Precision Copper Tube Cutting for Serbian Radiators: Customized LX-K3S Case Study

Copper is the "gold standard" in the radiator and heat exchange industry due to its superior thermal conductivity. However, processing copper tubes—especially thin-walled ones—is notoriously difficult.

Recently, LX Cutting Machine delivered a breakthrough solution to a client in Serbia, helping them revolutionize their production line for high-end copper radiators.

1. Project Background & Challenge

The client is a leading Serbian manufacturer focusing on high-efficiency radiators. Their raw materials are expensive Copper Tubes, and precision is critical to avoid costly waste.

Specific Material Requirements :

• Material: Red Copper / Brass 

• Tube Dimensions :

• 35mm × 1.5mm

• 28mm × 1.5mm

• 16mm × 0.8mm (The most difficult part )

The Technical Hurdles :

1. High Reflectivity : Copper reflects laser beams, which can damage standard laser heads if not properly configured.

2. Soft Material Deformation : Copper is much softer than steel. Traditional clamping on a 16mm x 0.8mm tube often crushes the pipe into an oval shape.

3. Burr Issues : Mechanical sawing leaves sticky copper burrs inside the tube, blocking fluid flow in radiators.

2. The Solution: Customized LX-K3S with 40-Chuck

To handle the delicate nature of copper, LX Cutting Machine engineered a specialized version of our popular LX-K3S Small Tube Laser Cutter.

Key Customizations :

• Customized 40-Type Precision Chuck :
  Unlike standard general-purpose chucks, this 40-type chuck is designed for small diameters (under 40mm). It features sensitive pressure control, ensuring it holds the 0.8mm wall copper tube firmly without deforming it.
  

• Optimized Laser Source for Copper :
  We equipped the machine with a laser source specifically tuned to handle high-reflective materials, ensuring stable cutting energy absorption and protecting the lens
  

• Debris-Free Cutting :
  The laser process vaporizes the copper instantly, leaving a clean, dross-free edge ready for brazing or welding.
  
  

3. Production Impact in Serbia

Since integrating the customized LX-K3S, the Serbian client has achieved:

• 0% Deformation Rate: The 16mm tubes remain perfectly circular, ensuring tight seals during radiator assembly.

• Material Savings: Given the high price of copper, the precise nesting and narrow kerf (cut width) save significant material costs per year.

• 3x Faster Cycle Time: Laser cutting is significantly faster than their previous sawing method for these small diameters.

4. Why LX Cutting Machine for Copper?

Cutting steel is easy; cutting thin copper requires expertise. Our success in Serbia demonstrates our ability to customize machines for non-ferrous metals and delicate thin-walled applications.

Industry Application:

• Air Conditioning & Refrigeration (HVAC)

• Automotive Radiators

• Heat Exchangers

Do not let material challenges limit your efficiency. Whether you are cutting stainless steel in Europe or copper pipes in Serbia, LX Cutting Machine has the engineering capability to build the right tool for you.

Need to cut copper or brass tubes efficiently?