to Local Storage” option.

The ‘Library’ and ‘Usage’ buttons can be used to see which pulse shapes are currently in use

by the QUBE Fiber Laser.

9.4 Process Cycles

Process Cycles are an automation feature of redPOWER Fiber Lasers. They allow a

programmed sequence of Parameter Sets to be output using minimal input to control an entire

sequence, for example when a single part has to be processed with different types of spot and

seam welds at different positions around the part. Process Cycles are constructed from one or

more elements known as Steps. Each Step holds a Parameter Set reference and control

attributes. A Process Cycle can be programmed to execute fully automatically from start to

finish, or to require an external input / serial command to change between programmed Steps,

or any combination of automatic and manual control.

The FVCU has the capacity to store up to 1000 steps which can be grouped into up to 50

Process Cycles. In this way, for example, a single Process Cycle of 1000 Steps or 50 Process

Cycles of 20 Steps can be set up. Any number of Steps can be linked to create a range of

Process Cycles, provided that there are no more than 50 Process Cycles and no more than a

combined total of 1000 Steps.





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Figure 33 shows Steps grouped into Process Cycles. The Process Cycles contain from one to

16 Steps.

Figure 33 Steps Grouped Into Process Cycles

A 16 character name is stored with each active Process Cycle to allow it to be identified. For

example, the name of the Process Cycle could be the name of the part the Process Cycle has

been developed to process.

Process Cycle Steps determine the sequence of Parameter Sets that are executed, along

with their timing and transition type. All of the other information required to specify the output

is determined by the Parameter Set.

To edit a Process Cycle select by Process Cycle Tab, or View – Windows – Process Cycle

Editor on Menu Bar.

The Process Cycle Steps contain the attributes listed in Table 15. The attributes can be

assigned to each Step using the Process Cycle editor, as shown in Figure 34.

Figure 34 FiberView Process Cycle Editor





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Table 15 Process Cycle Step Attributes

Item Label Information

Parameter Set

Reference

Parameter This field is used to reference any of the 50 available

Parameter Sets

Automatic or

manual step

transition

AutoStep This field sets whether the execution will advance onto the next

Step automatically, or require a manual Step command

Shots or

duration

execution

Mode This field specifies whether the Step duration is measured as a

number of pulses or as a timed duration before its execution

has completed and the Process Cycle is ready to advance onto

the next stage

Number of

shots or time

period for the

step

Data This field specifies the number of pulses or the time duration of

the Step depending on the execution type field of the Step.

Range 0 to 10000 milliseconds or pulses. Specifying a value of

0 sets the Step to infinite duration, which overrides the

transition type to manual, and outputs the specified Parameter

Set until a manual Step command is received

9.5 Other Settings 9.5.1 Alignment Laser

The alignment laser of the redPOWER Fiber Laser assists in aligning the process tool in the

correct position on the work piece. Red light from a low power laser diode is transmitted to the

work piece using the same delivery fiber as the main laser output.

The alignment laser can be activated at any time by clicking on the diode icon on the Tool Bar.

The state of the redPOWER Fiber Laser is taken into account when activating the alignment

laser, as follows:

Laser OFF state:

The alignment laser will turn on.

Laser STANDBY state:

The alignment laser will turn on.

Laser ON state:

The QUBE Fiber Laser will be emitting, so when the alignment laser is activated its state

will be reported as ON, but its output will be OFF. When the laser enters STANDBY or

OFF, the alignment laser output is automatically switched ON.

Note: If the alignment laser is left ON, it will automatically switch off after 30 minutes.





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9.5.2 Laser Temperature Set Point for Cooling water Control Valve

The operating set point for the solenoid valve can be adjusted using the Solenoid Settings

screen that is accessed from the main Menu bar by selecting Configuration - Laser - Solenoid

Settings. The dialog box, Figure 35, shows the current Set-point value, and allows the

temperature set-point to be updated. The current real time status of the solenoid valve is

reported.

When the laser is not in operation, the Solenoid Open and Close buttons on the dialog can be

used to set the solenoid status manually. During operation the Solenoid Open button will over-

ride the automatic control of the valve and open it for 5 seconds.

Figure 35 Solenoid Set Point Update Screen

9.5.3 Machine Interface

The Machine Interface functions are described in Section 7.6.5. The configuration of the seven

outputs and seven inputs can be designated and confirmed by selecting either the

Maintenance Tab and then MCIF from its toolbar, or from the Menu bar: View – Windows –

Maintenance – Machine Interface.

To alter the configuration use the Menu bar in the Maintenance - Machine Interface window

and select Action – Change Configuration. To write the new configuration to the QUBE Fiber

Laser, select Action – Save Configuration.

The Function for each connection can be selected from the drop down boxes associated with

each one.





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Note: If an external Trigger Input is to be used on the Machine Interface, it is highly

recommended that it be connected to In6, Pin 16. This connection has higher speed hardware

associated with it designed for this function.

9.5.4 Alarms and Warnings

If there is an error condition that Triggers an Alarms or Warnings, the corresponding indicator

in the Status Indicators Area of the FiberView window will turn red. A list of the Alarm and

Warning messages and codes is given in Section 12.

To find more information on which Alarms or Warnings has been activated, hover the mouse

over the red indicator and a pop up box will show which Alarm or Warning has been activated.

This information is also displayed in the two line status window under the Power output

display.

Records of Alarms and Warnings can also be viewed by selecting the Logs Tab or View –

Windows – Logs on the Menu Bar, and then clicking ‘Alm’ or ‘Warn’ on the Logs window

toolbar.

After clearing the Alarm condition, use the Reset button on the main FiberView Toolbar to

reset the indicator status and allow the QUBE Fiber Laser to be restarted.

10 Basic Control using Serial Communication

10.1 Overview

This section explains how to start and stop the QUBE Fiber Laser using the serial protocol

over either an RS-232 or Ethernet connection.





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10.2 Functionality

Figure 36 State Transition Diagram

The QUBE Fiber Laser can be in one of six states: OFF, STARTING, STANDBY, RAMPING

UP, ON or RAMPING DOWN (see Figure 36).

Three commands can be issued to change the state. (The other states are controlled by the

sequencing.)





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Laser OFF

Laser STANDBY

Laser ON

The states are described in more detail below.

OFF State

The OFF state is entered under the following conditions:

Following the appropriate input to the Machine Interface

Following a Laser OFF command

Following an Alarm condition

The OFF state is left after receiving a Laser STANDBY command.

