Laser and Its Processing System — Laser Parameters
Laser, as a highly specialized tool, its performance and parameters directly affect its effectiveness and applicability in different applications. Here are the key parameters of lasers and their impacts:
1. Wavelength
Definition: The wavelength of the laser output, usually measured in nanometers (nm).
Impact: Determines how the laser interacts with materials, including absorption, transmission, reflection, and optical characteristics.
2. Output Power
Definition: The optical power output of the laser, typically measured in watts (W).
Impact: Determines the laser's processing capability per unit time. Higher output power improves processing speed and efficiency.
3. Mode
Definition: Refers to the spatial and temporal characteristics of laser oscillation.
Impact: Gaussian modes (TEM00) typically produce high-quality beams suitable for precision processing. Multimode lasers are used in high-power applications such as cutting and welding.
4. Pulse Width
Definition: Specific to pulsed lasers, it refers to the duration of the pulse.
Impact: Affects the energy delivery over time and the thermal influence area. Used in processes requiring fine control, such as laser marking and ultrafast laser processing.
5. Pulse Repetition Rate
Definition: The number of pulses emitted per second by a pulsed laser.
Impact: Determines the amount of processing completed per unit time. High repetition rates are suitable for high-efficiency, large-area processing needs.
6. Resonator Characteristics
Definition: The optical resonator structure and characteristics inside the laser.
Impact: Determines beam quality, stability, and power conversion efficiency. Optimizing the resonator improves overall laser performance and reliability.
7. Tuning Range
Definition: Some lasers can change their output wavelength range by adjusting parameters.
Impact: Increases laser flexibility and applicability, allowing optimal processing wavelengths for different materials and applications.
8. Stability and Reliability
Definition: Performance of the laser over extended periods of operation.
Impact: Affects stable processing effects in production environments and the equipment's service life, crucial for industrial applications.
9. Beam Quality
Definition: Describes the spatial characteristics of the laser output beam, typically quantified by the M² factor.
Impact: High beam quality ensures laser transmission over long distances and small focused spot sizes, suitable for high-precision and microprocessing applications.
Applications and Selection:
Choosing the right laser involves considering specific application requirements, including material type, processing precision, speed requirements, and budget constraints. Different types of lasers perform differently in these parameters, so a comprehensive evaluation and selection based on actual needs ensures optimal processing results and economic benefits.
