Laser Tube Cutting Machines

Implementing a laser tube cutting machine can change your business by expanding your capabilities, enabling steady growth, and allowing you to complete projects in diverse market segments.

Whether you're fabricating exhaust systems, building architectural frameworks, or cutting precision tubing for machinery, our fiber tube laser cutting machines give you cleaner cuts, faster throughput, and long-term ROI.

Expanding or moving to a new facility? We build custom systems that match your exact technical requirements.

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What is a Tube Laser Cutting Machine?

A tube laser cutting machine (also called a laser tube cutting machine or CNC fiber tube cutting machine) is a specialized system for cutting metal pipes, tubes, and profiles. Unlike flatbed lasers that cut sheet metal, tube lasers are engineered with rotary chucks and CNC controls that rotate and feed tubing under a high-powered fiber laser beam.

These machines can process different types of tubes and profiles, including those with varying wall thicknesses, making them highly versatile for a wide range of applications. They are ideal for cutting a variety of shapes and can handle workpieces of various sizes and complexities:

Round tubes

Round tubes

Square and rectangle tubes

Square and rectangle tubes

L-Shaped (Angle Iron)

L-Shaped (Angle Iron)

I-Beams and H-Beams

I-Beams and H-Beams

C-Channels and U-Profiles

C-Channels and U-Profiles


Key Benefits

Deliver faster cuts with exceptional detail and unparalleled precision.

Offer greater reliability with minimal downtime and preventative maintenance.

Are more energy efficient and free of costly consumables.

Produce smooth, clean, burr-free edges with no post-processing required.

Ability to cut complex contours and bevels

Maximum productivity with high efficiency and output, enabling reliable, high-volume production

How Does a Tube Laser Cutting Machine Work?

A tube laser cutter integrates fiber laser power, CNC software, and rotary chucks to deliver high-precision cuts. The CNC system uses data to control the machine, ensuring precise movements and accurate cutting throughout the automation process.

1 Loading & Clamping

Tubes are automatically loaded into the machine and clamped by CNC-controlled chucks. The support system is set to align the pipe at the concentric point of the chuck for accurate cutting.

2 Rotation & Positioning

The CNC system rotates the tube precisely, aligning each section under the fiber laser.

3 Laser Cutting

The high-powered fiber laser beam cuts through the material, guided by the CNC program.

4 3D Cutting Options

Advanced tube laser cutting systems include multi-axis heads for 3D tube laser cutting, enabling bevel cuts, miters, and weld preps.

5 Automatic Unloading

Finished parts are released or sorted automatically for continuous workflow.


Because the process is non-contact, the tube doesn't deform or suffer tool wear. The result is fast, repeatable cuts with minimal waste, and the system reduces the number of steps and components required for manufacturing.

How Fiber Laser Tube Cutting Machines Compare to Traditional Methods for Cutting Metal

Fiber laser tube cutting machines operate reliably even under demanding production conditions, ensuring consistent and dependable performance.

Feature Fiber Laser Cutting Plasma Cutting Water Jets
Cutting Speed Very High High Moderate to Low
Precision Excellent Moderate High
Material Compatibility Best for metals (steel, aluminum, brass) Metals only (esp. thick steel) All materials (metal, stone, glass, plastics)
Operating Cost Low Moderate High
Maintenance Low Moderate High
Edge Quality Clean, smooth edges Very rough Very clean (no heat)
Heat Affected Zone Minimal Significant None
Initial Cost High Moderate Very High
Consumables Low Moderate High (abrasive needed)
Ease of Automation High Moderate Moderate
Environmental Impact Low (minimal fumes or waste) Moderate (fume extraction needed) High (water and abrasive use)

Advantages of Using a CNC Laser Tube Cutting Machine

1 Unmatched Precision & Repeatability

Laser cutters provide unmatched precision and accuracy, enabling intricate cuts with clean, sharp edges that are difficult with traditional methods. The automated nature of laser cutting ensures consistent, repeatable results over time.

2 Tighter Tolerances

Laser tube cutters can achieve extremely tight tolerances, often as low as ±0.001 inches or more, ensuring high precision for critical applications. This level of accuracy is essential for industries requiring exact fit and finish, such as aerospace, automotive, and medical device manufacturing. Advanced CNC controls and rotary chuck systems enable consistent, repeatable cuts that meet stringent quality standards.

3 High-Speed Production

Fiber lasers cut up to 78 inches per second on thin tubes, dramatically reducing cycle times and increasing overall production efficiency. This high cutting speed allows manufacturers to complete jobs faster while maintaining precise, clean cuts. Additionally, the rapid processing capability helps reduce labor costs and improve throughput in high-volume tube processing operations.