STARTING State

When in the OFF state, the STARTING state is entered after receiving a Laser STANDBY

command. The STARTING state automatically sequences to the STANDBY state after a

fixed time of 5s.

The OFF state is entered if an Alarm condition occurs.

STANDBY State

The STANDBY state is entered under the following conditions

Following the STARTING state duration after a Laser STANDBY command is

received.

Following the Ramp Down state duration after a Laser STANDBY command is

received.

The STANDBY state is left after receiving a Laser ON command.


RAMPING UP State

When in the RAMPING DOWN or STANDBY states, the RAMPING UP state is entered

after receiving a Laser ON command.

When in other states the Laser ON command is ignored.

The RAMPING UP State automatically sequences to the ON state after the ramp up

duration has elapsed. The ramp up duration is determined by the active parameter set.


ON State

The ON state is entered automatically from the RAMPING UP State after the ramp up

duration has elapsed. The ramp up duration is determined by the active parameter set.

The ON state is left after receiving a Laser STANDBY command.





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RAMPING DOWN State

When in the RAMPING UP or ON states, the RAMPING DOWN state is entered after

receiving a Laser STANDBY command.

The RAMPING DOWN State automatically sequences to the STANDBY state after the

ramp down duration has elapsed. The ramp down duration is determined by the active

parameter set.


10.3 Basic Serial Communication Protocol Message

References

Set Laser OFF (Control Code 0x00) - Sends a Laser OFF command.

Set Laser STANDBY (Control Code 0x01) - Sends a Laser STANDBY command.

Set Laser ON (Control Code 0x02) - Sends a Laser ON command.

Read Laser State (Control Code 0x03) - Requests the state.

Reset System (Control Code 0x05) - Sends a Reset command. Normally used to reset

an Alarm condition when the cause has been cleared.

Read Zone Status (Control Code 0x50) - Used to retrieve the overall status including

the current state.

Refer to SM-S00499, Fiber Laser Serial Communications Protocol, for the exact structure and

implementation of the above serial protocol commands.

11 Machine Interface Reference

11.1 Overview

The Machine Interface for the QUBE Fiber Laser consists of seven inputs and seven outputs.

They are available to Laser Integrators on connector PL5 as shown in Table 10. Each input

and output can be configured to perform a specific function selected from a list of available

functions. This configuration can be changed to suite the laser’s operation. The default

configuration should be suitable for the majority of applications, but the configurable flexibility

allows laser integrators to tailor the interface to their application if required.

This section describes setting up the Machine Interface on the redPOWER QUBE Fiber

Laser using the default configuration. SM-S00499, Fiber Laser Serial Communications

Protocol is available to explain how to reconfigure the Machine Interface functionality if the

default configuration does not suit the required application.





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11.2 Default Input Functionality 11.2.1 Summary

The default configuration of the Machine Interface inputs and outputs is given in Table 16 and

Table 17

Table 16 Default Configuration of Machine Interface Inputs

Input

Number

Pin on

PL5

Function

ID

Function Description Reference

IN0 3 1 Laser Start 11.2.2

IN1 4 2 Laser ON / Process Cycle Start 11.2.3

IN2 17 5 Process Cycle Step 11.2.4

IN4 18 6 Alarm Reset 11.2.5

IN6 16 3 Trigger 11.2.6

Table 17 Default Configuration of Machine Interface Outputs

Output

Number

Pin on

PL5

Function

ID

Function Description Reference

OUT0 19 1 Laser STANDBY 11.3.1

OUT 1 7 2 Laser ON / Process Cycle

Active

11.3.2

OUT 2 20 3 Remote Control 11.3.3

OUT 3 8 7 Alarm 11.3.4

OUT 4 21 8 Warning 11.3.5

OUT 5 9 9 Energy Warning (Future

Functionality)

11.3.6

OUT 6 22 5 Process Cycle Wait 11.3.7

11.2.2 Laser Start (Input Function ID 1):

Default connection

o PL5 pin number 3

o Input number 0

Basic Function Description

o Only operational in Remote Control.

o Takes the state from OFF to STANDBY under Remote Control





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o Input is edge sensitive in Remote Control.

o Input is level sensitive when entering Remote Control.

Detailed Function Description

o SETting the input sequences the state to the STANDBY state.

o CLEARing the input switches the state to the OFF state.

o When switching into Remote Control, the state of the Laser Start input is acted

upon depending on the state of the QUBE Fiber Laser as follows:

When the state is OFF, and Laser Start input is SET, the state will

remain OFF when entering Remote Control. The Laser Start input must

detect a positive edge to change the state. Alternatively a software

command can be issued to sequence the state to the STANDBY state

while the input remains SET.

When the state is the STANDBY or the ON state, and Laser Start input

is CLEAR, the state will switch to the OFF state when entering Remote

Control. In this case, the Laser Start input is level sensitive. While in

Remote Control, the only way to sequence the state into the STANDBY

state is to SET Laser Start.

When the state is the STANDBY or the ON state, and the Laser Start

input is SET, the state will not switch to the OFF state when entering

Remote Control. In this case, the state of the Laser Start input is level

sensitive and the state is also dependant on the Laser ON / Process

Cycle Start input.

o Therefore, care must be taken to ensure the Laser Start input (if configured) is

in the correct state when entering Remote Control.

This function has no effect if it is not configured on the Machine Interface.

This function can be assigned to any of the seven inputs.

Associated default functions

o Laser STANDBY - Output Function

o Remote Status - Output Function

Sequence diagrams:





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Figure 37 Moving to STANDBY in Remote Control

Figure 38 Moving to OFF in Remote Control

Note: There is a small switching delay before the Laser Start is acted on (<1ms)





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Figure 39 Entering Remote Control (OFF state, Laser Start Set)

Figure 40 Entering Remote Control (STANDBY or ON state, Laser Start Clear)

Figure 41 Entering Remote Control (STANDBY or ON state, Laser Start Set)





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11.2.3 Laser ON / Process Cycle Start (Input Function ID 2):

Default connection

o PL5 pin number 4

o Input number 1


o Multiplexed input depending on processing mode.

o Takes the state from the STANDBY state to the ON state and the ON state to

the STANDBY state under Remote Control in parameter set mode.

o Starts / stops a process cycle under Remote Control in process cycle mode.

o Input is edge sensitive in Remote Control.

o Input is level sensitive when entering Remote Control.



a) Parameter Set Operation

When the QUBE Fiber Laser is in Remote Control this input function provides the

following action:

o From the STANDBY state, setting the input changes the state to the ON state

or the RAMPING UP state if a ramp up time is configured in the active

parameter set.

o From the ON state, clearing the input changes the state to the STANDBY state

or starts the RAMPING DOWN state if a ramp down time is configured in the

active parameter set.

