A tube laser cutting machine is worth buying when pipe and profile fabrication needs repeatable holes, slots, miters, notches, end cuts, or assembly features that are slow or inconsistent on band saws, drill presses, and manual layout. The right machine is sized by 6 variables: tube diameter (Ø20–350 mm in HORISTAR’s range), wall thickness (1–25 mm depending on material), loading length (6 m / 8 m / 12 m), chuck count (2 / 3 / 4 — the most under-discussed decision), laser power (1–20 kW), and downstream welding/assembly tolerance.
This guide gives the actual numbers HORISTAR uses to size the HM6P (6 m), HM8P (8 m) and HM12P (12 m) tube lasers for overseas buyers — including the chuck-count decision matrix, zero-tailing technology economics (USD 500–3,000/month material savings), TubePro/TubesT software workflow, vs band-saw ROI math, and the sample-test package required before shipment. HORISTAR buyers can start from the tube laser cutting machine page, then compare against the sheet and tube laser cutting machine (HM-SP series) if both flat sheet and pipe are in scope.
Scope: this guide specifies a dedicated tube laser by profile, diameter, wall thickness, stock length, chuck count and nesting workflow. It is not a general sheet-laser power chart or a product-page replacement.
By: Doris Li, HORISTAR CNC Application Team. Doris has 8+ years working with overseas buyers on CNC, laser and welding machine selection, sample testing, quotation inputs and pre-shipment checks for HORISTAR machinery projects.
Updated: 2026-08-06 · Reviewed by: HORISTAR Laser Application Team · Estimated read time: 14 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Six variables, not one. Size a tube laser by diameter, wall thickness, length, chuck count, laser power, and tolerance — not by “max diameter” alone.
- Chuck count is the most important decision. 2-chuck = entry/budget with 100–200 mm tailing waste per tube; 3-chuck = balanced production; 4-chuck = zero-tailing + ultra-long tubes + premium accuracy (USD 20,000–50,000 step between configurations).
- Length: HM6P (6 m), HM8P (8 m), HM12P (12 m) — choose by your stock length plus 500 mm clearance.
- Diameter: 20–220 mm standard, 20–350 mm extended — most fabrication shops fit inside 220 mm.
- Zero-tailing saves real money. At 1,000 tubes/month with 150 mm tailing waste each = 150 m wasted/month = USD 750–2,250/month in steel cost (typical structural steel USD 5–15/m).
- Software matters. TubePro (Bochu) is the global standard, with 3D simulation, TubesT nesting, and full SolidWorks / Pro-E / UG import. Specify TubePro in the RFQ.
- Tube laser pays back faster than sheet laser for fabricators because it replaces 3 manual steps at once: sawing + drilling + layout marking.
- Reference standards: OSHA 1910.212 guarding, FDA 21 CFR 1040.10 laser, ISO 12100, ISO 9013 (thermal cut quality), ISO 2768 (general tolerances), ISO 13849-1, ISO 11553-1, EN 60204-1.23456789
Choose by Tube Shape First
Tube shape is the first buying decision because round pipe, square tube, rectangular tube, and open profiles clamp and rotate differently. A machine that handles round pipe well is not automatically the right fit for every channel, angle, or H-beam.
| Material form | HORISTAR HM-P capability | Typical features | RFQ priority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Round pipe | ✅ All models, Ø20–350 mm | Holes, fish-mouth cuts, miters, slots | Chuck centering accuracy |
| Square tube | ✅ All models, side 20–220 mm | Slots, mounting holes, end cuts, notches | Side-location repeatability |
| Rectangular tube | ✅ All models | Long slots, asymmetric features, brackets | 6/8/12 m support stability |
| Oval / flat-oval pipe | ✅ All models | Decorative trim, automotive trim | Profile recognition software |
| Triangle / polygon tubes | ✅ HM-P with FSCUT | Custom decorative work, art | Tube recognition function |
| Angle iron (L-profile) | ✅ All models | Open-profile cutting | Sample proof required |
| Channel steel (U-profile) | ✅ All models | Construction features | Sample proof required |
| H-beam / I-beam | ✅ All models | Structural connections, bolting holes | Heavy chuck capacity |
HORISTAR HM-P series supports all of these profiles with the FSCUT control system and TubePro software — the same combination used by global tube fabrication market leaders.
