Ophir-Spiricon Announces Integrated Industrial Laser Beam Analyzer for Nd:YAG and Diode Lasers

Ophir-Spiricon has announced Beam Cube, an integrated, industrial laser beam analyzer designed for high precision welding and cutting applications. Beam Cube measures beam profile, temporal pulse shape, focal spot position, and power up to 150W. The compact, portable unit incorporates a focal spot analyzer for measuring at or near the focal spot; a power meter to measure beam power; and a fast photodiode detector to measure the temporal pulse shape of the beam.



Beam Cube is designed for low and medium power pulsed industrial Nd:YAG and diode lasers. It can be used for pulsed or cw and vertical or horizontal beams. Unlike other devices, it's an integrated unit; there is no need to add beam modifying beam splitters, attenuators, or other components. The system measures power levels up to 150W and focal spot sizes as small as 5µm.



In order to obtain repeatable results for high precision laser welding and cutting, you have to tightly control the laser parameters, beam power, and temporal and spatial pulse shape, stated Ephraim Greenfield, VP Engineering, Laser Measurement Group, Ophir-Spiricon Inc. A number of devices provide beam profiling capabilities. Beam Cube takes the next step and integrates beam profiling with power measurement and temporal profiling. This allows users to closely monitor the process, then, as needed, to make corrections in order to obtain reproducible cutting and welding results.



Beam Cube measures average power, spatial beam profile, and temporal beam profile. The real-time intensity profile allows adjustment of the laser resonator and beam delivery optical system for optimum beam quality. Profiles can be viewed in 2D or 3D; the 3D form can be rotated to different angles and elevations. Temporal pulse shape can be measured and displayed alone or together with the beam profile on a PC, or can be output to an oscilloscope. Laser power can be measured to an accuracy of ±3 percent. All data can be digitally recorded and stored for later use.