When in the STANDBY state and switching into Remote Control the Laser ON input is

acted upon depending on the initial state.

o When the state is the STANDBY state, and the Laser ON input is SET, the

state will not switch to the ON state when entering Remote Control. In this case

the Laser ON input is edge Triggered.

o When the state is the ON state, and the Laser ON input is CLEAR, the state

will change to the RAMPING DOWN (if any ramp is set) or STANDBY state

when selecting Remote Control. In this case the Laser ON input is level

sensitive.

o When the state is the ON state, and the Laser ON input is SET (and the Laser

Start input is either not configured or configured and SET), the state will remain

the ON state. In this case the Laser ON input is level sensitive.

o When the state is the OFF state, or transitioning to the STANDBY state, and

the Laser ON input is SET, the state will not transition to the ON state when it

enters STANDBY.





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b) Process Cycle Operation

When the QUBE Fiber Laser is in Remote Control this input function provides the

following action:

o From the STANDBY state, setting the input starts a Process Cycle.

o From the Process Cycle Active state, clearing the input stops a Process Cycle.

If a ramp down time is set in the Parameter Set linked to the active Process

Cycle Step, the ramp down will commence when the Process Cycle Start input

is CLEARED and the state will transition to the STANDBY state.

When in STANDBY and switching into Remote Control the state of the Process Cycle

Start input is acted upon depending on the initial state.

o If the state is the STANDBY state, and the Process Cycle Start input is SET, a

Process Cycle will not start when entering Remote Control. In this case the

Process Cycle Start input is edge Triggered.

o If a Process Cycle is active when entering Remote Control it will stop

regardless of the Process Cycle Start input condition. If a ramp down time is set

in the Parameter Set linked to the active Process Cycle Step, when entering

Remote Control the ramp down will commence and the state will transition to

the STANDBY state.

o When the state is the OFF state, or transitioning to the STANDBY state, and

the Process Cycle Start input is SET, a Process Cycle will not start when it

enters STANDBY.

Care must be taken to ensure the Laser Start and Laser ON / Process Cycle Start

inputs (if configured) are in the correct state when entering Remote Control.

This function is only operational in Remote Control and when the state is the

STANDBY state. If this function is configured and SET, when the STANDBY state is

entered from the OFF state, the state will not transition to the ON state. The configured

input must be cycled to provide a leading edge to transition the state to the ON state.

This function has no effect if it is not configured on the Machine Interface.

This function can be assigned to any of the seven inputs.

Associated functions

o Laser Start - Input Function


o Laser ON / Process Cycle Active - Output Function

o Remote Status - Output Function

Sequence diagrams

a) Parameter Set Operation





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Figure 42 Moving to ON in Remote Control

Note:

The QUBE Fiber Laser can be started using a serial protocol message, as long as Laser Start

is SET.

Laser ON can be asserted at any time to move the state to the ON state as long as the initial

state is in STANDBY state.

There is a small switching delay before Laser ON is acted on (<1ms) and Laser ON status is

SET or CLEARED

Figure 43 Moving to STANDBY in Remote Control (No ramp down time configured)





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Figure 44 Moving to STANDBY in Remote Control (Ramp down time configured)

Figure 45 Moving to ON state in Remote Control before the state has moved to the STANDBY state





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Figure 46 Entering Remote Control (STANDBY state, Laser ON Input Set)

Figure 47 Entering Remote Control (ON state, Laser ON Input Set)





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Figure 48 Entering Remote Control (ON state, Laser ON Input Clear, No ramp down time configured)

Figure 49 Entering Remote Control (ON state, Laser ON Input Clear, Ramp down time configured)

b) Process Cycle Operation





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Figure 50 Starting a Process Cycle in Remote Control

Note: The state can be moved to the ON state using a serial protocol message, as long as

Laser Start is SET.

Process Cycle Start can be asserted at any time to start a Process Cycle as long as the state

is the STANDBY state.

There is a small switching delay before Process Cycle Start is acted on (<1ms) and Process

Cycle Active is SET.

Figure 51 Stopping a Process Cycle in Remote Control (No ramp down time configured in active step Parameter Step)





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Note: There is a small switching delay before Process Cycle Start is acted (<1ms) and

Process Cycle Active status is CLEARED.

Figure 52 Stopping a Process Cycle in Remote Control (Ramp down time configured in active Step Parameter Step)

Figure 53 Starting a Process Cycle in Remote Control before the state has moved to the STANDBY state





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Figure 54 Entering Remote Control (STANDBY state, Process Cycle Start Input SET)

Figure 55 Entering Remote Control (Process Cycle Active, Process Cycle Start Input Set, No ramp down time configured in active step Parameter Step)





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Figure 56 Entering Remote Control (Process Cycle Active, Process Cycle Start Input Set, Ramp down time configured in

active step Parameter Step)

Figure 57 Entering Remote Control (STANDBY state, Process Cycle Start Input Set)





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Figure 58 Entering Remote Control (Process Cycle Active, Process Cycle Start Input CLEAR, No ramp down time configured in active step Parameter Step)

Figure 59 Entering Remote Control (Process Cycle Active, Process Cycle Start Input CLEAR, Ramp down time configured

in active step Parameter Step)

11.2.4 Process Cycle Step (Input Function ID 5):

Default connection

o PL5 pin number 17

o Input number 2





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o Only relative to Process Cycle mode.

o Advance a Process Cycle Step once the duration or shots have completed.

o Input is leading edge sensitive.



o This input function is used in conjunction with the Process Cycles feature of the

QUBE Fiber Laser. It is used to advance a Process Cycle on to the next step

when the active Process Cycle Step is configured to manual step mode, or the

step duration is infinite. The input function becomes active when the step

duration (either time or shots) has completed and the step is waiting to

advance. The Step input is active from the start of the step execution for steps

configured with an infinite duration (duration = 0).

o An output function can be configured on the Machine Interface to indicate that

the Process Cycle is waiting for a Step input in order to advance.

o If the function is not configured on the Machine Interface a Process Cycle

cannot be advanced using the Machine Interface. In this situation, steps can be

advanced using the serial protocol, or steps must be configured to

automatically advance.

o This input function is only operational in Remote Control.

o This function can be assigned to any of the seven inputs.

o Associated functions

Laser ON / Process Cycle Start - Input Function

Laser ON / Process Cycle Active - Output Function

Process Cycle Wait - Output Function

Sequence diagrams





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Figure 60 Advancing Process Cycle Steps in Remote Control

Notes:

If a Process Cycle is waiting, it will only advance when it receives a step command.