The Six Variables of Tube Laser Selection
1. Tube Diameter Range
| Routine diameter | Recommended config | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 20–100 mm only | Standard 220 mm chuck | Lowest cost; serves furniture, gym equipment, small frames |
| 20–160 mm | Standard 220 mm chuck | Most common range; structural, automotive, agriculture |
| 100–220 mm | 220 mm chuck (standard) | Mainstream fabrication shop sweet spot |
| 200–280 mm | 350 mm chuck (extended) | Heavy structural, large frames |
| 250–350 mm | 350 mm chuck (extended) | Specialized large-diameter applications |
| Over 350 mm | Custom configuration | Project sizing required |
2. Wall Thickness
Wall thickness drives the laser power selection more than diameter.
| Routine wall thickness | Recommended laser power | Material context |
|---|---|---|
| 1–3 mm | 1.5–3 kW | Furniture, gym, automotive trim |
| 3–6 mm | 3–6 kW | General structural, agriculture |
| 6–10 mm | 6–12 kW | Heavy structural, construction |
| 10–16 mm | 12–20 kW | Industrial scaffolding, large frames |
| 16–25 mm | 20 kW+ | Project sizing required; sample cuts mandatory |
The HM-P series accepts laser sources from 1 kW to 20 kW (Max / Raycus / IPG), so the same machine platform scales across most production needs.
3. Loading Length (HM6P / HM8P / HM12P)
| HORISTAR model | Cutting length | Best for stock length |
|---|---|---|
| HM6P | 0–6,000 mm | 6 m stock (standard structural) |
| HM8P | 0–8,000 mm | 8 m stock (export/structural) |
| HM12P | 0–12,000 mm | 12 m stock (heavy industrial, large frames) |
Buyer rule: add at least 500 mm clearance to your stock length. A factory using 6 m mill-finish pipe needs HM6P at minimum; if any orders extend to 7 m, jump to HM8P rather than splicing.
4. Chuck Count — The Single Most Underrated Decision
This decision is where tube laser quotes differ by USD 20,000–50,000 between configurations. Most buyers don’t understand the difference until they’re already committed.
| Chuck count | Tail waste per tube | Long-tube support | Production fit | Indicative cost premium |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 chucks | 100–200 mm waste | Adequate for ≤ 6 m | Entry-level, light work | Baseline |
| 3 chucks | 50–100 mm waste | Better for 6–8 m | Mid-volume production | +USD 15,000–25,000 |
| 4 chucks | 0 mm (zero tailing) | Best for 8–12 m | Heavy production, premium accuracy | +USD 30,000–50,000 vs baseline |
Why 4 chucks matter: – Zero tailing. Two chucks always need to hold both ends, leaving 100–200 mm of waste at one end. With 4 chucks (typically: 1 main + 1 front + 1 mid-rear + 1 final-hand-off), the cut continues to the absolute end of the tube. – No mid-tube sag on 8–12 m material — important for hole position accuracy. – Higher rotation speed without losing concentricity.
Practical example: a fabricator cuts 1,000 pieces/month of structural steel tube from 6 m stock at USD 8/m. With 2 chucks (150 mm waste): 1,000 × 0.15 m × USD 8 = USD 1,200/month of scrap material. With 4 chucks (zero tailing): USD 0. Annual saving USD 14,400 — close to half the 4-chuck premium recovered in year 1, before counting accuracy and capacity benefits.
5. Laser Power
The laser power scales independently of length. A 6 m HM6P can carry a 12 kW source; a 12 m HM12P can be configured with 3 kW for light tube. Match power to wall thickness × material, not to tube diameter.
6. Accuracy Specifications
| Parameter | HORISTAR HM-P standard |
|---|---|
| X, Y axis positioning accuracy | ±0.05 / 1,000 mm |
| X, Y axis repeat positioning accuracy | ±0.03 / 1,000 mm |
| Tube rotation accuracy | ±0.05° per revolution |
| Cut quality grade | ISO 9013 Range 2–3 (depending on thickness) |
These specs put the HM-P series in the same band as the major global brands (Bystronic ByTube, Mazak STX, BLM LT series), at a significantly lower price point.
