Rollomatic LaserSmart 510

$500,000 - $800,000 (new) Updated 2025-03-15

Key Specifications

machining method

Laser ablation (femtosecond/picosecond pulsed)

axes

5 CNC axes

processable materials

PCD, CVD diamond, CBN, ceramics, carbide

laser spot size

Single-digit micron range

applications

Cutting tool geometries: rake faces, clearance angles, chip breakers, edge prep

software

Rollomatic VirtualGrind (laser adapted)

Overview

The Rollomatic LaserSmart 510 is a 5-axis laser machining system designed for processing ultra-hard materials -- specifically PCD (polycrystalline diamond), CVD diamond, CBN, and advanced ceramics used in cutting tool manufacturing. While classified alongside grinding machines, the LaserSmart uses a femtosecond or picosecond pulsed laser to ablate material with extreme precision, no cutting forces, and no heat-affected zone.

The LaserSmart 510 features 5 CNC axes for full 3D laser processing of cutting tool geometries including rake faces, clearance angles, chip breakers, and edge preparations on PCD and diamond inserts. The laser spot size is in the single-digit micron range, enabling feature resolution impossible with conventional grinding.

The machine uses Rollomatic's proprietary VirtualGrind software adapted for laser processing, providing intuitive programming of complex tool geometries. The closed-loop laser power control and real-time process monitoring maintain consistent quality across production batches.

The enclosed work area includes fume extraction and filtration systems essential for laser ablation of diamond and carbide materials. Automatic tool loading options enable lights-out production of PCD cutting tools.

New LaserSmart 510 systems price $500,000-$800,000 depending on laser source and configuration. Competes with Ewag Laser Line Ultra and Walter Laser Technology in the laser tool machining segment. Rollomatic's advantage is their deep expertise in cutting tool manufacturing equipment.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
Machining Method	Laser ablation (femtosecond/picosecond pulsed)
Axes	5 CNC axes
Processable Materials	PCD, CVD diamond, CBN, ceramics, carbide
Laser Spot Size	Single-digit micron range
Applications	Cutting tool geometries: rake faces, clearance angles, chip breakers, edge prep
Software	Rollomatic VirtualGrind (laser adapted)
Process Monitoring	Closed-loop laser power control, real-time monitoring
Work Area	Enclosed with fume extraction and filtration
Automation	Automatic tool loading for lights-out production
Machine Type	Laser tool machining center

Specifications sourced from rollomatic.ch — verified 2026-03-28

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

Processes ultra-hard PCD, CVD diamond, and CBN that are extremely difficult or impossible to grind conventionally
Zero cutting forces enable machining of thin, fragile cutting tool geometries without workpiece distortion
No heat-affected zone preserves the properties of diamond and CBN cutting materials
Single-digit micron laser spot size enables feature resolution beyond grinding capability
5-axis processing covers full 3D tool geometries in one setup
VirtualGrind software provides intuitive programming for complex cutting tool shapes

Limitations

$500,000-$800,000 is specialized capital for a niche application -- PCD/diamond tool production
Material removal rate is significantly slower than grinding for bulk material removal
Laser source requires periodic maintenance and eventual replacement at significant cost
Fume extraction and filtration systems require ongoing maintenance for safe operation
Very specialized application -- not a general-purpose grinding machine

Best For

Cutting tool manufacturers producing PCD, CVD diamond, and CBN inserts and tools Aerospace and automotive tooling shops needing custom PCD cutting tool geometries Manufacturers of diamond-tipped tools for composites machining (CFRP, honeycomb) Tool reconditioning shops sharpening and modifying expensive PCD tools Shops producing micro-tools with features too small for conventional grinding Companies transitioning from EDM to laser processing of PCD and diamond tools

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What does it cost?

$500,000-$800,000 new depending on laser source (femtosecond vs picosecond) and automation options. This is a specialized capital investment for PCD/diamond tool production.

02 Why laser instead of grinding for PCD?

PCD and diamond are the hardest commercial materials. Conventional grinding with diamond wheels is slow, causes excessive wheel wear, and can damage the PCD structure. Laser ablation removes material without contact or heat, preserving PCD properties and enabling complex geometries.

03 What is the difference between femtosecond and picosecond lasers?

Femtosecond lasers have shorter pulse duration (10^-15 seconds vs 10^-12) resulting in virtually zero heat-affected zone and cleaner ablation. Picosecond lasers are more affordable and offer faster material removal. Femtosecond is preferred for highest quality; picosecond for better throughput.

04 Can it replace EDM for PCD processing?

Yes. Laser processing is replacing wire and sinker EDM for PCD tool manufacturing because it is faster, produces better edge quality, and does not create the micro-cracks that EDM can cause in PCD structures.

05 What about carbide tools?

The LaserSmart 510 can process carbide, but grinding is typically more cost-effective for bulk carbide tool production. The laser is most valuable for PCD, diamond, CBN, and hybrid tools with multiple material layers.