The Process Cycle Wait output will clear once the Step input command has been processed.

It is not synchronised with the clearing of the Step input.





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Figure 61 Advancing Process Cycle Steps in Remote Control(Before Process Cycle Wait Is Set)

Note: The second Process Cycle Step input advances the process cycle as the leading edge

occurs while the Process Cycle is waiting to advance.

11.2.5 Alarm Reset (Input Function ID 6):

Default connection

o PL5 pin number 18

o Input number 4


o Resets QUBE Fiber Laser (normally after an alarm condition has occurred, and

the cause has been cleared).

o Input is leading edge sensitive.



o This input function allows the QUBE Fiber Laser to be reset via the Machine

Interface. It Triggers when the input transitions from CLEAR to SET only. The

function can be used following an alarm condition, once the fault has been

identified and cleared, to clear the latched alarm state.





104

o Triggering the Alarm Reset function while the state is in the STANDBY or ON

state will switch the state to the OFF state.

o An output function can be configured on the Machine Interface to indicate when

there is an alarm condition.

o This function is only operational in Remote Control.

o This function can be assigned to any of the seven inputs.


Alarm - Output Function

Laser STANDBY - Output Function

Sequence diagrams

Figure 62 Alarm Reset

Notes:

Alarm condition causes the state to move to the OFF state.

The alarm condition must be cleared before resetting it otherwise the alarm may reoccur

following the reset.





105

Figure 63 Alarm Reset When in the ON state

11.2.6 Trigger (Input Function ID 3):

Default connection

o PL5 pin number 16

o Input number 6


o Provides a signal to the QUBE Fiber Laser to start output.

o Configurable for Edge or Gated modes.

o Input is edge sensitive for Edge Trigger mode.

o Input is level sensitive for Gated mode.

o Operational in both Local and Remote Control.


o This input function allows the power output to be controlled externally. It has

two functions depending on the active Parameter Set settings. It can be

configured as a Gate (level sensitive), where power will be output when the

input is SET, and stopped when the input is CLEAR, or a Trigger (leading edge

sensitive), where a single defined pulse configured in the active parameter set

will be output each time the input is asserted. The output can only be Triggered

up to the frequency configured in the active parameter set.





106

o The input is operational in both Remote and Local Control as follows

o In Local – The Trigger mode is configured using the parameter set

configuration.

o In Remote – The Trigger is configured using the Trigger Source Select if this

function is configured on the Machine Interface, or the active Parameter Set

settings are used if Trigger Source Select is not configured.

o If this function is not configured on the Machine Interface, the external Trigger

mode is specified by the active Parameter Set.

o This function can be assigned to any of the seven inputs, although it is

recommended to use Input 6, as this input uses higher bandwidth electronics.


Trigger Source Select - Input Function

Sync - Output Function

Sequence diagrams

Figure 64 Edge Trigger Operation(Pulsed Output Only)





107

Figure 65 Gated Trigger Operation (Pulsed Output)

Note: Gated Trigger is not synchronised with the output pulses in during Pulsed Output.

Figure 66 Gated Trigger Operation (CW Output)

11.3 Default Output Functionality 11.3.1 Laser STANDBY (Output Function ID 1):

Default connection

o PL5 pin number 19

o Output number 0


o SET when the state is the STANDBY state.

o CLEAR when the state is in the OFF state.





108



o This output function is used to indicate when the state is the STANDBY state. It

will not be SET until the emission indication time (5s) has expired, following a

Laser Start command from either a configured Machine Interface Laser Start

input function, or a Laser STANDBY serial command message.

o The output function will also be SET when the state is the ON state, or a

Process Cycle is active.

o The output function is CLEAR when the state is the OFF state or STARTING

state.

o This function can be assigned to any of the seven outputs.


Laser Start - Input Function

Sequence diagrams

o See Figure 37 to Figure 66 for example functionality.

11.3.2 Laser ON / Process Cycle Active (Output Function ID 2):

Default connection

o PL5 pin number 7

o Output number 1


o SET when the state is the RAMPING state or the ON state, or a Process Cycle

is active.

o CLEAR when the state is in the STANDBY state or the OFF state.



o This output function is used to indicate when the state is the ON state or

RAMPING state in Parameter Sets mode or a Process Cycle is active in

Process Cycle mode.

o The operation of the function is subtly different depending on whether the

QUBE Fiber Laser is operating in Parameter Set mode, or Process Cycles

mode as follows:

a) Parameter Sets mode:

This output function will be SET following a Laser ON command from either a

configured Machine Interface Laser ON input function (SET under Remote Control), or

a Laser ON serial command message.





109

When the QUBE Fiber Laser is configured to ramp up via the Parameter Set, this

function will be SET when the ramp up starts, and remain SET until the state returns to

the STANDBY state or moves to the OFF state.

When the QUBE Fiber Laser is configured to ramp down via the Parameter Set, this

function will be CLEAR when the ramp down has completed and output has stopped.

This output function remains SET for the duration of a configured ramp down time

following the issue of a Laser STANDBY command either by a configured Machine

Interface Laser ON input function (CLEARED under Remote Control) or a Laser

STANDBY serial command message.

b) Process Cycles mode:

This output function will be SET following a Process Cycle Start command from either

a configured Machine Interface Process Cycle Start input function (SET under Remote

Control), or a Process Cycle Start serial command message.

Output function will be CLEAR when a Process Cycle completes, or the Process Cycle

is stopped from either a configured Machine Interface Process Cycle Start input

function (CLEARED under Remote Control), or a Process Cycle Stop serial command

message.

When a Process Cycle is terminated; if the current step being executed is referencing

a Parameter Set with a ramp down time defined, this output function remains SET for

the duration of a configured ramp down time following the issue of a Process Cycle

Stop command either by a configured Machine Interface Process Cycle Start input

function (CLEARED under Remote Control) or a Process Cycle Stop serial command

message.