4 Complex & 3D Cutting Capabilities

The programmable, multi-axis cutting head of a CNC laser machine can create intricate shapes and complex contours that are difficult to produce with conventional tools. Create slots, contours, miters, and 45° bevels directly with the laser — no grinding required.

These precise laser-cut features also enable a wide range of connections, such as bending connections and other jointing techniques, allowing for streamlined assembly without the need for welding or screws.

5 Material Versatility & Safety

Tube laser cutters can handle a wide range of materials; mild steel, stainless steel, aluminum, brass, copper and more. Laser cutting is a contactless process, preventing material contamination. This versatility allows for efficient processing of various metal types with minimal thermal distortion, ensuring high-quality cuts across different applications.

6 Automation & Labor Saving

Bundle loaders, part sorters, and CNC programming reduce manual handling and labor costs by automating material flow and production tasks. These features enable continuous operation with minimal human intervention, increasing throughput and overall efficiency. Automation also enhances safety by limiting operator exposure to moving parts and laser emissions.

7 Cleaner Cuts & Less Waste

The heat from laser cutting is highly focused, resulting in a much smaller heat-affected zone compared to other methods. This minimizes material warping, achieving higher quality results, more complex cuts, and less scrap. The narrow laser beam allows for more parts to be cut from a single tube, minimizing scrap and saving on material costs. The focused, non-contact thermal process of laser cutting also creates clean, burr-free edges and minimizes the need for post-processing.

8 Streamline Production Steps

Advanced tube laser systems can perform multiple operations including cutting, notching, drilling, and marking in a continuous sequence, which streamlines production. This eliminates the need for manual repositioning or secondary processes, reducing setup time and labor costs. The result is faster production, greater precision, and consistent part quality across every job.

9 Workplace Safety

Modern fiber laser tube cutting machines are typically enclosed, reducing the risk of injury to operators by containing the laser beam and preventing accidental exposure. This enclosure also helps control fumes and debris generated during cutting, improving workplace safety and cleanliness. Additionally, safety interlocks and sensors are integrated to halt operation if the enclosure is opened, ensuring compliance with safety standards.

10 Lower Maintenance Costs Than Traditional Methods

While initial costs for laser tube cutting machines are higher, they can lead to long-term cost savings due to faster production, reduced waste, and less labor. Fiber laser machines often require less maintenance compared to traditional machines. There is no tool wear during laser cutting since it uses a beam of light rather than physical blades or bits. Laser cutting significantly reduces production time due to the high speed of the laser beam.

Choosing the Right Tube Laser Cutting Machine

Every shop has different production goals, materials, and volume requirements. Selecting the right machine ensures maximum performance, precision, and long-term value. When evaluating your options, consider these six key factors:

Laser Power: Choose the right wattage for your materials—around 2 kW for thin tubes, 12 kW+ for mid-range work, and 30 kW+ for heavy-duty industrial cutting.
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Tube Size & Length Capacity: Select a machine that matches or exceeds your largest tube diameters and lengths to avoid production limits.

Chuck Configuration: Dual, 3-chuck, or 4-chuck systems provide increasing levels of support and accuracy for longer or heavier tubes.
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3D Cutting Capability: Bevel and angled cutting functions open up more design flexibility and reduce secondary processing.

Automation Level: Options like bundle loaders, automatic part sorters, and conveyors streamline workflow and boost throughput.

Support & Training: Dependable, U.S.-based service and operator training ensure uptime and long-term success with your machine.


By weighing these factors, you’ll select a fiber laser tube cutting machine that grows with your business and delivers consistent performance for years to come.

Selecting the Right Wattage for Your Tube Laser Cutter

When it comes to choosing a fiber laser cutting machine, laser power is one of the most critical factors influencing performance, cut quality, and overall efficiency. The wattage you select will determine how fast and how thick your metal laser cutter can cut through different materials, especially highly reflective metals like aluminum, brass and copper.


Lower wattage systems (1kW–6kW)

Lower wattages (1kW–6kW) are ideal for thin sheet metals such as carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. These machines offer excellent precision and edge quality at a more affordable price point, making them a great fit for small shops or operations focused on light fabrication.

Mid-range wattage systems (12kW–20kW)

Mid-range wattages (12kW–20kW) strike a strong balance between speed, versatility, and cost. A CNC fiber laser cutting machine in this range can efficiently process both thin and moderately thick materials, making it a smart investment for growing shops or fabricators seeking flexibility across a wider range of applications.

