GF LASER P 600 U

New LASER P 600 U systems typically price between $500,000 and $800,000 depending on laser power configuration and software packages. A single 50 W laser setup falls at the lower end, while 100 W configurations with advanced software and automation features push toward the top. Used machines are very rarely available due to the specialized application and small install base.

The three models scale in workpiece capacity. The P 600 U handles parts up to 75 kg with 600 mm X-travel -- good for medium mold inserts. The P 1000 U extends to 150 kg capacity with 1,000 mm X-travel for larger mold components. The P 1200 U handles workpieces up to 1,200 kg with 1,200 mm of X, Y, and Z travel -- it's the machine for full-size mold halves and large automotive tooling. All share the same Ytterbium fiber laser technology and SPOT software platform.

The LASER S series (including the S 500 U) is the compact, high-precision platform for smaller workpieces up to 15 kg, offering femtosecond and nanosecond laser source options with tighter accuracy specifications. The LASER P series handles larger, heavier workpieces (75 to 1,200 kg depending on model) with Ytterbium fiber lasers. Choose the S for small precision parts like watch components, medical implants, and small mold inserts. Choose the P for larger mold halves, automotive tooling, and components too heavy for the S platform.

The machine can texture virtually any material that absorbs the Ytterbium fiber laser wavelength: tool steels (hardened and soft), stainless steels, aluminum, copper alloys, titanium, carbide, and most engineering plastics. The adjustable laser power (20-100 W) and multiple focal lengths let you optimize the process for different materials. Hardened tool steels above 60 HRC are a primary application since conventional texturing methods struggle with these materials.

Processing time varies enormously depending on texture pattern complexity, depth, surface area, and required quality. A simple grain texture on a small mold insert might take 2-4 hours. A complex multi-depth texture covering a large automotive interior panel mold can take 2-5 days of continuous processing. Throughput scales with laser power -- the 100 W option processes significantly faster than 20 W for large-area textures. The trade-off is between speed and fine detail resolution.

For many applications, yes. Laser texturing offers superior consistency, repeatability, traceability, and eliminates hazardous chemicals. However, chemical etching can still be faster and more cost-effective for very large surface areas with simple textures. Most mold shops adopting laser texturing start with high-value or complex texture work where consistency and digital control provide the most benefit, then expand laser texturing to more applications as they build experience and justify additional machine capacity.