The short answer
Choose an open-bed fiber laser when direct table access fits your work and shop setup. Choose an enclosed model when you want the cutting area inside full guarding. An enclosed machine with shuttle tables can also let loading and cutting overlap, which helps reduce waiting between sheets.
Separate the enclosure from the table layout
An enclosure surrounds the cutting area. A shuttle table moves pallets between loading and cutting positions. They serve different needs, so check both features rather than assuming every enclosed laser has the same loading flow.
FORGE has an open bed. TITAN combines a full enclosure with shuttle tables. VULCAN 3015 is enclosed and lists table exchange times of 19-25 seconds.
Compare the listed 3015 machines
These models share a nominal 5x10 format, but their work areas, power ranges and layouts differ. Check the exact model before planning sheets or floor space.
| Feature | FORGE 3015 | TITAN 3015 | VULCAN 3015 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cutting layout | Open bed | Enclosed shuttle table | Enclosed exchange table |
| Work area | 3050 × 1530 mm | 3050 × 1530 mm | 3100 × 1550 mm |
| Laser power | 1.5-20 kW | 1.5-20 kW | Up to 12 kW |
| Max. running speed | 115 m/min | 120 m/min | 180 m/min |
| Acceleration | 0.8 G | 1.5 G | 2 G |
| Table exchange time | Not applicable | Not listed | 19-25 s |
Choose access for the way you handle parts
An open bed gives direct access to the work table. FORGE has bolted table sections that lift out for service and replacement. That access may suit shops with a varied mix of sheets and parts.
TITAN's enclosure has interlocked doors that stop the beam and sound an alarm when opened. Its zoned extraction draws air beneath the active cut. Review access and the full shop setup alongside the enclosure.
Use shuttle tables to reduce waiting
TITAN lets your crew load and unload one pallet while the other cuts. The benefit is greatest when the next sheet is ready before the active nest ends. Include part removal and sorting in that plan.
VULCAN's listed 19-25 second table exchange is the pallet swap, not the full time to unload parts and place a new sheet. Its 180 m/min running speed is also separate from material cutting speed. Use the cut chart to compare the cutting step.
Plan floor space and loading together
FORGE 3015 lists a footprint of 4600 × 2600 × 2100 mm. VULCAN 3015 lists 9100 × 2280 × 2210 mm. Leave room beyond the machine for stock, handling and service access.
FORGE lists a LIFT loader option, while TITAN lists LIFT and TOWER options. VULCAN lists an automatic load and unload line. Match each handling system to the sheet size, weight and thickness you plan to run.
