The Opera marking system by Elettrolaser combines the versatility of laser technology with the precision of CNC milling in a single hybrid, integrated solution. This 2-in-1 solution makes it possible to optimise and automate production processes, reducing the risk of error associated with workpiece repositioning and consistently delivering quality-perfect results.
A hybrid machining centre to bring repositioning errors down to zero
The ability to carry out marking, engraving, cutting and milling without the need to move the workpiece ensures impeccable performance from the standpoint of quality and precision, reducing machining times and the risk of errors. The machine is in fact capable of performing extremely precise markings, engravings or cuts using the laser, and subsequently milling the workpiece to remove material or chamfer its edges, while always maintaining the same zero reference point.
The ability to complete the entire machining cycle with the workpiece held in a fixed position from start to finish brings the risk of realignment errors to zero across the different working phases, thus enabling impeccable results — especially in sectors requiring extremely high levels of precision and repeatability, such as goldsmithing and precision engineering.
All the advantages of an integrated 2-in-1 solution
The quality of the final result and the elimination of realignment errors are not the only advantages offered by Opera. The 2-in-1 approach means that once the workpiece is positioned on Opera, the entire production cycle can be executed in a continuous, uninterrupted sequence. As a result, by adopting Opera it is possible to:
From design to diamond-tip finishing: how Opera’s work cycle operates
Completing a machining cycle on Opera is straightforward and intuitive. The first step involves defining the project using the Elettrolaser software, which allows users to create, save and recall complete programmes, including for subsequent machining operations. The resulting project includes the full sequence of all operations the machine will perform with both the laser and the milling unit.
Once the project has been defined, it is possible to start the machining process, which is managed by the machine in a fully automatic manner throughout all stages. No manual operator intervention is required, except in cases where it is necessary to change the milling bit (for example, when switching from a cutting tip to a diamond-tip bit). Even in this case, however, once the tool has been replaced and the operator has confirmed readiness, the machine automatically repositions the milling head at the correct point to resume and complete the machining cycle.
The ability to change the milling bit when needed allows particularly complex operations to be completed, such as diamond-tip milling, which requires great precision and accurate geometry control, and is used to achieve high-quality aesthetic or functional surface finishes. Thanks to the ability to complete the entire process with the workpiece positioned only once, the diamond-tip milling process takes place in perfect continuity with the laser engravings and markings previously performed, with no risk of errors or discrepancies arising.