Laser tube, also known as glass sealed CO2 laser, is commonly referred to as laser tube or carbon dioxide laser tube due to its structure being encapsulated in a glass tube. The following is a detailed introduction to laser tubes:

1、 Working principle

The working principle of a laser tube is to excite high concentration CO2 gas through high-voltage discharge, thereby generating laser with a wavelength of 10.6um.

2、 Structural composition

The laser tube mainly consists of the following three parts:

Hard glass part: Made of GG17 material fired into discharge tubes, water-cooled sleeves, gas storage sleeves, and return pipes. Sealed off CO2 lasers typically have a three-layer casing structure, with the discharge tube at the innermost, a water-cooled jacket in the middle, and a gas storage jacket at the outermost. The return pipe is used to connect the discharge tube and the gas storage tube.

Resonant cavity section: composed of a total reflection mirror and an output reflection mirror. The total reflection mirror of a resonant cavity is generally based on optical glass, with a gold coating on the surface. The reflectivity of the gold film mirror near 10.6um is over 98%. The output mirror of the resonant cavity is made of germanium (Ge), an infrared material that can transmit 10.6um radiation, and is coated with multiple layers of dielectric film on top.

Electrode part: CO2 lasers generally use cold cathodes with a cylindrical shape. The selection of cathode material has a significant impact on the lifespan of the laser, requiring low sputtering rate and low gas absorption rate.

3、 Main specifications

The main specifications and models of laser tubes are based on laser power as the most important criterion. Laser tubes of different powers are mainly distinguished by their length. For example, a 60W laser tube has a length of 1200mm or 1250mm, while an 80W laser tube generally has a length of 1600mm.

4、 Main purpose

Laser tubes are mainly used in CO2 laser processing equipment, such as laser engraving machines, laser cutting machines, laser marking machines, etc.

5、 Performance indicators

Lifespan: As a consumable of laser engraving machines, the lifespan of laser tubes is the most important purchasing indicator for users. The difference in lifespan is mainly due to processing technology and design techniques. The working life of domestic laser tubes is generally around 1500 hours (taking 60W as an example).

Laser energy: Laser tubes with different performance have varying ***** light intensity.

Spot quality: determined by the laser tube mode and affected by the production process. The quality of the light spot directly affects the performance of users during use.

Stability: Products with poor performance are prone to issues such as air leakage and non external explosions in terms of stability.

6、 Precautions for use

The laser tube must be used under good circulating water cooling conditions.

A reliable laser power supply must be provided.

The wiring should be reliably insulated.