When purchasing a fiber laser machine, various brands offer different fiber laser power sources, with origins ranging from China, the USA, to Germany. But which among them is the best? Which is the most cost-effective? And which is the most popular? This guide dives deep into these queries to help you choose the right machine for your application.
1. Brands Overview
1.1 Differences Among JPT, Max, Raycus, and IPG
The price difference isn't necessarily tied to the country of origin. The disparity lies in engraving results, machine quality, warranty duration, and material marking capabilities. The distinctions also span between Chinese and Singaporean power sources.
1.2 Engraving Materials
It might be challenging to determine which power source can engrave specific materials, but the engraving quality can be a revealing factor.
1.3 Popularity of Brands
The fiber laser engraving machine industry primarily leans towards four brands: Raycus, BCF, JPT, and IPG. Despite the presence of over 30 brands, these stand out due to their distinct advantages.
2. Deep Dive into Popular Brands
2.1 Raycus
- Origin: China
- Advantages: Low cost, which leads to lower machine prices.
- Disadvantages: Lesser quality engraving, limited warranty, frequency range between 20 to 80 kHz, resulting in a restricted engraving material range.
2.2 JPT
- Origin: China
- Advantages: Known for quality and stability, especially in premium models like JPT-X or MOPA.
- Disadvantages: Limited frequency in low-cost models.
2.3 Max
- Origin: China
- Advantages: Better stability and warranty than Raycus.
- Disadvantages: Frequency range of 20 to 80 kHz, similar engraving material limitations as Raycus.
2.4 SPI
- Origin: Not specified
- Advantages: Renowned for high-quality engraving, stability, and warranty. Excels in engraving a wide variety of materials.
- Disadvantages: Not specified.
2.5 BCF
- Origin: Germany
- Advantages: Multifunctionality, capable of working between 1 to 850Khz. Offers high engraving stability, precision, and a 3-year warranty. Ideal for engraving metals, plastics, and leather.
2.6 IPG
- Origin: Global leader
- Advantages: Peerless in engraving quality, stability, and warranty. Wide technology range for specific material engraving.
2.7 Other Brands
Brands like SUPER and MAX have their specific advantages, ranging from a better frequency range to engraving clarity. The decision often boils down to factors like warranty, cost, and specific engraving needs.
3. Cost-Effectiveness Comparison
| Brand | Power Options | Warranty | Frequency Range | Laser Beam Precision | Engraving Materials |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BCF | 20W to 120W | 3 years | 1 to 850 kHz | 0.001 | All metals, various plastics |
| IPG | Not specified | 2 years | 1 to 200 kHz | 0.001 | Wide range |
| Max | 20W to 100W | 1 year | 1 to 120 kHz | 0.005 | All metals, few plastics |
| Raycus | 20W to 100W | 1 year | 20 to 80 kHz | 0.005 | All metals, few plastics |
3.1 The Best Option
The JPT premium or JPT-X emerges as the top choice due to its extensive kHz range, offering a broader engraving material palette with high resolution and stability. While pricier than Raycus or Max, it isn't as expensive as IPG, yet nearly matches its quality.
4. The Significance of kHz in Engraving
kHz setups vary when engraving different materials. A wider kHz range allows more setup parameters, enhancing the engraving of non-metal materials. This explains why JPT-X can engrave more non-metal materials than other fiber power sources.
