Copper vapor lasers in a MOPA-chain (MOPA, master-oscillator- power-amplifier) configuration with low divergence can be used for the high precision machining of metals and ceramics. The fundamental interaction phenomena, ablation process and possible industrial applications are presented. The following paper relates the results and experiences in the operation of a copper vapor laser MOPA chain, consisting of an oscillator and up to three amplifiers, with the triggering points for these lasers exactly variable through a master-timing-system. In principle, a low-divergent laser beam is generated (511 and 578 nm wavelengths) via an off-axis unstable resonator scheme, with precise synchronization of the amplifiers producing average powers of over 140 W. Due to the excellent beam focusability, peak power densities of some 10¹⁰W/cm² are achievable in a 50 ns pulse duration, which provides almost material-independent precision machining at high velocities. Beginning from the principles of beam-target reciprocation, the removing and cutting of metallic as well as non-metallic materials with copper vapor lasers is described. Additionally, the potential of copper vapor lasers for industrial applications is illustrated through precision machining examples.

Date Published: 4 April 1997
PDF: 4 pages
Proc. SPIE 3092, XI International Symposium on Gas Flow and Chemical Lasers and High-Power Laser Conference, (4 April 1997); doi: 10.1117/12.270238

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 3092:
XI International Symposium on Gas Flow and Chemical Lasers and High-Power Laser Conference
Denis R. Hall; Howard J. Baker, Editor(s)