Source: HORISTAR HM-P series specifications, 2026.1
Tube Laser vs Band Saw + Drill Press
This is the comparison most fabricators actually need. The tube laser does not just replace the band saw — it replaces three stations and three operators.
| Workflow step | Traditional process | Tube laser process |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting to length | Band saw, 1 operator | Done in same pass on laser |
| Layout / marking holes | Manual measure + scribe | Done by CAD program |
| Drilling / punching holes | Drill press or mag-drill, 1 operator | Done in same pass on laser |
| Mitering / coping (fish-mouth) | Cope cutter or grinding, 1 operator | Done in same pass on laser |
| Deburring sharp edges | Grinder + file, 1 operator | Minimal; laser edge is cleaner |
| Total operators | 2–4 people | 1 operator |
| Total time per part (4 features) | 8–15 minutes | 1–3 minutes |
| Position accuracy | ±1–3 mm (manual layout) | ±0.1 mm (CNC) |
| Fit-up at welding | Variable; often needs grinding | Drop-in fit |
For any fabricator producing > 200 tubes/month with > 3 features per tube, the tube laser typically pays back in 12–24 months even before counting the labor reduction.
Software: TubePro and TubesT
The software is where tube laser ROI is realized. The HORISTAR HM-P series ships with TubePro (made by Bochu, the global standard for tube laser control software):
| Software feature | What it does | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Direct CAD import | Reads STEP, IGES, SolidWorks (.sldprt), Pro-E, UG/NX | Eliminates manual drawing in CAM |
| TubesT nesting | Optimizes part placement across stock length | Recovers 8–15% material vs manual layout |
| 3D simulation | Visualizes the full cut path before running | Catches collisions before scrapping a tube |
| Tube recognition | Camera identifies tube cross-section and orientation | Eliminates manual setup; reduces operator skill |
| Auto Z-axis tracking | Maintains focus distance on irregular tube surfaces | Cleaner cuts on hand-finished or used tube |
| Zero-tailing module | Coordinates 4-chuck sequence | Captures the material saving discussed above |
| Production reporting | Per-shift production data, OEE tracking | Continuous improvement and quoting accuracy |
Buyer rule: confirm in writing that TubePro is included in the quotation — not a “compatible” or “similar” alternative. Some lower-cost competitors ship with limited-feature alternative software that cannot import SolidWorks files directly.
Cost Recovery Calculation: Tube Laser vs Band Saw + Drill
Inputs (typical structural steel fabricator)
- Production: 800 tubes/month, ~4 features per tube (cuts + holes + miters)
- Material: 6 m stock, 60 × 60 × 3 mm square tube
- Tube cost: USD 9/m structural steel
- Tailing waste under 2-chuck setup: 150 mm/tube
- Labor: USD 12/hour loaded (operator)
- Band saw operator: 1 person × 8 hours
- Drill press operator: 1 person × 6 hours/day on tube work
- Manual layout/scribe: 0.5 person × 6 hours/day
- Workdays: 22/month
Current monthly cost (band saw + drill press + layout)
| Cost item | Monthly value |
|---|---|
| Band saw operator (8 h/day × 22 × USD 12) | USD 2,112 |
| Drill press operator (6 h/day × 22 × USD 12) | USD 1,584 |
| Layout (3 h/day × 22 × USD 12) | USD 792 |
| Saw blade & drill bit consumables | USD 280 |
| Fit-up rework at welding (10% of parts × 15 min × USD 12) | USD 240 |
| Total monthly cost | USD 5,008 |
With HM6P tube laser (4-chuck zero-tailing)
| Cost item | Monthly value |
|---|---|
| Laser operator (1 person × 4 h/day × 22 × USD 12) | USD 1,056 |
| Material saved (800 tubes × 0.15 m × USD 9) | −USD 1,080 (saving) |
| Laser electricity (88 h × 15 kW × USD 0.14) | USD 185 |
| Nitrogen for cutting | USD 320 |
| Lens / nozzle consumables | USD 150 |
| Total monthly cost (after material credit) | USD 631 |
| Monthly saving vs traditional | USD 4,377 |
Annual saving: USD 4,377 × 12 = USD 52,524/year
Payback period
| Configuration | Indicative price (FOB) | Payback |
|---|---|---|
| HM6P with 2-chuck + 3 kW Raycus | USD 80,000–110,000 | ~22 months |
| HM6P with 3-chuck + 6 kW Raycus | USD 110,000–140,000 | ~26 months |
| HM6P with 4-chuck + 6 kW IPG (zero tailing) | USD 140,000–180,000 | ~31 months |
| HM12P with 4-chuck + 12 kW IPG | USD 200,000–280,000 | ~50+ months (justify with volume) |
Recommendation
For a production fabricator at 800 tubes/month, the HM6P with 3-chuck + 6 kW is usually the sweet-spot purchase. The 4-chuck zero-tailing upgrade pays back its own premium through material savings alone in 18–24 months — and it adds significant accuracy and capacity headroom. The HM12P + 12 kW makes sense only above 2,000 tubes/month or when 8–12 m tube length is the actual stock format.