This function can be assigned to any of the seven outputs.

Associated functions

o Laser ON / Process Cycle Start - Input Function


Sequence diagrams


11.3.3 Remote Control (Output Function ID 3):

Default connection

o PL5 pin number 20

o Output number 2


o SET when in Remote Control.

o CLEAR when t in Local Control.





110


o This output function is used to indicate whether the QUBE Fiber Laser is in

Remote or Local control mode. Remote Control indicates that the QUBE Fiber

Laser is monitoring and being controlled by the Machine Interface inputs. The

mode is Local control when the output is CLEAR, and Remote Control when

the output is SET.

o Some or all of the Local control functionality can be utilised when in Remote

Control, depending on the Machine Interface input configuration.

o The mode can only be changed between Remote and Local control via the

serial communications interface.


Sequence diagrams


11.3.4 Alarm (Output Function ID 7):

Default connection

o PL5 pin number 8

o Output number 3


o SET when there is in an alarm condition.

o CLEAR when there is no alarm condition.



o This output is used to indicate when there is an Alarm condition. It is cleared by

issuing an Alarm Reset command once the condition causing the alarm has

been cleared, from either a configured Machine Interface Alarm Reset input

function (SET under Remote Control) or an Alarm Reset serial command

message.


o Associated function

Alarm Reset - Input Function

11.3.5 Warning (Output Function ID 8):

Default connection

o PL5 pin number 21





111

o Output number 4


o SET when there is a warning condition.

o CLEAR when there is no warning condition.



o This output is used to indicate when there is a Warning condition.

o This output function is SET for any warning condition. It is CLEARED when

there are no warning conditions.


11.3.6 Energy Warning (Output Function ID 9) (Future Functionality):

Default connection

o PL5 pin number 9

o Output number 5


o SET when there is an energy warning condition.

o CLEAR when there is no energy warning condition.



This output is used to indicate when there is an Energy Warning condition.

This function can be assigned to any of the seven outputs.

11.3.7 Process Cycle Wait (Output Function ID 5):

Default connection

o PL5 pin number 22

o Output number 6


o SET during a Process Cycle at the end of a manual transitions step to indicate

the Process Cycle is waiting for a Step input in order to continue.

o CLEAR at any other time.







112

o This output is used to indicate when the Process Cycle is waiting for a Step

command in order to advance during a Process Cycle execution.

o The Step command can be issued either by a configured Machine Interface

Process Cycle Step input function (SET under Remote Control) or a Process

Cycle Step serial command message.



Laser ON / Process Cycle Start - Input Function

Process Cycle Step - Input Function

Laser STANDBY - Output Function

Laser ON / Process Cycle Active - Output Function

Sequence diagrams

o See Figure 60 and Figure 61 for example functionality.

11.4 Machine Interface Protocol Message

References

Set Zone Configuration (Control Code 0x20)

o This command is used to configure the Machine Interface functionality.

Read Zone Configuration (Control Code 0x21)

o This command is used to read the Machine Interface functionality.

Set Zone Default Configuration (Control Code 0x22)

o This command is used to set the Machine Interface default functionality.

Set Control Mode (Control Code 0x42)

o This command is used to switch between remote and local control. The

Machine Interface inputs are enabled when in Remote Control.

Read Control Mode (Control Code 0x43)

o This command is used to read the remote / local control mode. The Machine

Interface inputs are enabled when in Remote Control mode.

Read Zone Digital IO Block (Control Code 0x71)

o This command is used to read the current state of the digital I/O.

Refer to SM-S00499, Fiber Laser Serial Communications Protocol, for the exact structure and

implementation of the above serial protocol commands.





113

12 Alarm and Warning Messages

12.1 Alarm Code Definitions

Each alarm code contains information about the zone, and module associated with the failure.

It can be broken down as follows:

Alarm Code = ZMNN

Where

Z is the zone associated with the alarm as described in Table 3 above.

M is the module number to identify devices where there is more than one.

NN is the alarm code identifying the problem.

12.1.1 PRISM FL Module Zone Alarms

Code Description

8m01 Module Communications Failure

8m02 Temperature 1 Fault






8m08 Snap Switch Faulty

8m09 Memory corruption fault

8m10 Auxiliary Power Supply Low Fault

8m11 Driver Power Supply not Present

8m12 Fiber Failure

8m13 BDO Open

8m14 BDO Short

8m15 Humidity

8m16 Internal Communications Failure

8m17 Unexpected Emission





114

Code Description

8m18 Driver Negative Power Supply Failure

8m19 PLC Driver Output Fault

12.1.2 System Zone Alarms

Code Description

1102 System configuration memory failure. Unknown configuration data loaded.

QUBE Fiber Laser will not operate. Factory configuration setup required.

1120 Serial communications failure

1123 Ethernet communications failure

1130 HPFL – Combiner base plate - High temperature

1131 High internal optics temperature

1133 HPFL – LCMS Cover Temperature

1160 Serial watchdog timeout

1162 Ethernet watchdog timeout

12.1.3 Control Zone Alarms

Code Description

2101 Modulation frequency error – Frequency demand out of range

2102 Update error – Attempted parameter update failed

2103 Peak current demand error – Peak current demand out of range

2105 Ramp time error – Ramp timing out of range

12.1.4 Modulator Zone Alarms

Code Description

3m02 QUBE FL Module fault

3m03 QUBE FL Module communications failure

3m04 QUBE FL Module communications failure





115

12.1.5 Fiber Zone Alarms

Code Description

4m01 HPFL – Case

4m02 FCMS fault

4m03 Fiber output housing over temperature

4m04 Power monitor signal out of range

4m05 Excessive peak back reflections detected

4m06 Excessive back reflections detected

12.1.6 Machine Interface Zone Alarms

Code Description

5101 Configuration memory failure, defaults loaded.

12.1.7 GUI Zone Alarms

Code Description

6101 Serial communications fault

12.1.8 Pump diode PSU Zone Alarms

Code Description

7101 Pump diode PSU 1 failed

7102 Pump diode PSU 1 voltage dip detected

12.2 Warning Code Definitions

Each warning code contains information about the zone, and module associated with the

failure. It can be broken down as follows:

Warning Code = ZMNN

Where

Z is the zone associated with the warning as described in Table 3 above.

M is the module number to identify devices where there is more than one.

NN is the warning code identifying the problem.





