ERLASER® Automation is the turnkey process automation system by ERLAS Erlanger Lasertechnik that coordinates every element of an industrial laser manufacturing cell — part feeding, pre-assembly, laser processing, in-process quality inspection, and orderly discharge of finished workpieces. Rather than supplying a laser source and leaving integration to the customer, ERLAS delivers a fully engineered production station where the automation, motion, laser, and quality systems operate as a single coordinated unit under one control architecture.

How does inline quality control work in ERLASER cells?

Multiple sensor modalities run simultaneously during laser processing. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) on welding cells detects binding faults and shoot-through in thin sheet and foil welds. Ratio pyrometers on hardening cells measure temperature at the laser spot with kilohertz-speed feedback to laser power control. All process variables — temperature, laser power, feed rate, and axis positions — are logged per part for traceability. Defective components are automatically ejected from the part stream. The technology database stores proven parameter sets, making process transfer between identical cells deterministic.

What does the automation layer handle?

Low-jerk multi-axis part transport moves components between stations at high speed without inducing vibration that would compromise laser positioning. Monitored-function clamping devices confirm part presence and orientation before the laser fires. Linear and rotary table systems reduce machine loading time — non-productive time between laser operations is the primary optimisation target. At cell exit, processed components are sorted and stored in order, with OK/NOK routing managed automatically. The entire cell qualifies for railway component manufacturing under EN 15085-2 CL1 and welded structures under EN ISO 3834-2.