Types of Lasers Used for Cleaning
Laser cleaning is typically performed using specialized cleaning lasers (denoted by CL head symbols). However, welding lasers (marked as CW – continuous wave) have recently gained popularity due to their high power and lower cost. Despite this, CW lasers lack the precision and control offered by CL lasers, making them less suitable for high-accuracy cleaning applications.
In industrial cleaning, marking lasers (which operate with short or ultrashort pulse durations) are rarely used due to their highly aggressive Gaussian beam profile. While all laser cleaning systems operate on the same fundamental principle, Gaussian-profile lasers create micro-perforations on the surface, which may be advantageous for subsequent chemical processing or painting but detrimental in applications requiring a smooth finish, such as mold making.
Laser Cleaning Myths & the Importance of Proper Selection
There are many misconceptions surrounding laser cleaning, but the truth is that selecting the wrong laser source for a given application can lead to complications in future processing. Not every laser delivers the same results on all surfaces, and improper selection can negatively impact the workpiece’s usability.
For historical restoration, only CLF (CL Flat) lasers are acceptable, as other laser types may cause irreversible surface damage.
Material Removal & Surface Structuring
During laser cleaning, removed material is immediately extracted using a dedicated contamination removal system, ensuring a clean and safe working environment.
It’s crucial to understand that the laser type influences the final surface texture, which must align with the end-user’s requirements. Proper laser selection is essential to achieving the desired surface quality while maintaining material integrity.