Source: HORISTAR tube fabrication ROI model, 2026. Real numbers vary with material cost, labor rates and production mix.
Industry-Specific Recommendations
Different industries need different HM-P configurations. Use this as a starting point for your RFQ.
| Industry | Typical tube specs | Recommended configuration |
|---|---|---|
| Furniture / gym equipment | Ø20–80 mm, 1–3 mm wall, 1,000+ pcs/month | HM6P, 2–3 chuck, 1.5–3 kW — high speed, small features |
| Automotive chassis / exhaust | Ø20–120 mm, 1–4 mm wall | HM6P, 3 chuck, 3–6 kW — accuracy critical |
| Agricultural machinery | Ø40–160 mm, 2–6 mm wall | HM8P, 3–4 chuck, 6 kW — long tubes, varied features |
| Construction / scaffolding | Ø48–220 mm, 3–6 mm wall | HM8P or HM12P, 3–4 chuck, 6–12 kW — volume + length |
| Structural steel (buildings) | Ø100–350 mm, 6–16 mm wall | HM12P, 4 chuck, 12–20 kW + 350 mm chuck |
| Aerospace tubing | Ø10–150 mm, precision walls | HM6P, 3–4 chuck, 3–6 kW + IPG source — accuracy |
| Bicycle frame / sports | Ø20–60 mm, thin walls | HM6P, 2–3 chuck, 1.5–3 kW — fine features |
| Decorative metalwork / art | Mixed shapes, custom profiles | HM6P, 3 chuck, 3 kW + TubePro premium software |
| HVAC / ducting | Ø100–200 mm, 1–3 mm wall | HM8P, 2–3 chuck, 3 kW — straight runs, simple features |
Source: HORISTAR application practice across overseas buyers in 2024–2026.
Tube Laser vs Sheet-and-Tube Laser (HM-SP Series)
Some buyers can use a combination machine instead of a dedicated tube laser. The HORISTAR HM-SP series (HM3015SP / HM6015SP / HM6020SP / HM8020SP / HM2580SP / HM20120SP) handles both flat sheet and tube — with rotary attachment for tube work.
| Comparison | Dedicated Tube Laser (HM-P) | Sheet + Tube (HM-SP) |
|---|---|---|
| Sheet cutting | ❌ Tube only | ✅ Full sheet + tube |
| Tube speed | ✅ Optimized; faster | Slower (changeover required) |
| Tube length | Up to 12 m | Up to 6 m (rotary length) |
| Tube diameter | Up to 350 mm | Up to 350 mm |
| Chuck count | 2 / 3 / 4 chuck options | Typically 1–2 chuck |
| Zero tailing | ✅ Available with 4 chucks | ❌ Not standard |
| Changeover time sheet↔tube | N/A (tube only) | 5–15 minutes |
| Floor space | Smaller footprint | Larger (combined) |
| Best for | Tube > 60% of work | Sheet > 60%, tube secondary |
| Indicative price | USD 80,000–280,000 | USD 90,000–250,000 |
Buyer rule: if pipe work is < 40% of laser demand, the HM-SP series saves capital and floor space. If pipe work is > 60% of demand, the dedicated HM-P is faster, more accurate (no rotary changeover error), and supports zero tailing.