High wattage systems (30kW–60kW)

High wattage systems (30kW–60kW) are engineered for extreme productivity and cutting power. These fiber optic laser cutters can handle thick materials with impressive speed and edge quality, minimizing or eliminating secondary processing. Ideal for high-output manufacturing environments, they support fast cycle times and are optimized for 24/7 production.


Key Factors When Determining the Right Laser Power

Selecting the right wattage for your tube laser cutter isn’t just about power—it’s about matching the machine’s capabilities to your materials, production goals, and long-term business plans. The ideal power level balances cutting speed, edge quality, and efficiency for your specific applications

1. Material Type, Thickness, and Cutting Complexity

Different metals absorb laser energy differently. Stainless steel and carbon steel typically cut efficiently at moderate power levels, while aluminum, copper, and brass may require higher wattage for clean cuts.

Tip: Always consider both maximum and most common material thicknesses in your workflow when determining wattage.

2. Bevel Cutting — Account for Longer Cut Paths

When cutting bevels or chamfers, the effective cut length increases because you’re cutting along the hypotenuse of an angle rather than straight through.

Impact: A 45° bevel, for example, can increase the cutting distance by about 40%, which may require a higher wattage to maintain speed and edge quality.

Recommendation: Choose a machine with extra power margin if bevel cutting is a frequent requirement.

3. Square and Rectangular Tubes — Check Corner Thickness

Unlike round tubes, square and rectangular profiles have corners that are thicker than the flat sides.

Why it matters: The laser must penetrate this extra thickness cleanly to avoid incomplete cuts or excessive dross.

Recommendation: Base your wattage decision on the maximum corner thickness, not the nominal wall thickness.

4. Balancing Versatility and Power

Higher wattage allows faster cutting and greater thickness capacity—but excessive power can overcut or discolor thinner materials.

If you handle varied materials: Choose a mid-range wattage that offers flexibility while maintaining precision on thinner stock.

If you have distinct product lines: It may be more cost-effective to operate multiple machines optimized for different materials or thicknesses.

5. Power, Productivity, and ROI

Higher-wattage systems come at a premium, but they often yield better throughput and lower cost per part over time.

When higher power pays off: High-volume production, thick materials, and automated loading systems all benefit from faster cycle times.

ROI insight: Consider your total cost per part, not just initial machine cost—greater efficiency can quickly offset the investment in a higher-power laser.


Selecting the right wattage ensures your fiber laser tube cutting machine delivers optimal performance, precision, and profitability—today and as your production grows.

Choosing Between 2-Chuck, 3-Chuck, and 4-Chuck Laser Tube Cutting Machines

The number of chucks on a laser tube cutter directly affects how the tube is held, supported, and rotated during cutting. In general, longer, heavier, or larger-diameter tubes require more chucks to maintain precision, stability, and cutting efficiency.

2-Chuck Systems — For Standard Tubes and Everyday Cutting

Two-chuck machines are the most common and versatile setup. One chuck holds and rotates the front end of the tube while the other supports the rear.

  • Best for: Short to medium-length tubes (typically up to 6 m)

  • Typical tube weight: Light to moderate

  • Advantages: Simple structure, fast loading/unloading, ideal for general fabrication and small-batch production

3-Chuck Systems — For Long or Flexible Tubes

A third chuck adds a center support point, preventing vibration and sagging as the tube moves through the cutting area. This improves accuracy and cut quality on long or thin-walled materials.

  • Best for: Long or flexible tubes (often 6–9 m)

  • Advantages: Maintains concentricity and dimensional accuracy, reduces deflection during cutting, and supports higher cutting speeds on slender stock

4-Chuck Systems — For Extra-Long, Heavy, or Large-Diameter Tubes

When tubes are exceptionally long, thick-walled, or heavy, a four-chuck configuration provides maximum stability. Each section of the tube is securely gripped and aligned throughout the cutting process.

  • Best for: Oversized industrial tubes (9 m and beyond, or large diameters)

  • Advantages: Prevents tube deformation, ensures precise positioning, and allows consistent accuracy on heavy-duty materials


Have questions? Contact us and we can guide you in selecting the best laser tube cutting solution for your needs.

Explore EMP Fiber Tube Laser Cutting Machines

EMP tube laser cutting machines are rigorously tested, vetted, and selected for unmatched precision, efficiency, and economical operation. Our CNC-operated fiber tube lasers cut steel, stainless, aluminum tubing, and more — delivering clean, accurate results for every application.

