Aerotech has announced the LaserTurn280, a new motion platform for the laser machining of cylindrical components. The system is aimed at machine builders and manufacturers of medical devices seeking to produce higher volumes while maintaining consistent part quality. The market launch is scheduled for the second half of 2026. The company has already showcased initial prototypes at several medical technology trade fairs, where they attracted considerable interest.
The LaserTurn280 is based on Aerotech’s PRO280LM linear stage design. The system is available in three versions with the ASR1400, ASR1100 and ACS150 rotary stage drives. Depending on the configuration, tube diameters ranging from 0,3 to 30 mm can be machined. A range of clamping systems is available, including collets (TF20, W12) with ‘dead length’ and ER precision collets (ER16, ER25, ER40). The linear travel is 300 mm and the maximum travel speed is 1 000 mm/s.
Collet chucks with ‘dead length’ minimise axial movement of the tube, and reduce the risk of stitching errors during feed. This is particularly important when machining longer workpieces such as hypotubes. The clamping mechanism is pneumatically actuated and designed for operation with dry, oil-free nitrogen or compressed air.
“The LaserTurn280 is the result of direct feedback from the market,” explains Brian Fink, product manager at Aerotech. “Our customers need platforms that can be quickly integrated into their existing production lines while enabling higher throughput. The LaserTurn280 was developed precisely to meet these requirements.”
High accuracy in linear and rotary movements
According to the manufacturer, the achievable calibrated accuracy is ±1 µm (linear) and ±30 µrad (rotary), with bidirectional repeatability of ±0,4 µm and ±15 µrad respectively. The system is driven by ironless linear motors with non-contact optical encoders. The design is engineered for high rigidity and protects internal components from contamination, which is particularly relevant for wet cutting applications. The LaserTurn280 can be supplied in either a dry or wet cutting configuration, with the latter featuring an integrated fluid handling system.
To simplify integration, the platform features an integrated cable management system and a clear aperture for tube passage, and optional pneumatic grippers at the front and rear enable automated workpiece handling. Mounting is via eight M8 fixing points. “We have designed the platform specifically to meet the requirements of medical technology manufacturing,” explains Fink. “This means minimal tube scrap, reproducible part quality, and an architecture that allows machine builders to move quickly into series production.”
Designed for the Automation1 controller
The tube laser system is designed for use with Aerotech’s Automation1 motion controller. Among other features, this supports the Position Synchronised Output function for precise synchronisation of the laser pulse and axis movement. In addition, Enhanced Tracking Control is available, a function that reduces path errors during the machining of fast and complex contours. Both technologies are particularly relevant for stent manufacturing, where tight geometric tolerances and short cycle times are equally essential.
Applications in medical technology
Laser-cut, cylindrical medical devices are used in coronary and neurovascular stents, structural heart components, peripheral vascular implants and instruments for minimally invasive procedures, among other applications. Workpieces range from a few millimetres to lengths of over one metre. With its selection of rotary stage drives and collet options, the LaserTurn280 is designed for a wide range of these applications.
“The demands of medical device manufacturing are increasing, with smaller structures, tighter tolerances and higher production volumes,” confirms Fink. “The LaserTurn280 supports this development, and enables integration without the need for complex adjustments to individual components.”
For more information contact Uwe Fischer, Aerotech,
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