The SFX ALW-1200A is a game-changer for fabrication shops, packing 1200W of fiber laser power into a portable, 32kg air-cooled frame. By eliminating the bulky water chiller, this unit offers unprecedented mobility for welding aluminum, stainless steel, and brass up to 3mm thick. It is engineered to be 4ā10 times faster than TIG, producing clean, deep-penetration welds with minimal heat distortion. However, buyers must beware of misleading “Class 1” labels; the welding beam is a Class 4 hazard, requiring specialized OD7+ infrared safety gear and a dedicated light-tight workspace to prevent permanent injury.
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ā The Pros
- Extreme Portability: Weighs only 32kg, making it easy to move around the shop compared to 150kg water-cooled units.
- Maintenance Free: The 3D phase-change air cooling removes the need for distilled water, antifreeze, or chiller maintenance.
- High Efficiency: Drastically reduces project time and eliminates the need for post-weld grinding/polishing.
- User Friendly: The 7″ touchscreen includes 40 presets, allowing beginners to achieve professional results quickly.
ā The Cons
- Severe Safety Risks: As a Class 4 laser, even a tiny reflection can cause instant blindness or skin burns.
- High Entry Cost: At roughly $5,000, it is a significant investment compared to high-end TIG or MIG setups.
- PPE Requirements: Standard welding helmets are useless; you must purchase expensive, specific laser safety goggles (1080nm).
- Limited Thickness: While fast, it struggles with structural steel beyond 4mm compared to traditional high-amperage arc welders.