116

12.2.1 QUBE FL Module Zone Warnings

Code Description

8m51 QUBE FL Module Disabled

8m52 Temperature 1 Warning






8m58 Calibration Warning

8m59 Therm Fault

8m60 Humidity Warning

8m61 Calibration Failed

8m62 Fan Failed

12.2.2 System Zone Warnings

Code Description

1102 Unknown Configuration.

1108 Parameter defaults in use.

1120 Serial communications buffer approaching full

1121 Serial communications buffer full. Messages will be rejected until space

available.

1122 Ethernet communications buffer approaching full

1123 Ethernet communications buffer full. Messages will be rejected until space

available.

1130 High laser tray temperature

1131 High internal optics temperature

1133 High diode tray temperature

1148 Modulator fault detected

1150 Shape data has been reset

1151 Segment data has been reset





117

Code Description

1152 Process cycle data reset

1153 Process cycles step data reset

12.2.3 Control Zone Warnings

Code Description

2101 Ramp up incomplete

2102 Ramp down incomplete

2103 Ramp between parameters incomplete

2104 In safe mode following optical fault detection

2105 Modulation frequency error – Frequency demand out of range

2106 Fiber pierce frequency error – Frequency demand out of range

12.2.4 Fiber Zone Warnings

Code Description

4m01 LPFL - Burn back protection disabled

HPFL - Main power monitor burn back protection disabled

4m02 FCMS circuit broken

4m03 Fiber output housing over temperature

4m04 Back reflection protection disabled

4m05 Excessive back reflections detected

12.2.5 Machine Interface Zone Alarms

Code Description

5101 Using default Machine Interface configuration

12.2.6 PSU Zone Warnings

Code Description

7150 PSU not present.

7151 PSU charge fault





118

13 Maintenance

WARNING: Never attempt to modify internal or external

components not covered in this section.

Doing so may lead to serious personal injury, performance

degradation and premature failure

The QUBE Fiber Laser is designed to be maintenance free. There are no parts or mechanical

items within the QUBE Fiber Laser that require replacement during the specified operating life

of the QUBE Fiber Laser. However periodic inspection of the QUBE Fiber Laser is

recommended.

13.1 Periodic Inspection

The items listed below should be inspected periodically for damage which may affect the safe

operation of the QUBE Fiber Laser. The frequency of the inspection will depend on the

environment in which the QUBE Fiber Laser is installed.

The enclosure

The conduit

The optical connector

The electrical connections

The water connections and hoses

It is important that cooling water connections and hoses are regularly inspected and

maintained in order to reduce the possibility of leakage or external component failure.

Refer to Sections 7.4 for instructions regarding water cooling connection and disconnection

from the QUBE Fiber Laser.

13.2 General Cleaning

CAUTION: Do not operate the QUBE Fiber Laser if any of the

hazard warning labels are missing or damaged such that they

cannot be read properly.

Occasionally, the outside of the QUBE Fiber Laser may require cleaning to assure full and

clear visibility of the warning labels. Before cleaning disconnect the QUBE Fiber Laser from

the power supplies. Clean only with a clean damp cloth and if any labels become displaced

contact SPI Lasers immediately for replacements.





119

13.3 Cleaning Optics

The cleanliness of all optical surfaces is critically important. Contamination in the optical path

from environmental dirt or dust, or finger grease from incorrect handling must be avoided as

the contamination will be burned into the optical surface causing permanent damage. Before

being exposed to high power, connector end faces should be inspected, preferably with a

magnifying aid, and cleaned if any contamination is observed.

If the window on the BDO is damaged, or too dirty to clean, replacements are available to

order from SPI Lasers.

Table 18 Replacement Windows

BDO Replacement Window

PIPA-Q PS-A01683

14 Disposal

At end of life, this QUBE Fiber Laser should be separately collected from unsorted waste with

a view to meeting the recovery and recycling targets specified in the appropriate national

regulations implementing the WEEE Directive on waste electrical and electronic equipment

(WEEE) for a product of its class.

15 General Information

15.1 Trade Marks

The SPI Lasers logo, SPI, GTWave, redPOWER and redENERGY are trademarks

(registered or applied for) of SPI Lasers in at least one of the United States of America, the

United Kingdom, the European Community and China, and in various other territories

throughout the world. All other trademarks are the property of their registered owners.

15.2 Licensing

This QUBE Fiber Laser carries no licence by IMRA America, Inc. for pulsed operation less

than 100ps.

15.3 Software

Any software forming part of this equipment should be used only for the purpose for which it

was supplied by SPI Lasers. No changes, modifications or copies (except for producing a

necessary back-up copy) shall be undertaken by the User.





120

SPI Lasers accepts no responsibility for equipment malfunction resulting from any of the

above actions.

15.4 Warranties

SPI Lasers makes no warranties, expressed or implied, including and without limitation

warranties as to merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose except as expressly set

forth in the standard Terms and Conditions of sale.

15.5 Copyright

Copyright SPI Lasers. All rights reserved. You may not reproduce, transmit, store in a retrieval

system or adapt this publication, in any form or by any means, without the prior written

permission of SPI Lasers, except as allowed under applicable copyright laws. The information

contained herein is confidential and is the property of SPI Lasers. No part may be reproduced,

disclosed or used except as authorised by contract or other written permission. The copyright

and the foregoing restriction on reproduction and use extend to all media in which the

information may be embodied.

15.6 Changes

These Instructions for Use is supplied without liability for errors or omissions. SPI Lasers

reserves the right to change the information and specifications contained in these Instructions

for Use without prior notice.





121

16 Contact Information

Table 19 Contact Information

UK Head Office and

Manufacturing

Facility

US Corporate Office China Office Korea Office

SPI Lasers UK

Limited SPI Lasers LLC

SPI Lasers

(Shanghai) Co., Ltd.

SPI Lasers Korea

Ltd.

6 Wellington Park

Hedge End

Southampton

SO30 2QU

UK

Tel: +44 (0)1489

779696

4000 Burton Drive

Santa Clara

CA 95054

USA

Tel: +1 408 454 1169

Room 108, Building 3

No. 7 Guiqing Road

Caohejing Hi-tech

Park

Shanghai 200233

China

Tel: +86 (0) 21 6171

9470

#508, DMC Tower

1622 Sangam-dong

Mapo-gu

Seoul

Korea

Tel:+82 2 3151 9591

Customer Services

[email protected]

Tel: +44 (0)1489 779696 - Option 5

Company Web Site

www.spilasers.com

Product Support

[email protected]

Tel: +44 (0)1489 779696 - Option 2

[email protected]

Contact your local office number

Or contact your local distributor.

