The Expanding Role of Laser Processing in Metals, Glass, and Beyond

Influence of Wavelength on Laser Technological Processes

The wavelength of the laser significantly influences the process, especially for materials like structural steel. Lasers emitting in ultraviolet, visible, near and distant infrared areas have been analyzed for their critical power density for melting and evaporation (Lazov, Angelov, & Teirumnieks, 2019).

Diverse Applications Based on Wavelengths

The choice of laser wavelength is not arbitrary but is highly dependent on the material's properties and the desired outcome. For example, UV lasers (with shorter wavelengths) are excellent for precision engraving and micromachining, as they can produce finer details. This makes them ideal for the semiconductor and microelectronics industries. In contrast, infrared lasers are more efficient for thicker material processing due to their deeper penetration capabilities, making them suitable for heavy industrial applications. (Majumdar & Manna, 2013).Similarly, green lasers, typically operating at a wavelength of 532 nm, find their niche in applications requiring high precision with minimal thermal impact. They are particularly effective in microelectronics for tasks like circuit patterning, in medical applications for procedures like photocoagulation, and in the renewable energy sector for solar cell fabrication. Green lasers' unique wavelength also makes them suitable for marking and engraving diverse materials, including plastics and metals, where high contrast and minimal surface damage are desired. This adaptability of green lasers underscores the importance of wavelength selection in laser technology, ensuring optimal outcomes for specific materials and applications.

The 525nm green laser is a specific type of laser technology characterized by its distinct green light emission at the wavelength of 525 nanometers. Green lasers at this wavelength find applications in retinal photocoagulation, where their high power and precision are beneficial. They are also potentially useful in material processing, particularly in fields that require precise and minimal thermal impact processing.The development of green laser diodes on c-plane GaN substrate towards longer wavelengths at 524–532 nm marks a significant advancement in laser technology. This development is crucial for applications requiring specific wavelength characteristics

Continuous Wave and Modelocked Laser Sources

Continuous wave (CW) and modelocked quasi-CW laser sources at various wavelengths like near-infrared (NIR) at 1064 nm, green at 532 nm, and ultraviolet (UV) at 355 nm are considered for laser doping selective emitter solar cells. Different wavelengths have implications for manufacturing adaptability and efficiency (Patel et al., 2011).

Excimer Lasers for Wide Band Gap Materials

Excimer lasers, operating at a UV wavelength, are suitable for processing wide-bandgap materials like glass and carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP), offering high precision and minimal thermal impact (Kobayashi et al., 2017).

Nd:YAG Lasers for Industrial Applications

Nd:YAG lasers, with their adaptability in terms of wavelength tuning, are used in a wide range of applications. Their ability to operate at both 1064 nm and 532 nm allows for flexibility in processing different materials. For instance, the 1064 nm wavelength is ideal for deep engraving on metals, while the 532 nm wavelength provides high-quality surface engraving on plastics and coated metals.(Moon et al., 1999).

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High Power Fibre Laser Welding

Lasers with wavelengths close to 1000 nm, possessing good beam quality and high power, are used in keyhole laser welding for metals. These lasers efficiently vaporize and melt materials, producing high-quality welds (Salminen, Piili, & Purtonen, 2010).

Integration of Laser Processing with Other Technologies

The integration of laser processing with other manufacturing technologies, such as cladding and milling, has led to more efficient and versatile production systems. This integration is particularly beneficial in industries such as tool and die manufacturing and engine repair (Nowotny et al., 2010).