+31 40 8080 193Small Format Laser Metal Cutter: Compact and Powerful for Precision Work
For companies and workshops that want to cut metal but have limited space, a small size laser metal cutter the ideal solution. In this guide we discuss the benefits of compact laser cutters, their applications and why the MetaQuip FC6060 or FC1390 are excellent choices for prototyping and small production runs.
Table of contents
Benefits of a Small Format Laser Metal Cutter
A compact laser metal cutter offers several advantages over larger machines:
- Space saving: Ideal for small workshops or businesses with limited floor space.
- Cost-saving: Lower purchase price and less energy consumption than larger models.
- User friendly: Compact models are often easier to install and operate.
- Suitable for precision work: Perfect for prototyping, laser cutting smaller parts from sheet metal. The workbed of the FC6060 is approximately 60 x 60cm and of the FC1390 130cm x 90cm
Advantage of FC6060 for Prototyping
The MetaQuip FC6060 is a small laser metal cutter which is specially designed for prototyping and small series. With a size of 180 cm wide, 145 cm deep and 177 cm high This machine easily fits into smaller workshops.
Key Features:
- High cutting accuracy – Suitable for fine detailed work. Usually no post-processing required.
- Suitable for laser cutting of various metals and sheet materials. – Cuts steel, stainless steel, aluminum and copper.
- Efficient fiber laser technology – Faster and more energy efficient than CO₂ lasers.
Which Small Laser Metal Cutter to Buy?
When choosing a small laser metal cutter there are some important factors to consider:
- Cutting force & power – What thickness and materials do you want to cut?
- Dimensions – Does the machine fit in your workshop?
- Ease of use – Is the software intuitive and easy to set up?
- Price & budget – Are you looking for a affordable small laser metal cutter or an advanced model?
For companies or schools that are just starting out laser metal cutting for a small workshop, is the MetaQuip FC6060 an excellent choice. Are you looking for a larger model? Then the FC1390 (229 cm wide, 226 cm deep, 177 cm high) is an option. For more professional use we also have the FC1510 and its bigger brothers.
How Much Does a Small Format Laser Metal Cutter Cost?
Looking for a affordable and compact fiber laser for cutting metal? Our small laser metal cutters offer the perfect balance of precision, efficiency and affordability. Ideal for technical schools, small metalworking companies and workshops, these machines cut with extreme precision without post-processing.
Thanks to the advanced fiber laser technology materials such as stainless steel, aluminum and carbon steel can be cut effortlessly. With a low energy consumption and minimal maintenance costs This machine is a cost-effective solution for customization, prototyping and small production runs.
The price of a compact fiber laser metal cutter depends on:
- The laser power (for example 500W, 1000W, 1500W)
- The cutting capacity (maximum thickness of the metal)
- Additional accessories such as a water cooler or filter system
Do you want a buy small laser metal cutter? Our machines start including water cooler around 35k EURO. Then there are additional costs for industrial extraction and filter units.
Required Space for Peripherals in a Small Format Laser Metal Cutter
MetaQuip's small laser metal cutters such as the FC6060 and FC1390 require additional space all around for essential peripherals such as a water cooler (chiller), industrial air filter and (if used) spark arrestorThe exact space required will vary depending on the models and configuration of these devices, but a general guideline is:
1. Water cooler (chiller)
- Dimensions: Usually round 600 x 600 x 1000 mm (WxDxH), depending on the model.
- Placement: Close to the laser source, but with adequate ventilation.
- Space needed: Minimum 1 m², ideally with 50 cm all around for maintenance.
2. Industrial filter/extraction
- Dimensions: Vary widely, average 800 x 800 x 1500 mm.
- Placement: Close to the machine, with sufficient space for hose connections.
- Space needed: Minimum 1.5 m², including free space for maintenance.
3. Spark Arrestor (if needed)
- Dimensions: approx. 500 x 500 x 800 mm
- Placement: between the laser machine and the industrial air filter/extractor
- Space needed: 1 m² or more.
Total additional space required
For an efficient and safe workspace around these laser machines, reserve minimum 3 – 4 m² extra for peripherals, excluding walkways and workspace. Also provide adequate ventilation and access for maintenance. Despite the extra space required for peripherals, the FC6060 and FC1390 Thanks to their compact dimensions, they are an excellent choice for smaller workshops. Compared to larger industrial laser systems, these machines take up less floor space while still offering professional cutting quality and efficiency. Because the peripherals can be flexibly positioned, the workspace can be optimally arranged without unnecessary loss of space. This makes it possible to use a high-quality fiber laser cutter with limited space, ideal for customization, small series and prototyping within SMEs and technical schools.
Applications and Possibilities for Schools
MetaQuip's compact fiber laser cutters offer exciting possibilities for technical schools and training centers. Students can learn to work with advanced laser technology, preparing them for a future in metalworking and industrial sectors. The precision of the machine makes it possible to cut complex designs and prototypes without post-processing, giving students direct insight into the production process. This provides a hands-on learning experience and stimulates creative and technical thinking. In addition, these machines are compact and energy-efficient, making them a good fit for a school environment with limited space and budgets.
Uses and Benefits for Small Metalworking Companies
For small metalworking companies, these small format laser metal cutters can be an efficient and cost-effective solution for producing parts and custom products. Thanks to the high cutting accuracy and the ability to process various metals, companies can remain competitive without investing in expensive post-processing processes. The machine is also easy to operate, which means less specialist knowledge is required to deliver high-quality products. This makes the FC6060 and FC1390 ideal for customization, small series and prototyping, allowing companies to respond flexibly to customer wishes and market demand.
