Laird Technologies Publishes Thermal Management for Medical Lasers Application Note

Thermoelectric Modules & Assemblies for Medical Laser Applications

The application note describes why Thermoelectric Modules (TEMs) and Thermoelectric Assemblies (TEAs) are ideal thermal management solutions for many medical laser applications such as CO2 lasers, YAG lasers, dye lasers, excimer lasers, free electron lasers, diode lasers and fiber lasers. Thermoelectrics are used keep the laser optics stable at peak performance by controlling the operating temperature of the medical laser to within defined parameters. Excess waste heat generated from the laser system is removed by offering cooling below ambient. The products also offer reliable solid-state operation, which results in long service life with low maintenance requirements.

“Thermoelectrics make an excellent thermal management solution for medical laser applications due to the high cooling performance achieved in a compact form factor and precise temperature control to maximize temperature stabilization of a laser head.” stated Andrew Dereka, Laird Technologies Thermoelectrics Product Manager. “This cannot be accomplished by any other means without a complex heating and cooling system.”

Thermal management of medical laser components and systems are now more challenging. Power densities continue to increase while product form factors continue to shrink. Simple thermal management solutions, such as adding a fan or heat sink, are no longer typically viable to meet required performance and reliability specifications. In today’s complex medical operating environment, TEMs, TEAs and chillers are necessary to provide precision cooling and heating in a variety of modular platforms.

As an industry leader in high-performance and cost-effective Thermal Management Solutions, Laird Technologies provides the knowledge, innovation, and resources to ensure exceptional thermal performance and customer satisfaction for applications in the medical, analytical, telecom, industrial, and consumer markets.