HOW LASER CLEANING WORKS
The laser unit sends high-energy light pulses at the target surface. When this light energy interacts with the contaminants on the surface, the energy is absorbed, and the contaminants will either be vaporised or be removed from the surface due to the pressure of the interaction.
While laser cleaning machines are typically characterized by their wave type, continuous wave or pulse, they are also defined by the two different beam profiles, Gaussian and flat-top, each with their benefits and unique applications.
The Gaussian beam is characterized by a bell-shaped intensity distribution, with a central peak and gradually decreasing intensity towards the edges. Gaussian beams are often used in applications requiring precision, such as laser cutting and engraving, due to the more intense focus of the laser's energy towards the center.
The flat-top beam has a more uniform intensity distribution across its cross-section, resembling a flat plateau rather than a bell curve. It provides a constant intensity over the beam's diameter, making it more delicate than the Gaussian profile.
The Different Types of Laser Units
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PULSED WAVE LASERS
These machines emit laser energy in short, well-defined pulses with a frequency in the range of nanoseconds. This allows for precise removal of contaminants without generating excessive heat, and makes them particularly well-suited for intricate tasks and delicate materials. They can be finely adjusted in terms of pulse duration, repetition rate, and energy output, offering a broad spectrum of applications, such as material processing and accurate surface preparation.
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CONTINUOUS WAVE
As the name suggests, continuous wave laser machines provide a continuous source of energy to heat and remove the contaminant from the surface of the substrate. These machines are easier to produce and are therefore the lowest cost of the available range of machines.
Improper use may result in notable heat buildup, potentially resulting in thermal harm to delicate materials or affecting the laser's operational efficiency.
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COMBINATION UNITS
These are a mix of both continuous wave and pulsed lasers to provide the best of both and are typically used in large-scale industrial applications with specialist equipment for automated removal of coatings and contaminants. These are typically in factories, manufacturing plants, and large workshops.
COOLING METHODS
There are two cooling methods for laser cleaning machines:
Air cooled units are typically lower powered, but are lightweight and portable, making them ideal for mobile contractors.
Water cooled units are much higher powered. These units are typically stationary in a workshop or can be made mobile in vans or on a trailer.