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A Breif Overview Of 4 Types Of Lasers

Author: Lewis Geraci
by Lewis Geraci
Posted: Sep 05, 2017

Laser cutting is a technology which has proved its effectiveness over the last couple of decades. Optimum precision and accuracy is achieved with the help of Metal Laser Cutting Services, thus making it an essential component in most fabrication shops across the states. A concentrated laser beam makes even the cutting of thick materials relatively easy as compared to the traditional beam of light. A concentrated laser beam can heat a workpiece to the point where the piece is severed precisely. There is a wide range of laser machines available in the market today. This article is composed with intention to provide readers with a useful information pertaining to types of lasers and what differentiates one from another laser. Read on to know more about it.

CO2 Lasers. CO2 lasers, also known as the gas lasers, are based on the mixture of electrically stimulated carbon dioxide gas. Gas laser was one of the earliest introduced laser in the market, which also runs on a gas mixture of helium, nitrogen, hydrogen, water vapor, and xenon. Wavelength of 10.6 micrometers makes them the most ideal for cutting non-metal materials and plastic parts. High on efficiency, gas lasers feature a very good beam quality which makes them as the most widely used laser types across various industries. CO2 lasers are also extensively used for medical needs such as treating skin conditions and soft tissue surgeries. Laser causes less bleeding, shorten surgery times, and have relatively lesser risk of swelling and post-op infections.

Fiber Lasers. Fiber lasers are highly recommended for amplifying light. The concept behind these type of lasers is same to a very extent as that of gas lasers and laser diodes. Intensity of fiber lasers is nearly 100 times higher than gas lasers while emitting same average power. Advantages of using fiber lasers for Metal Laser Cutting Services include the free movability of a fiber in laser cutting, providing extensive power thus resulting in higher optical gains, complete elimination of thermal distortion on optical's path, and reliability even during vibrations.

Crystal Lasers. Crystal lasers belong to the solid-state lasers very much similar to the fiber lasers and share the same wavelength too, but the similarity ends there. Crystal laser types include relatively costly pump diodes, which are wearing and tearing parts. They need to be replaced after 8000-15000 laser hours. The downside is a shorter service life as compared to fiber lasers. Metals, ceramics, coated metals, and plastics are some materials for which crystal lasers are most suited.

Nd: Yag Lasers. Neodymium: yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser is pretty much like an argon laser due to its absorption by the pigment. The difference between the both is that Nd:Yag laser has the ability to penetrate deeper into a human tissue. It also speeds up blood clotting which allows surgeons to work on body parts which are only possible to reach if you opt for an open surgery. Nd:Yag lasers are also used to remove tattoos and pigmented lesions.

These were some of the most commonly used laser types by different industries to meet their needs and requirements.

About the Author

A-Laser offers high quality laser cutting services and precision parts manufacturing using Ultra Violet (UV), Infrared (IR) and CO2 laser technology.

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Author: Lewis Geraci

Lewis Geraci

Member since: Mar 07, 2017
Published articles: 3

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