Fiber laser technology is a variation on the standard solid-state laser. The compact and rugged style of the laser helps to prevent alignment concerns as they come in several forms with advantages over other lasers. The JMT Nukon fiber lasers are the industry leader as they range in power from 1kW to 6kW. The machines developed at JMT are perfected and created by them and use the latest in technology to reduce costs and maintenance time.
Some of the new advantages to fiber lasers compared to thin disc or CO2 lasers include the following:
- CO2 lasers have a typical wavelength of 10.6 µm with approximately 8% efficiency. They require internal optic alignments, replacements and cleanings, as well as rebuilds and cleanings and oil and grease replacements. Alignment, cleaning and replacement of external optics is also needed.
- Thin Disk lasers have a typical wavelength of 940nm with approximately 28% efficiency. They also require internal optic alignment, cleaning and replacement, as well as external optic alignment, cleaning and replacement.
- Fiber Lasers have a typical wavelength of 1069nm with approximately 38% efficiency. The fiber laser only requires external optics alignment, cleaning and replacement; there are no internal optics to maintain.
Features of Fiber Lasers
We prefer fiber lasers as they are highly adaptable. They can be used for welding heavy sheets of metal and they provide several variations. Fiber amplifiers can be used in telecommunications due to the amplification of several wavelengths simultaneously.
High Efficiency Output
Fiber lasers function on a quasi-three-level system, allowing for greater efficiency output. There is a two-stage processes used to provide efficiency, the pump diode and the optical-to-optical conversion.
Configuration Advantages
The continuous-wave fiver lasers are designed to be single or multimode. The single mode offers a high-quality beam where the multimode can generate higher raw power. For some types of cutting and welding, the multimode provides advantages as the larger area is illuminated.
Future of Laser Technology
We are seeing a large growth in fiber-laser technology. The automotive industry is in high demand for fiber-laser and we are seeing several replacements to non-fiber lasers with the new fiber lasers. At Sanson Machinery, we recommend fiber lasers as they are performing at a greater output, reduce costs, and provide a cleaner output.
For more information about fiber lasers, contact Sanson Machinery (425) 513-8263!