Model Cypher High-Speed Fiber Laser Tube Cutter
Cypher
Cyclone High-Speed Heavy Duty Fiber Laser Tube Cutter
Cyclone
EMP Caliber 2-Chuck Heavy Duty Fiber Laser Tube Cutter
Caliber C2
Caliber C3・3-Chuck Heavy Duty Fiber Laser Tube Cutter
Caliber C3・C4

Type

High-Speed Fiber Laser Tube Cutter

High-Speed Heavy Duty Fiber Laser Tube Cutter

2-Chuck Heavy Duty Fiber Laser Tube Cutter

3-Chuck or 4-Chuck Heavy Duty Fiber Laser Tube Cutter

Laser Power (W)

1.5kW, 3kW

1.5kW, 3kW, 6kW, 12kW

6kW, 12kW, 20kW, 30kW

6kW, 12kW, 20kW, 30kW, 60kW

Tube Capacity

21' maximun tube length

24.5' maximun tube length

Configurable for 22' to 40' maximum tube lengths

Configurable for 20' to 50' maximum tube lengths

Min Round Tube Diameter

0.4” (10mm)

0.6” (15mm)

0.6” (15mm)

1.2” (30mm)

Max Round Tube Diameter

4.72” (120mm)

9” (230mm)

9.8” (250mm)

13.8” (350mm)

Options

Unloading System, Semi-Automatic and Fully Automatic Feeding Options

Unloading System, Semi-Automatic and Fully Automatic Feeding Options

Bevel Laser Head, Flow Drilling/Tapping, Semi-Automatic Loading/Unloading

Bevel Laser Head, Flow Drilling/Tapping, Semi-Automatic Loading/Unloading

Best For

Optimized for high-volume runs of small-diameter tubing. Perfect for first-time users or as a supplementary machine. Handles up to Ø120mm, maintaining tight tolerances even at top speeds of 200 rpm. Minimum tailing length of 1.18” (30mm).

Built for heavy-duty pipe and profile processing. Delivers industrial-grade reliability and productivity for all types of manufacturing industries. Handles round tubes up to Ø230mm and square tubes up to 230mm with exceptional speed and accuracy. Minimum tailing length of 2.75” (70mm).

Side-mounted fiber tube laser cutters engineered for heavy-duty performance, stability, and safety. Can handle a wide range of tubes and profiles including square, round, rectangular, angle iron, H steel, and more.

Side-mounted fiber tube laser cutters engineered for heavy-duty performance, stability, and safety. Both C3 and C4 models handle a wide range of tubes and profiles including square, round, rectangular, angle iron, H steel, and more.

Starting At

$123,950

$148,950

$298,950

$368,950

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Cypher

Cyclone

Caliber C2

Caliber C3・C4

Built for Production, Backed by Experience

It's easier to enter the world of laser tube cutting with EMP by your side—even for those new to the technology, we provide expert installation, calibration, and training to ensure your machine is fully operational from day one.

Sourcing & Product Curation

Industrial-Grade Reliability

Custom-Built Solutions

Professional Installation

U.S.-Based Support and Training

Flexible Support Contracts

Trusted by Manufacturers in Every Industry

Automotive & Aerospace

The image depicts a robust roll cage designed for automobiles, showcasing its intricate construction and high-quality materials. This essential safety component is engineered to enhance the vehicle's performance and reliability, ensuring maximum protection during racing or off-road applications.

Cutting exhaust systems, roll cages, frames, and lightweight brackets from steel and aluminum tubing. Laser tube cutting machines deliver repeatable accuracy for safety-critical parts, meeting strict industry tolerances.

Construction & Structural Steel

Image depicts an eExposed steel roof truss framework under a partly cloudy sky, showcasing modern construction techniques.

Processing stair rails, beams, trusses, and architectural profiles with speed and consistency. CNC tube lasers handle heavy steel sections and reduce on-site finishing.

Furniture & Fixtures

Empty wooden shelves on a metal framework, suitable for storage or display in a warehouse or retail environment.

Creating tubular frames, shelving, and retail displays with decorative cuts and clean joints. Laser tube cutting machines deliver smooth finishes that require no secondary polishing.

Agriculture & Equipment

Modern center-pivot irrigation system watering green crops against bright sunlit landscape

Fabricating machine frames, arms, and irrigation systems from thick-walled tubing. Tube lasers ensure rugged components fit together cleanly and last longer in the field.

Fitness Equipment

modern metal exercise indoor gym equipment.

Producing frames and supports for treadmills, exercise bikes, weight machines, outdoor gyms, and other playground equipment. Laser-cut tubing allows for ergonomic designs with consistent strength and finish.

Renewable Energy

A closeup of solar panel mounts arranged in a staggered configuration showcasing their angled positioning to optimize sunlight exposure.

