he JQ Laser i series is the current flagship family of fiber laser tube cutting machines from JQ Laser (established 2006, machines installed in more than 150 countries). Developed by JQ Laser and enhanced with MicroStep CyberFab — European Industry 4.0 production software — the i series covers a complete range of models from the compact i6 to the heavy-duty i20, with tube diameters from 20 mm up to 500 mm and beyond.
This guide gives buyers everything they need before requesting a quote: the full model lineup with verified specifications, what actually drives the price, realistic 2026 market price context, return-on-investment logic, and a 10-point purchasing checklist.
1. What Is the JQ i Series?
The i series is a family of vertical tube laser cutting machines designed for round, square, rectangular, oval and special profiles — including angles, channels and H-beams. Each machine combines a rigid, vibration-reduced frame with gear-driven rotary chucks, a 3D cutting head, automatic focus adjustment and intelligent cutting-parameter management.
Two features set the i series apart from ordinary tube lasers:
European joint development
The i series is developed by JQ Laser and enhanced by MicroStep CyberFab (marketed in Europe as the MSF Pipe i5–i11). This means European engineering input on machine dynamics, safety and software — and CE-standard compliant design throughout the range.
Industry 4.0 software as standard
Every i-series machine can be equipped with MicroStep’s CyberFab production management platform and mCAM software. Order scheduling, nesting, production monitoring and data collection are connected in one intelligent ecosystem, giving manufacturers full visibility across the cutting process with less manual intervention.
2. Model Lineup and Verified Specifications
The i series covers the market from small-diameter production cutting to heavy sections. The table below combines data from JQ Laser’s official pages and the MicroStep MSF Pipe i5–i11 specification sheets.
| Model | Tube diameter (round) | Square tubes | Chuck load | Typical laser power | Bevel cutting |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| i5 | Ø20 – Ø120 mm | 20×20 – 120×120 mm | 100 kg | 3 – 6 kW | Yes |
| i6 | Ø20 – Ø160 mm | 20×20 – 160×160 mm | 160 kg | 3 – 6 kW | Yes |
| i9 | Ø20 – Ø240 mm | 20×20 – 240×240 mm | 300 kg | 3 – 6 kW | Yes |
| i11 | Ø20 – Ø280 mm | 20×20 – 280×280 mm | 600 kg | 3 – 6 kW | Yes |
| i20 | Ø50 – Ø500 mm | 50×50 – 500×500 mm | 1,600 kg | 3 – 6 kW | Yes |
| i14 / i26 | Larger-capacity models completing the family — contact JQ Laser for specifications | Yes | |||
Common to the series:
- 3D cutting head with bevel cutting (weld-preparation bevels supported)
- 2-chuck system with near-zero tailing residue (0 mm residue class)
- Positioning repeatability ±0.03 mm / 1000 mm
- Standard tube loading lengths 6 m / 9 m in, 3 m / 5 m out; longer on request
- Semi-automatic loading as standard; automatic bundle loading optional
- CyberFab control and mCAM software available on all models
- Fully or partially covered protective housing options
Note: specifications vary by configuration and market. Always confirm the final specification sheet with the JQ Laser team before ordering.
3. Safety and Certification
All i-series models (i5, i6, i9, i11, i14, i20, i26) are covered by FDA Laser Product Report RSC260723002-12 (Bay Area Compliance Laboratories Corp., report date 2026-08-03). The machines comply with 21 CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11, are Class IV laser products with enclosed protective housing, and carry full Class IV labeling. For the US market, the FDA documentation is ready for import and customs compliance.
4. What Drives the Price of an i-Series Machine?
Like all tube laser cutting machines, i-series pricing is configuration-driven. The same family can differ by tens of thousands of dollars depending on:
4.1 Model size and chuck capacity
Chuck load capacity (100 kg on the i5 up to 1,600 kg on the i20) is the biggest single factor. Larger chucks, heavier frames and bigger drive systems cost more — choose the smallest model that comfortably handles your heaviest tube.
4.2 Laser power
Power determines cutting speed and maximum wall thickness. The typical 3–6 kW range covers most fabrication work; higher power is available on request where thick-wall pipe or high-volume production demands it.
4.3 Tube length and loading
Longer loading systems (6 m, 9 m or more) reduce material waste. Automatic bundle loaders add throughput but increase price — calculate against your labor cost and volumes.
4.4 Software and automation
The MicroStep CyberFab platform and mCAM software are a differentiator of the i series. Whether you take the full Industry 4.0 package or a leaner configuration affects the price — and your long-term productivity.
