Beam profiling system ensures accurate laser performance

BeamCheck is an integrated laser measurement system that measures critical beam parameters in laser-based additive manufacturing: focal spot size, laser power, and laser power density at the build plane, and changes in spot size and power density over time.

Gary Wagner, General Manager, Ophir said: "Laser-based additive manufacturing processes, such as SLS and SLM, require consistent energy be delivered to the material so the power density is just right - neither too hot nor too cold - for successful material modification. BeamCheck determines if the laser is delivering the right amount of power, and if it is distributed and focused at the right location."

BeamCheck integrates a high resolution CCD camera for spatial measurements and a NIST-traceable power sensor for a complete analysis of the laser power density profile. The camera is precisely located at the build plane so an accurate power density model of the working laser beam can be made. A beam splitter directs a small percentage of the beam from the fibre laser to the camera, while the majority of the beam is directed to the integrated power sensor. From these measurements, an accurate beam spot size and power density can be derived.