Jul 21 2007
A new series of low-power, continuous-wave (CW) carbon-dioxide (CO2) lasers from Coherent, Inc. now offers high reliability operation for OEM applications.
The new DIAMOND C Series consists of sealed lasers with output powers of 30, 40, 55 and 70 watts at 10.6 µm. These lasers offer good amplitude stability (±5% for air-cooled models and ±3% for liquid-cooled units) and excellent output beam characteristics (M2 <1.2 for 30W and 55W systems, and M2 <1.3 for 40W and 70W models). For all models with improved cooling, the warranty is 24 months, and there are no gas refill requirements.
Based on several key design innovations, the new DIAMOND C Series achieves superior performance compared to earlier, sealed CW CO2 lasers. These innovations include the use of new components and new resonator materials that optimize both laser efficiency and lifetime. In addition, laser cooling and temperature control have been improved to further benefit both laser stability and lifetime.
Diamond C Series lasers are ideal for materials processing applications, such as marking and engraving, which generally require output powers less than 100 watts. And because the RF power supply is inside the compact laser head, these DIAMOND C Series lasers are easier for OEM system builders to integrate. Typical marking applications include processing plastics, paper, medical packaging, PC boards, and low-cost semiconductor products. Producing wood and plastic award plaques, keypads, rubber stamps, and stone and tile products are common engraving applications. These rugged DIAMOND C Series lasers are also well suited for applications involving textiles and textile-related products.