4.5 Logistics, installation and warranty
Shipping, on-site installation (typically 3–5 working days), operator training and warranty terms all appear in the final price. Always compare quotes on a delivered-and-installed basis.
5. 2026 Market Price Context
Public listings in August 2026 give a useful frame for fiber laser tube cutting machine pricing:
- Entry-level small tube cutters from Chinese factories are commonly listed between US$8,000 and US$20,000 (e.g., 3 kW machines around US$8,000–9,000; general tube cutter listings around US$12,000–18,888 on B2B platforms such as Made-in-China).
- Dual-purpose plate-and-tube machines are listed roughly between US$26,800 and US$85,000 depending on power and table size.
For an i-series machine with European joint-development software and CE-standard design, a realistic planning budget is approximately US$250,000–90,000 depending on model and configuration (estimate based on the public market data above; actual pricing varies by market and options). The reliable way to get an exact number is to send JQ Laser your material list and expected output for a configuration-based quote.
6. i Series vs Other JQ Laser Lines
- i series (i5–i26): the flagship family — 3D bevel cutting, CyberFab Industry 4.0 software, diameters from 20 mm to 500 mm+. Choose the model that matches your tube sizes and chuck-load needs.
- KS series (high-speed): compact machines for small tubes (15–240 mm) with automatic chain loading — ideal for high-volume automotive and fitness parts where speed per part matters most.
- Laser plate machines and welding lines: if your operation also cuts plate or joins parts, JQ offers complementary plate lasers and laser welding systems for a complete production cell.
Not sure which fits? JQ Laser offers free pre-sales consulting with sample cutting — send your parts and volumes and they will recommend the machine and configuration that minimize your total cost.
7. 10-Point Buying Checklist
- Define your materials: tube types (round/square/rectangular), diameters, wall thicknesses, profiles (H-beam, angle, channel).
- Define lengths and volumes: longest tube, monthly tonnage, peak shift requirements.
- Weigh the heaviest tube and select the model whose chuck load covers it with margin (i5: 100 kg … i20: 1,600 kg).
- Choose laser power based on wall thickness and required speed — validate with sample cuts.
- Decide on loading/unloading automation against your labor cost.
- Confirm which software package is included: CyberFab control, mCAM, nesting and monitoring modules.
- Check protective housing and safety certification for your target market (FDA 21 CFR 1040.10/1040.11 for the US, CE for Europe).
- Compare quotes on delivered-and-installed basis, including training (JQ provides on-site installation and operator training in 3–5 working days).
- Review warranty, spare parts availability and after-sales response (JQ operates a 24-hour service line).
- Request a written offer with full configuration list, delivery timeline and customer references in your country.
8. Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the i5, i6, i9, i11 and i20?
They cover increasing tube diameters and chuck load capacities: i5 (Ø20–120 mm, 100 kg) up to i20 (Ø50–500 mm, 1,600 kg). Pick the smallest model that handles your heaviest and largest tubes — larger models cost more.
Can the i series cut H-beams and profiles?
Yes. The i series processes round, square, rectangular, oval and special profiles, including angles, channels and H-beams, with 3D bevel cutting for weld preparation.
What is MicroStep CyberFab?
CyberFab is an Industry 4.0 production management platform from European CNC specialist MicroStep, connecting machine operation, order scheduling, nesting, production monitoring and data collection in one ecosystem. It is available across the i series.
Is the i series FDA compliant for export to the United States?
Yes. Models i5–i26 are covered by FDA Laser Product Report RSC260723002-12 and comply with 21 CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11 (Class IV, enclosed protective housing, full labeling).
How much does an i-series machine cost?
Pricing is configuration-based. As a planning reference, i-series machines typically fall in the US$35,000–90,000 range depending on model and options (estimate). Contact JQ Laser with your material list for an exact quote.
How long does installation and training take?
JQ Laser dispatches technical service engineers for on-site installation; when site conditions are ready, installation and commissioning take 3–5 working days, followed by free operator and maintenance training.
Do you offer sample cutting before purchase?
Yes. JQ Laser provides free pre-sales technical consultation and sample cutting so you can validate speed, quality and edge finish on your real parts before ordering.
Get a Configuration-Based Quote
The fastest way to a reliable price is to send JQ Laser your material list, tube sizes and expected monthly volume. The sales and technical team responds within one working day.
- Email: info@jqlaser.com
- WhatsApp: +86 151-541-42241
Explore the i6 and i20 product pages, see the European version at MicroStep MSF Pipe i5–i11, or read how tube laser cutting improves production in the fitness equipment industry