17 General Specifications

The following section describes the operating and performance specifications of the QUBE

Fiber Laser. Included are details of the utilities required for installation and operation. Before

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.spilasers.com/

mailto:[email protected]





122

attempting to install or integrate the QUBE Fiber Laser, please read this section to ensure all

requirements are understood.

17.1 Operating Conditions

This QUBE Fiber Laser is designed for indoor use and to be safe when operated within the

environmental conditions given in Table 20 and at the mains voltages given in Table 22.

Table 20 Environmental Operating Conditions

Parameter Units Value

Temperature (Operating) °C 5 – 45

Humidity (Operating) % RH 5 – 85 (non-condensing)

Altitude m <2000

This QUBE Fiber Laser is sealed against dust and water ingress to IP52 to BS EN

60529:1992+A2:2013 with the exception of the electrical connectors which are rated IP50.

The laser integrator should ensure that when installed the QUBE Fiber Laser is not exposed to

water.

Note that auxiliary equipment is required to operate the QUBE Fiber Laser. The environmental

operating conditions of the auxiliary equipment must be observed.

This QUBE Fiber Laser should not be installed in a corrosive atmosphere.

This QUBE Fiber Laser should not be exposed to high levels of optical radiation, for instance

laser or other radiation from materials processing.

Water must not be allowed to condense on or in the QUBE Fiber Laser. Condensation can be

avoided by using cooling water at a temperature appropriate to the local humidity. Figure 67

can be used to determine if the atmosphere is condensing. The solid lines cover the permitted

cooling water temperatures for the QUBE Fiber Laser. For example, if the ambient air

temperature is 25°C and the relative humidity is 40% then there will be no condensation for

any cooling water temperature in the specified range as the condition is below the 18°C

cooling water curve. However, if the ambient air temperature is 30°C and the relative humidity

is 80% then the cooling water temperature should be above 26°C, and preferably 30°C, to

prevent condensation.

Alternatively, as the QUBE Fiber Laser includes a solenoid valve which regulates the flow of

cooling water to keep the internal surfaces above the dew point, a cooling water temperature

below the dew point may be used.





123

Figure 67 Environmental Conditions for Non-Condensing Operation

Water must not be allowed to condense on or in the optics. The dashed and solid lines in

Figure 67 cover the permitted cooling water temperatures for the PIPA-Q optical connector

and can be used to determine if the atmosphere is condensing. For example, if the ambient air

temperature is 25°C and the relative humidity is 40% then there will be no condensation for

any cooling water temperature in the specified range as the condition is below the 15°C

cooling water curve. However, if the ambient air temperature is 35°C and the relative humidity

is 80% then the cooling water temperature should be 35°C to prevent condensation.

17.2 Non-Operating Conditions

Table 21 Non-Operating Conditions


Temperature (Storage)4 °C 0 to +70

Humidity (Storage) % RH 0 – 95 (non-condensing)

4 Below 2°C the cooling circuit must be drained to prevent freezing





124

17.3 Utility Requirements 17.3.1 Mains Power Requirement

The QUBE Cased Fiber Laser is powered by mains electricity. The supply requirements for all

QUBE Cased Fiber Lasers are given in Table 22. The power consumptions for QUBE Cased

Fiber Lasers with different rated powers are given in Table 23. The ranges of maximum supply

currents given in Table 23 correspond to the range of rated voltage given in Table 22, with

higher voltages requiring lower currents.

Table 22 Electrical Requirements

Parameter Units Min Max

Supply phases - 1 1

Rated voltage

(rated output power ≤500W)

V AC 100 240

Rated voltage

(rated output power >500W

V AC 200 240

Rated voltage tolerance) % 10

Frequency Hz 47 63

Table 23 Power Consumption

Rated Power Units

300 500 750 1000 1500 W

Typical power consumption 1.1 1.8 2.7 3.6 5.4 kW

Maximum power

consumption

1.2 2 3 4 6 kW

Maximum supply current 7 – 5.5 11 – 9 16 - 14 22 – 18 32 – 27 A

17.3.2 Cooling Water Requirements

The QUBE Fiber Laser requires water cooling. The base plate within the body of the PRISM

FL Module has a cooling circuit. The PIPA-Q optical connector has a separate water cooling

circuit.

Requirements for the cooling water are given in Table 24. Permitted temperature ranges and

required flow rates, together with other parameters, for the base plate and PIPA-Q optical

connector are given in Table 25 and Table 27.





125

Table 24 Cooling Water Requirements

Parameter Min Max Units

Appearance Clear and without sediment -

Particle size - 100 μm

Hardness (mg CaCO3 per litre) - 300 mg/l

Electrical Conductivity At 25°C 22 2200 μScm-1

pH 6.5 9.0 -

Drinkable tap water is likely to meet these requirements, and water meeting the requirements

of VDI3803, Appendix B, Table B3 does.

When designing the water cooling system, the Laser Integrator should consider that:

deionised water is not permitted in the cooling circuit as the generally high levels of

dissolved O2 and CO2 in deionised water cause corrosion.

as the cooling circuit of the base plate is copper and the internal surfaces of the

PIPA-Q optical connector are nickel-plated and stainless steel, aluminium and plain

carbon or low alloy steels should not be used as galvanic corrosion may occur.

Galvanic corrosion occurs if materials with widely different electrochemical potentials

are used. Stainless steel and insulating materials (polymers) may be used.

the temperatures specified for the cooling water may sustain bacterial growth. Bacterial

growth may reduce both the flow rate and the efficiency of heat transfer as well as

being a health hazard.

hard water (water that has high mineral content) may cause scaling in the cooling

circuit reducing both the flow rate and the efficiency of heat transfer.

pre-treated water and additives for prevention of corrosion, scaling and microbial

growth are available commercially, for example from NALCO and Optishield. Additives

may reduce the heat capacity of the water. The flow rate must be increased to

compensate.

Table 25 Cooling Requirements (Connection to Manifold)

Parameter Min Max Units Notes

Cooling Water

Temperature

18 30 ºC It is important that internal condensation will not

occur. Refer to Section 17.1.

Input Pressure - 6 bar

Flow Rate 10 l/min/kW At 20°C water temperature.

Pressure Drop - 2 bar For QUBE Fiber Lasers having a medium case.

