With the LaserTurn280, Aerotech announces a new motion platform for laser processing of cylindrical components. The system is aimed at machine builders and manufacturers of medical products who seek higher production volumes while maintaining consistent part quality. The market launch is planned for the second half of 2026. The company has already presented initial prototypes at several medical technology trade fairs, garnering significant interest from industry professionals.
The LaserTurn280 is based on Aerotech's proven PRO280LM linear table design. The system is available in three versions with rotary drive stages ASR1400, ASR1100, and ACS150. Depending on the configuration, tube diameters from 0.3 to 30 mm can be processed. Various clamping systems are available, including collets (TF20, W12) with so-called dead length and ER precision collets (ER16, ER25, ER40). The linear travel distance is 300 mm, with a maximum travel speed of 1,000 mm/s.
Dead-length collets minimize the axial movement of the tube and reduce the risk of stitching errors during feeding. This is particularly important when manufacturing 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 while enabling higher throughput. The LaserTurn280 was developed specifically for 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 at ±0.4 µm and ±15 µrad. The drive uses ironless linear motors with contactless optical encoders. The construction is designed for high stiffness and protects internal components from contamination.
This is particularly relevant for applications in wet cutting operations. The LaserTurn280 can be delivered in either a dry or wet cutting configuration; the latter features an integrated fluid handling system.
To simplify integration, the platform includes an integrated cable management system and a clear aperture for tube passage. Optional pneumatic grippers at the front and back enable automated workpiece handling. Mounting is done via eight M8 fastening points.
“We have consistently designed the platform to meet the requirements of medical technology manufacturing,” explains Brian Fink. “This means: minimal tube waste, reproducible part quality, and an architecture that allows machine builders to quickly move into series production.”
Designed for the Automation1 Controller
The tube laser system is designed for use with Aerotech's Automation1 motion controller. This supports functions such as Position Synchronized Output (PSO) for precise synchronization of laser pulse and axis movement. Additionally, Enhanced Tracking Control (ETC) is available, which reduces path errors during fast and complex contours. Both technologies are particularly relevant for stent manufacturing, where tight geometric tolerances and short cycle times are required.
Application areas in medical technology
Laser-cut cylindrical medical products are used in coronary and neurovascular stents, structural heart components, peripheral vascular implants, and instruments for minimally invasive procedures. The workpieces range from a few millimeters to lengths of over one meter. With its selection of rotary drive stages and collet options, the LaserTurn280 is designed for a wide range of these applications.
“The demands in medical technology manufacturing are increasing: smaller structures, tighter tolerances, and higher production volumes,” confirms Brian Fink. “The LaserTurn280 supports this development and enables integration without extensive adjustments of individual components.”
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