Lifecycle and Maintenance Matrix
| Interval | HM-P tube laser | Buyer action |
|---|---|---|
| Chuck jaw inspection | Every 8 h | Prevent clamping slip; replace worn jaws |
| Support roller inspection | Every 8 h | Reduce tube sag and rotation error |
| Protective lens inspection | Every 8 h | Replace contaminated windows; cheap consumable |
| Nozzle condition | Every 8 h | Burr/dross signs of wear |
| Chiller water check | Every 40 h | Stable beam quality |
| Gas route leak test | Every 1 month | Stabilize edge quality |
| Lubrication (rails, racks) | Every 1 month | Auto-lubrication preferred |
| Software backup | Every 1 month | Programs and TubePro library |
| Electrical cabinet | Every 6 months | Match EN 60204-1 / IEC 60204-1 |
| Beam quality recheck | Every 12 months | Cut sample coupons from routine materials |
| Chuck calibration | Every 12 months | Maintain ±0.03 mm/m repeatability |
| Annual scheduled downtime | 25–40 h/year | Plan around production |
| Lifecycle planning | 8–12 years | IPG sources rated 100,000 h |
Annual consumables budget (production use):
- HM6P: USD 3,000–7,000/year (lenses, nozzles, nitrogen filters, lube)
- HM12P: USD 5,000–10,000/year
Source: HORISTAR HM-P series application maintenance practice, 2026.
Sample Test Before Shipment
A tube laser sample test must use the buyer’s hardest real pipe — not a clean round tube with one straight cut. Many overseas buyers have rejected machines on arrival because the sample test was too easy.
| Test item | Minimum evidence | Pass direction |
|---|---|---|
| Tube shapes | 3 shapes | Round, square, rectangular — plus any profile in scope |
| Wall thicknesses | 3 | Thin, routine, upper-range from buyer’s part list |
| Feature types | 4 features | Round hole, slot, miter cut, end cope/fish-mouth |
| Tube length | Routine stock length | Full 6/8/12 m to test support system |
| Position accuracy | Measured to ±0.1 mm | Repeated on 3 tubes |
| Hole-to-end position | Measured | Within ±0.3 mm over 6 m |
| Cut edge quality | ISO 9013 grade | Range 2–3 per supplier spec |
| Squareness | End-cut perpendicularity | ≤ 1° |
| Tailing waste | Measured | 0 mm with 4 chucks; ≤ 200 mm with 2 chucks |
| Runtime | 2 hours continuous | No alarms, stable chiller, stable chuck pressure |
| Software demo | TubePro import + nest + simulate + cut | Full workflow on operator’s laptop |
| Fixture / chuck demo | All chuck count switching | Confirm quoted chuck count works |
| Finished parts | 3 measured parts | Confirm fit-up at downstream welding |
| Safety functions | Guards, E-stop, interlocks | Matches ISO 12100 / OSHA 1910.212 |
During a 2026 HORISTAR tube laser inspection for a Polish furniture-fabrication buyer, the team validated an HM6P with 3-chuck and 3 kW Raycus source using 3 tube shapes (Ø25 round, 40×40 square, 30×60 rectangle), 3 wall thicknesses (1.5/2/3 mm), 4 feature types, full 6 m stock, and TubePro import directly from the buyer’s SolidWorks files. Position accuracy measured ±0.08 mm at hole locations; cut squareness 0.6°. Buyer approved shipment within 48 hours.
Source: HORISTAR tube laser inspection practice, 2026.
RFQ Input List
To request a quote, send HORISTAR:
- Tube shapes: round, square, rectangular, oval, H-beam, channel, angle, custom — list all in production
- Material grades: carbon steel (Q235, A36), stainless (304/316), aluminum (6061), other alloys
- Diameter range: minimum and maximum routine
- Wall thickness range: minimum and maximum routine
- Loading length: 6 m / 8 m / 12 m
- Finished part length: shortest and longest
- Feature types: holes (size range), slots, miters, end copes, threading
- Monthly volume: tubes/month, features/tube
- Position tolerance: hole-to-end, hole-to-hole
- Downstream process: welding (manual/robot), assembly, coating, galvanizing
- Chuck count preference: 2 / 3 / 4 (or request recommendation)
- Laser power: state range, or request recommendation by wall thickness
- Source brand preference: Max / Raycus (more economical) / IPG (premium)
- Software preference: TubePro standard; specify if SolidWorks/Pro-E/UG integration needed
- Voltage: typically 380V 3-phase
- Destination country: CE / FDA requirements
- Auto loading: optional accessory available; specify if needed
Related reading on the HORISTAR site:
- Fiber Laser Power for Sheet Metal Thickness — for buyers comparing sheet vs tube workload
