|
The CO2 laser is a gas laser where the active medium is carbon dioxide (CO2). Typically a mixture of carbon dioxide, nitrogen (N2) and helium (He), the laser gas is excited by high-voltage or high-frequency and circulated at high velocity inside the resonator. The resulting laser light has a wavelength of 10.6um (infrared range); the beam is transferred to the point of use through mirrors and lenses.
New developments in the field of CO2 lasers have led to the introduction of “Diffusion Cooled” laser resonators; these units are characterized by a compact design, the absence of forced gas circulation and reduced resonator gas usage. On the other hand, these types of resonators use a gas mixture with a higher degree of sophistication, requiring up to 6 components and often involving carbon monoxide (CO) and xenon (Xe).
Since they are commercially available at power levels up to 40kW, CO2 lasers are widespread in the industry, especially in applications requiring power levels of 2-12kW like:
- Laser cutting
- Laser welding
- Laser surface treatment
In order to guarantee a flawless operation of the resonator, gas purity is critical. With the quantity of optical components built into the resonator typically increasing with power levels, the effects of contaminated gases can lead to tremendous costs. Especially the levels for moisture (H2O) and hydrocarbons (THC) must be closely controlled; the competent laser gas supplier will ensure quality standards through the use of high purity base products and thorough filling procedures.
Further, in order to ensure that the cylinder’s high gas quality reaches the resonator, special attention has to be paid to the choice of gas supply equipment, like pressure regulators, hoses and fittings. |
.jpg)