KLM Microlaser was founded in 2019 by Ekkehard Alschweig and emerged from a joint project between Kern Microtechnik GmbH and Lightmotif B.V. The goal was to integrate laser technology in the femto second range on a Kern machine platform. The combination of expertise on both sides led to the first prototype which targets the tool and die production.
KLM SE
KLM EA1
KLM EA2
Video KLM SF
The KLM E1 is a 3-axis laser micro-milling system using a femto second laser source, making it suitable for the most difficult to machine materials. The machine is based on a proven high-precision KERN motion platform and state-of-the-art laser micro-machining control software. The system is designed for accurate lasermicro-milling of small workpieces. In contrast to conventional milling machines the KLM-E1 has a low energy consumption, uses no oil or other liquids, requires no chip removal and has a low noise emission level, making it a sustainable production system. The prototype was further developed into the first series products Kern Femto E3 and Kern Femto E5 and successfully integrated into the Kern machine portfolio.
Integrated measurement systems in the workspace record the focus position and the power of the laser beam as well as the X and Y position across the entire scan field. Deviations of spot position and laser power are detected and calibrated directly on the part in a stable process.
Adaptive Machining realizes the entire automatic measurement of the actual abrasion of the material - even during machining. The measurement results are compared with the target contour and further machining is adapted accordingly. This provides automatic compensation and reduces errors. It is possible to machine the tiniest shape tolerances.
Laser micro-milling using ultrashort pulse lasers makes it possible to machine accurately shaped structures with very small features into nearly any material. The process allows removal of extremely thin layers and is especially interesting for machining of very hard materials or delicate parts. A typical application is machining of stamp tools in cemented tungsten carbide, for which a specific laser process was developed that is fast, precise and results in a low surface roughness. Machining of an insert press tool typically takes only 2 hours of laser machining time, and in contrast to EDM machining, it does not require consumables or electrodes. The laser process significantly reduces the production costs, is simple to use and fulfills the highest customer demands in quality.
Other applications are press and forming tools for automotive, coins and watch industry.
Laser micro-texturing using ultrashort pulse lasers is a new technology for applying surface textures with fine micron sized features and a high depth resolution to nearly any material. The fine textures make it possible to change functional properties of surfaces, like reduction of friction or change of optical properties. Textures can be directly applied to parts or to tools like injection molds. The functional textures then can be transferred to parts during the molding process.
Although the currently offered KLM-E1 machine is limited to 3 axes, we can already perform application development in our R&D facilities at Lightmotif on an accurate 5-axis system. Together with specifically developed CAM software this enables applying of fine textures to complex curved parts
KLM combines the Kern expertise around precision machine building with Lightmotifs years of experience in laser micro processing. We share a passion for µm-accurate machining and the motivation to be together two steps ahead of our environment.
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