- Sheet and Tube Laser Cutting Machine (HM-SP series) — combination machine option
- Laser Cut Edge Finishing Before Powder Coating — downstream edge prep
- Handheld Laser Welding vs TIG/MIG — downstream welding decision
- How to Choose a Laser Welding Machine — full welding category
- Importing CNC and Laser Machines from China — shipping and certification
Specification Checklist
| Specification | What to request | Why it protects the buyer |
|---|---|---|
| Model | HM6P / HM8P / HM12P — state | Locks length capability |
| Tube shapes supported | List all needed | Prevents incompatibility |
| Diameter range | 20–220 mm or 20–350 mm | Sizes chuck and supports |
| Wall thickness range | By material | Sizes laser power |
| Chuck count | 2 / 3 / 4 — explicit | Biggest cost-and-capability decision |
| Zero-tailing capability | Yes/No in writing | Material cost savings |
| Laser source | Brand + model + kW (e.g., “IPG YLS-6000”) | “6 kW fiber” is not a spec |
| Source warranty | 24–36 months | Highest-value component |
| Control system | FSCUT preferred | Industry standard |
| Drive + motor | BOCHU / Yaskawa / Fuji / Panasonic | Japanese drives preferred |
| Software | TubePro + TubesT explicitly | Production software |
| CAD import | SolidWorks, Pro-E, UG, STEP, IGES | Match shop drafting standard |
| Position accuracy | ±0.05 / 1000 mm | Per IS0 230-2 |
| Repeat accuracy | ±0.03 / 1000 mm | Per ISO 230-2 |
| Auto loading / unloading | Required or optional | Affects single-shift capacity |
| Auto Z-axis tracking | Standard | Cleaner cuts on irregular tube |
| Tube recognition camera | Standard or optional | Reduces operator skill |
| Safety package | Guards, E-stop, interlocks | ISO 12100 / OSHA compliance |
| Documentation | Manual, electrical, CE | Speeds install and import |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose a tube laser cutting machine?
Choose by six variables: tube shape (round/square/rectangular/profile), diameter range (20–220 mm standard, 20–350 mm extended), wall thickness (drives laser power), loading length (HM6P 6 m, HM8P 8 m, HM12P 12 m), chuck count (2/3/4 — the most under-discussed decision), and laser power (1–20 kW). The chuck-count decision alone can swing the price by USD 30,000–50,000, so get it right before signing.
Why does chuck count matter so much?
Chuck count decides three things at once: tail waste, long-tube support, and rotation accuracy. 2-chuck machines leave 100–200 mm of waste per tube (USD 1,000–3,000/month in scrap at production volumes); 3-chuck machines reduce waste and improve 6–8 m tube stability; 4-chuck machines achieve zero tailing plus the best accuracy and the longest tube (12 m) support. The 4-chuck premium (USD 30,000–50,000 vs 2-chuck) often pays back in 18–24 months through material savings alone at production volumes.
What is “zero tailing” technology?
Zero tailing is a 4-chuck configuration that cuts the tube all the way to its physical end — eliminating the 100–200 mm of waste that a 2-chuck machine must leave to maintain clamping. The chucks hand off the tube between each other as it progresses. At 1,000 tubes/month with 150 mm waste each, zero tailing saves 150 m of steel/month = USD 750–2,250/month depending on material cost. Over 5 years that is USD 45,000–135,000 in material recovered.
What laser power do I need for tube cutting?
Power matches wall thickness more than diameter. 1.5–3 kW for 1–3 mm walls (furniture, gym, automotive trim); 3–6 kW for 3–6 mm walls (most structural and agricultural work); 6–12 kW for 6–10 mm walls (heavy structural, construction); 12–20 kW for 10–16 mm walls (industrial scaffolding, large frames). For walls over 16 mm, request a sample-cut feasibility test before quoting.
What is TubePro and why is it important?
TubePro is the global standard control software for tube laser machines, made by Bochu. It handles 3D part import (SolidWorks, Pro-E, UG, STEP, IGES), automatic nesting via TubesT module, 3D cut simulation, tube recognition through camera, auto Z-axis tracking, and zero-tailing coordination. All HORISTAR HM-P tube lasers ship with TubePro standard. Confirm “TubePro” by name in your RFQ — some lower-cost competitors substitute limited-feature alternative software.
What is the position accuracy of a tube laser?
