A control system is provided for a laser-equipped machine tool which is capable of preventing self-burning. The temperature of the workpiece proximate the cut is monitored, and a numerical control compares the actual workpiece temperature to a prestored temperature limit, empirically determined, which is predictive of the onset of self-burning. If the workpiece temperature approaches or reaches the limit, an abort signal is generated. Upon generation of an abort signal the control processor deenergizes the laser to prevent commencement of self-burning. In addition the processor stores the cutting parameters and the coordinate locations of the aborted cut, so that the processor can later return to finish the cut, and sets a cool-down timer. The processor then causes movement to a next available cutting position, tests the temperature at that position, then commences cutting. When cutting in the second location is complete, if a cool-down timer has expired, the cutting head is traversed to the aborted position, and then the processor retrieves stored information and completes the cut.

Current U.S. Class:	219/121.72; 219/121.62; 219/121.67; 219/121.83; 700/166
Intern'l Class:	B23K 026/38
Field of Search:	219/121.61,121.62,121.63,121.67,121.72,121.83 700/166