In the renewable energy sector, laser tube cutters are used to manufacture precise, durable components for solar panel mounts, wind turbine frames, and support structures. Their ability to cut complex profiles and tight tolerances ensures secure assembly, efficient material use, and long-lasting performance in demanding outdoor environments.

HVAC Systems

overhead pipes and hvac

Laser tube cutters are used in the HVAC industry to produce precise duct work components, frames, brackets, and piping assemblies of different diameters. Their high accuracy and clean edge quality allow for tight-fitting joints and efficient airflow, improving system performance while reducing fabrication time and material waste.

General Manufacturing

Modern Staircase With Floating Blackened Steel Steps and Cable Railings

Cutting handrails, pipe fittings, and custom tubular profiles across a variety of metals. Laser tube cutting machines give fabricators flexibility to switch quickly between jobs.

How We Work

From expert planning, delivery and installation to service, training and calibration, EMP Laser provides fast, reliable and professional support.

FAQ

General

A tube laser cutting machine is a CNC-operated system that uses a fiber laser to cut round, square, and structural metal tubing. Unlike saws or plasma cutters, tube lasers deliver clean, burr-free cuts and handle complex shapes with precision.

EMP's tube laser machines cut a wide range of metals, including mild steel, stainless steel, aluminum, brass, and copper. With fiber laser technology, even reflective metals can be processed efficiently.

Depending on the model, EMP tube lasers can handle tubing up to 50 ft in length and 12 inches or more in diameter. Other machines are available for shorter, lighter tubes. See the comparison chart above for details.

A fiber laser can cut carbon and stainless steels, aluminum alloys, brass, copper, titanium, nickel alloys, and many precious metals. It is not suitable for woods, plastics, or glass.

To laser cut a tube, the tube is first loaded into a specialized tube laser cutting machine equipped with a rotary chuck system that rotates and positions the material. A focused fiber laser beam precisely cuts through the metal as the tube moves along the cutting path, guided by CNC controls. The process can also include automatic alignment, notching, or hole cutting, ensuring high accuracy and minimal material waste.

3D tube cutting refers to the ability to cut bevels, angles, miters, and weld-prep edges into tubing. This is achieved with a tilting laser head that moves on multiple axes, expanding design and fabrication possibilities.

EMP machines deliver repeatable accuracy within ±0.002” (0.05mm) to ±0.001″ (0.03mm). This level of precision makes them ideal for safety-critical parts in industries like automotive, aerospace, and structural steel.

Yes, certain EMP models, like the Crossover, are designed as hybrid systems, capable of cutting both sheet metal and tubes. This gives fabricators flexibility in one machine investment.

Costs

Entry-level CNC tube laser systems (800W - 1.5 kW) start around $30,000-$90,000. Professional Systems (3-6 kW) start at $100,000-$250,000. Larger, industrial fully automated systems with higher power and advanced features can range from $200,000-$750,000+.

Considerations

Class 1 enclosure or certified laser goggles, interlocked doors, effective fume extraction, and operator training in line with OSHA and ANSI Z136 standards.

Yes, because the kerf is narrower, edges are cleaner, and no slag forms. Plasma is cheaper to buy but requires significant post processing to arrive at a finished part.

Fiber lasers cut faster, handle reflective metals, require less maintenance, and have no consumables. Compared to plasma or saw cutting, they produce smoother edges and eliminate many secondary operations

Some disadvantages of fiber lasers are the higher purchase price, limitation to metals only, mandatory fume extraction, and extra care when cutting reflective metals.

Maintenance

Keep lenses, protective windows, and nozzles clean. Replace filters, monitor beam alignment, service the chiller, and calibrate axes on a weekly to quarterly schedule.

The narrow kerf produces minimal scrap, and a properly designed extraction or filtration system keeps airborne particles under control.

Yes. Metal fumes and smoke must be vented or filtered to meet air-quality regulations.

Software & Automation

Yes. EMP systems are fully compatible with industry-standard CAD/CAM software, making it easy to program, simulate, and optimize tube cutting jobs. EMP laser tube cutting machines come with Bochu TubePro and/or TubesT CAM software.

Yes. Loader-unloaders, automatic nozzle changers, and robotic part sorting can be added and integrated with most fiber laser cutting systems.

EMP Support & Services

EMP offers U.S.-based installation, operator training, and ongoing service support to keep your production running smoothly on your fiber laser tube cutter.

Yes, please see our Financing page for details.

Ready to explore metal fabrication options?

Whether you're adding tube cutting to your shop for the first time or scaling up to high-volume production, EMP Laser delivers the CNC fiber laser tube cutting machines you need for precision, performance, and long-term reliability.

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