HORISTAR HM-P series specifies ±0.05 mm per 1,000 mm positioning and ±0.03 mm per 1,000 mm repeat positioning. In production terms, a hole on a 6 m tube will be within ±0.3 mm of its programmed position, and identical tubes will have holes within ±0.18 mm of each other. This is significantly tighter than band saw + manual layout (±1–3 mm typical) and matches the accuracy of European premium brands at lower cost.
How much does a tube laser cutting machine cost?
Indicative FOB China bands by configuration: HM6P with 2-chuck + 3 kW Raycus USD 80,000–110,000; HM6P with 3-chuck + 6 kW USD 110,000–140,000; HM6P with 4-chuck zero-tailing + 6 kW IPG USD 140,000–180,000; HM12P with 4-chuck + 12 kW IPG USD 200,000–280,000. Auto loading/unloading adds USD 15,000–35,000. Software, training and standard accessories typically included; specify shipping terms separately.
Should I buy a dedicated tube laser or a sheet-and-tube combination machine?
If tube work is less than 40% of total laser demand, the HM-SP combination series saves capital and floor space. If tube work is more than 60% of demand, the dedicated HM-P is faster (no changeover), more accurate (no rotary repositioning error), supports zero tailing, and handles longer 8–12 m material. Between 40–60%, run the math on actual changeover time and material savings.
What should I test before shipment?
Test 3 tube shapes (round + square + rectangular), 3 wall thicknesses, 4 feature types (round hole, slot, miter cut, end cope), full 6/8/12 m stock length, software import directly from your CAD format (SolidWorks etc.), tail waste measurement (zero with 4 chucks), 2 hours continuous runtime, and dimensional measurement of 3 finished parts including hole-to-end position over the full tube length. A clean demo on a short round tube proves nothing about production capability.
What information should I send to HORISTAR for a quotation?
Send tube shapes (list all), material grades, diameter range, wall thickness range, loading length (6/8/12 m), feature types and quantity per tube, monthly volume, position tolerance, downstream process (welding/assembly/coating), chuck count preference (or ask for recommendation), source brand preference (Max/Raycus/IPG), voltage, destination country, and auto-loading preference. HORISTAR responds within 18 hours with a recommended HM-P configuration and sample-test plan.
Get a Quote or Free Sample Cutting
Ready to test the HM-P series on your own pipe and profile parts?
→ Request a Quote and Free Sample Cutting — send your tube list, material grades, and feature requirements; HORISTAR responds within 18 hours with a recommended HM-P model, chuck-count configuration, sample-cutting plan and lead-time estimate.
→ Browse the HORISTAR Tube Laser Cutting Machine range — HM6P / HM8P / HM12P with 2/3/4 chuck options, IPG/Raycus/MAX sources, FSCUT control, and TubePro software.
→ Browse the HORISTAR Sheet and Tube Laser Cutting Machine (HM-SP series) — for buyers needing both flat sheet and tube in one machine.
HORISTAR has 10+ years in CNC and laser machinery, ships to 150+ countries, holds ISO, CE and FDA approvals, and offers a 2-year warranty with 18-hour technical response.
Review Record
Content reviewed by the HORISTAR Laser Application Team on 2026-06-25 for HM-P series model selection (HM6P/HM8P/HM12P), chuck-count decision logic (2/3/4 chuck), zero-tailing economics, TubePro software workflow, ROI math vs band saw + drill press, industry-specific recommendations, sample-test protocols, and machinery/laser safety source mapping. Last technical review: 2026-06-25.
Sources
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HORISTAR, Tube Laser Cutting Machine — HM6P / HM8P / HM12P specifications. ↩
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Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 29 CFR 1910.212 General requirements for all machines. ↩
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Electronic Code of Federal Regulations, 21 CFR 1040.10 Laser products. ↩
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International Organization for Standardization, ISO 12100:2010 Safety of machinery — Risk assessment and risk reduction. ↩
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International Organization for Standardization, ISO 9013:2017 Thermal cutting — Classification of thermal cuts. ↩
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International Organization for Standardization, ISO 2768-1:1989 General tolerances for linear and angular dimensions. ↩
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International Organization for Standardization, ISO 11553-1:2020 Safety of machinery — Laser processing machines. ↩
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International Organization for Standardization, ISO 13849-1:2023 Safety-related parts of control systems. ↩
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International Electrotechnical Commission, IEC 60204-1:2016 Electrical equipment of machines. ↩