Conclusion: The Best Small Format Laser Metal Cutters
A compact metal cutter is perfect for businesses and workshops that have limited space but still want to produce high-quality cuts. The MetaQuip FC6060 offers an excellent balance of size, power and precision, and is ideal for prototyping and small production seriesThe FC1390 is just a size bigger and offers the possibility to process larger plates directly.
Do you have any questions about which small laser metal cutter best suits your needs? Take contact a specialist and discover which solution is most suitable for you!
MetaQuip's Portfolio Small Format Laser Metal Cutters – Prototyping Series
The Prototyping Series is perfect for small production runs and educational applications, where compactness and simplicity are key. These machines have a small footprint and are manually loaded, making them ideal for workshops and classrooms. With a power of up to 1.5 kW, they are ideal for cutting thin metal sheets. They are also equipped with the intuitive Cypcut laser software and offer optional extra safety with laser class 1, making them accessible and safe for a wide range of users.
Fiber laser cutter ProtoSmall – FC6060
The FC6060 fiber laser for processing flat sheet material is the ideal machine for small workshops or cutting thin foils. The work area is equipped with a material clamping system to hold foils during laser cutting. The compact design has integrated all components (except water cooler and air filter) and with the CypCut software any vector image can be easily converted into a product.
High precision laser cutting of carbon steel, stainless steel, brass plate and other metals, without further finishing. Laser powers from 500 to 1000W.
Work surface: 60 x 60cm
Laser power: 500-1kW
Dimensions [L x D x H]: 180 x 145 x 177cm
Schools and SMEs.
Fiber laser cutter ProtoMedium - FC1390
The FC1390 fiber flatbed laser is ideal for schools and medium-sized workshops that require sheet metal processing, allowing prototyping and on-site adjustments. The machine makes it possible to manually process plates up to 1x1.3m. The CypCut laser software enables a quick transition from drawing to product.
High precision laser cutting of carbon steel, stainless steel, brass plate and other metals, without further post-processing. Laser powers from 500 to 1500W.
Work surface 1300 x 900mm
Laser power: 1-2kW
Dimensions [L x D x H]: 229 x 226 x 177 cm
Schools and SMEs.
Fiber laser cutter ProtoLarge – FC1510/2010/3015
These machines are at the edge of what can be defined as a small format laser metal cutter, but they are often seen as a small laser machine in production environments. These metal laser cutters come in 3 sizes:
FC1510 workbed of 1500 x 1000mm
FC2010 workbed of 2000 x 1000mm
FC3015 workbed of 3000 x 1500mm
These machines are designed to handle thick and solid products, while maintaining a compact machine design. The pull-out bed allows easy loading and unloading of the material, because it makes the bed accessible to the operator/cranes and prevents heavy lifting. The strong frame, rack-and-pinion servo drive provides high and precise speed to enable the processing of any design.
Industrial laser cutting of, among others, carbon steel, stainless steel, brass sheet and other metals, without further finishing. Laser powers from 500 to 6kW. Ergonomic design.
For prototyping and flexible production.
Work surface: 1500 x 1000mm, 2000 x 1000mm or 3000 x 1500mm
Laser power: 1-6kW
Dimensions [L x D x H]: 350 x 250 x 240 cm (FC1510, FC2010 and FC3015 are larger!)
Frequently Asked Questions
What materials can a small format fiber laser cut?
A fiber laser such as the FC6060 or FC1390 can cut metals such as stainless steel, carbon steel, aluminum, copper, and brass. Non-metals such as wood or plastic cannot be cut with a fiber laser.
Is a fiber laser suitable for educational applications in technical schools?
Yes, fiber lasers are very suitable for technical education. Students learn to work with advanced CNC technology and CAD/CAM software, which increases their technical skills and employability in industry.
How much space does a small format fiber laser need?
In addition to the machine itself (for example the FC1390), additional space must be reserved for peripheral equipment such as a water cooler, exhaust system and compressor. In total, minimum 3-4 m² extra space needed.
How safe is a fiber laser in a school or workplace environment?
Fiber lasers are safe when used correctly. They often have a closed workspace with a protective cover and a safety class (class 1) so that no further laser safety measures need to be taken. The laser safety has been tested by external experts in the field of laser safety.
What are the key benefits for small metalworking companies?
• High precision and cutting quality without post-processing.
• Low operating costs due to efficient energy use.
• Suitable for custom work, small series and prototyping.
• Relatively compact and easy to integrate into an existing workshop.
How much maintenance does a small format fiber laser require?
Maintenance consists of regular cleaning of the lenses, checking the cooling and air filters and occasionally calibrating the machine. With good maintenance, the lifespan of the laser source often remains more than 100,000 hours.
Is specialized training required to operate a fiber laser?
No, basic knowledge of CAD/CAM software and CNC machines is sufficient. MetaQuip offers training, and most lasers have user-friendly software that allows users to get started quickly.
What software is needed to work with a fiber laser cutter?
Typically, CAD programs such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks are used to create designs, and CAM software such as Cypcut to control the laser.
What is the power consumption of a small format fiber laser?
Power consumption varies depending on laser power. A 1 kW fiber laser consumes an average of 5-7 kW/h, including the water cooler and exhaust. This is considerably more efficient than conventional cutting techniques.
How does a fiber laser compare to other cutting techniques such as plasma cutting or waterjet cutting?
• Fiber lasers: High precision, suitable for thin to medium sheet metal, no post-processing required.
• Plasma cutting: Faster for thicker materials (>6 mm), but less accurate and often requires post-processing.
• Waterjet cutting: Very versatile, but slow and more expensive due to water and abrasive consumption.