Refer to Table 32





126


Pressure Drop - 2.5 bar For QUBE Fiber Lasers having a long case.

Refer to Table 32

Table 26 Required Chiller Capacity

Rated Power 300W 500W 750W 1000W 1500W Units

Chiller Capacity 0.9 1.5 2.3 3.0 4.5 kW

Table 27 Cooling Requirements (Connection to PIPA-Q Optical Connector)


Cooling Water

Temperature

15 35 ºC It is important that condensation will not occur.

Refer to Section 17.1.

Input Pressure - 6 bar

Flow Rate 0.5 2 l/min/kW At 20°C water temperature.

Pressure Drop 1.6 5 bar

Chiller Capacity 0.5 - kW

18 Optical Specifications

18.1 General Optical Specifications

Table 28 General Optical Specifications


Rated Output Power (CW, EOL)5 W 300, 500, 750, 1000, 1500

Electro-optical Conversion Efficiency (Nominal) % 27%

Modes of Operation -

CW

Analogue modulation

Digital modulation

Polarisation - Random

Central Emission Wavelength nm 1075 ±7

Emission Bandwidth (FWHM) nm ≤10

5 Rated output power for variants with bare fiber is increased by 4%





127


Output Power Tunability (CW)6 % 10 - 100

Alignment

Laser

Emission Wavelength nm 630 – 680

Maximum Output Power mW 1.0

Analogue Modulation Bandwidth kHz 20

Digital Modulation Bandwidth kHz 20

Rise Time7 µs 5

Fall Time8 µs 6

18.2 Optical Output – PIPA-Q Optical Connector

The tables below give the properties of the output beam for single mode and 50µm and

100µm core diameter multimode fibers.

Table 29 Single Mode Optical Specifications

Parameter Units Value Comment

Mode Field Diameter µm 18 Nominal

M2 - ≤1.2

Beam Divergence mrad 84 ±12 Full angle

2nd moment of area

Beam Divergence mrad ≤140 Full angle

99.5% power enclosed

Table 30 50µm Multimode Optical Specifications


Core diameter µm 50 Nominal

BPP mm.mrad 2.1 ±0.6

Beam Divergence mrad 170 Full angle

2nd moment of area

Beam Divergence mrad ≤300 Fulll angle


6 For stable operation at percentage of rated output power

7 10%-90% rated power, 20kHz modulation frequency, 50% duty cycle

8 90%-10% rated power, 20kHz modulation frequency, 50% duty cycle





128

Table 31 100µm Multimode Optical Specifications


Core diameter µm 100 Nominal

BPP mm.mrad 3.3 ±1.4

Beam Divergence mrad 130 Full angle

2nd moment of area

Beam Divergence mrad ≤260

Full angle


19 Mechanical Specifications

19.1 Overall Dimensions and Masses

For detailed dimensions refer to FS-S00138, QUBE Cased Fiber 500W to 1kW Installation

Drawing. A simplified drawing is shown in Figure 68. The length of the case, denoted X in

Figure 68 can be found from the ‘Power’ and ‘Housing’ categories of the order code, shown in

bold in the representative order code below.

SP-1000-C-W-020-10-PIQ-012-001-001.

Table 32 Case Lengths and Masses

Rated

Power

W

‘Housing’

character

Length X

mm

Estimated

mass

kg

Estimated mass with

transport frame

kg

Comment

300 0 681 60 66 Medium case

500 0 681 60 66 Medium case

750 0 681 60 66 Medium case

1000 0 681 60 66 Medium case

1000 B 832 87 95 Long case

1500 0 832 87 95 Long case





129

Figure 68 Overall Dimensions





130

19.2 PIPA-Q Optical Connector

Figure 69 PIPA-Q Optical connector

Table 33 Mechanical Specifications – PIPA-Q Optical Connector


Connector Length mm 126.5

Connector Diameter mm 34.0

Cable Diameter mm 11.9

Cable Material (External) - Anti-abrasion polyurethane (yellow)

Minimum Bend Radius mm 150

Maximum Tensile Load N 200





131

Figure 70 Outline Drawing – PIPA-Q Beam Delivery Optic

The PIPA-Q connector is provided with two contacts which must be short-circuited to complete

the integrity circuit. Generally the receiver on the process head, beam switch etc into which

the connector is inserted will perform this function so ensuring that the integrity circuit cannot

be closed until the connector is correctly installed. The contacts must not be connected to

ground.

20 Customer Service

In the unlikely event that the QUBE Fiber Laser requires attention outside the scope of the

maintenance requirements given in Section 9, contact SPI Lasers for advice on further on-site

fault diagnosis and/or return of the QUBE Fiber Laser. Contact information is given in Section

16.

When contacting SPI Lasers, please have the following information at hand:

The order code.

The serial number.

The number of accumulated laser hours.

Typical operating parameters.

Any other relevant information (e.g. fault codes and descriptions) that would assist in

fault diagnosis.

If the QUBE Fiber Laser requires fault-diagnosis or servicing or is to be returned to SPI

Lasers, it is the system integrator’s responsibility to remove the QUBE Fiber Laser from the

integrated laser system and make it safe and, if the QUBE Fiber Laser is to be returned to SPI

Lasers, to ensure that all relevant return documentation is in place before shipment. Details of

documentation requirements and copies can be obtained where required from SPI Lasers.





132

The QUBE Fiber Laser must be drained of all cooling water and the bungs fitted to all pipes

prior to shipment. If the QUBE Fiber Laser is shipped without the bungs fitted then any

residual cooling water will escape during transit and may cause permanent damage.

Pack the QUBE Fiber Laser in the original packaging and include all original accessories and

documentation as detailed in the original inventory. The correct and original packaging should

be used to prevent damage in transit. If all or part of the original packaging is unavailable,

contact SPI Lasers for replacement items. Please take time to complete all return

documentation, which can be obtained from SPI Lasers. Accurate details, diagnosis and

comments in the documentation reduce turnaround time for repair at SPI Lasers.

On request, SPI Lasers will supply a report detailing faults found and repairs carried out

necessary to return the QUBE Fiber Laser to full operational specification.

redPOWER QUBE Cased Fiber Laser User Manual...7.8 Connecting and Disconnecting the PIPA-Q Optical...

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Transcript of redPOWER QUBE Cased Fiber Laser User Manual...7.8 Connecting and Disconnecting the PIPA-Q Optical...