CO2 laser engravers work by generating a high-powered laser beam from a gas mixture, which is then focused to precisely cut, engrave, or mark materials.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
1. Laser Beam Generation:
- A CO2 laser engraver utilizes a sealed tube filled with a gas mixture, typically containing carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen (N2), helium (He), and sometimes hydrogen (H2) or xenon (Xe).
- High voltage electricity is discharged into this gas mixture.
- This electrical discharge excites the gas molecules, primarily nitrogen. The excited nitrogen molecules then transfer their energy to the carbon dioxide molecules.
- The energized CO2 molecules release energy in the form of photons, creating infrared light.
- Mirrors at each end of the tube amplify the light through reflection. One mirror is fully reflective, while the other is partially reflective, allowing some of the laser beam to escape. This escaping light forms the laser beam used for engraving or cutting.
2. Beam Delivery and Focusing:
- The laser beam exits the tube and is directed through a series of mirrors within the engraver. These mirrors guide the beam along a predefined path to the cutting head.
- The beam then passes through a focusing lens. This lens concentrates the broad laser beam into a very small, intense point of energy.
3. Material Interaction:
- The focused laser beam is directed onto the material to be processed.
- The intense energy of the laser beam vaporizes, melts, or burns away the material at the point of contact.
- The engraver's control system precisely moves the laser head, following a programmed path to create the desired engraving or cut.
4. Cooling System:
- CO2 lasers generate a significant amount of heat.
- A cooling system, usually using water or a refrigerant, is crucial to dissipate this heat and maintain optimal laser performance.
In summary, CO2 laser engravers work by using electricity to excite a gas mixture, creating a powerful laser beam. This beam is then focused and directed to precisely remove material, allowing for intricate engravings and cuts.
