New Diode Laser Systems for Materials Processing Include Highest Power Yet Available

Free space beam delivery preserves the inherent brightness of the diode laser source and enables the use of an optical system with a large (275 mm) working distance. Together, these factors translate directly into enhanced laser capabilities in industrial processing applications. Specifically in cladding, it yields a higher material deposition rate (up to 18 pounds/hour), allowing the laser to “paint-on” metal. Production speed is increased to new benchmark levels in both cladding and heat treating due to the HighLight D-Series’ higher power and longer line beams allowing processing of larger areas in a single pass.

The HighLight D-Series includes products with output powers of 2 kW, 4 kW, 6 kW and 8 kW (all at 975 nm), thus addressing the varying requirements of the worldwide industrial market. The unique design of the compact laser head enables a wide range of output beam size options that won’t restrict application deployment. For example, the 6 kW and 8 kW models are each offered with line beam dimensions of 1 mm width and either 6 mm, 12 mm or 24 mm length. Lower power systems have additional beam lengths of 3 mm, 4 mm, or 5 mm. Furthermore, an optional beam shaping accessory can expand the 1 mm beam width dimension to 3 mm, 4 mm, 5mm, 6 mm, 8 mm or 12 mm.

Various industrial options facilitate ease-of-use of the HighLight D-Series. These include an air knife, which protects the laser from back-splattered material, heat and returned laser light, thus extending system lifetime. A pyrometer for monitoring work surface temperature enables closed-loop control of laser power during heat treatment and cladding. Features to enhance productivity include a laser system control unit with a simple graphical interface, and remote diagnostics that allow system operation to be analyzed by Coherent service personnel over the internet.