Photonic Tools has developed a robust, fiber-bonded laser guidance system for ultrafast lasers, which guarantees the highest possible transmission while preserving the laser beam parameters. The trick: The laser beam is directed through "nothing". For this we use the latest generation of micro-structured hollow-core fibers.
The triumph of high-powered lasers for industrial application began with the fiber-bonded beam guidance system. Until now there have not been any comparable standard components for ultrafast lasers that bring the light from the source to the work surface. Normally the laser beam is transmitted through free space in an optical system that is made up of piecemeal catalog components – resulting in serious disadvantages in terms of reliability and maintenance.
With a fiber-bonded laser guidance system for ultrafast lasers it is important to prevent the high pulse energy from damaging the optics. As pulses become longer over the distance travelled, additional optical elements are required. And because the ultrafast pulses are accompanied with a short spectrum, optical corrections are required to compensate for the chromatic aberrations. Until now there have not been any suppliers that could deliver from one source, for industrial production, the connection between the laser beam and the work surface – and also be able to offer a competent service support for the lifetime of the product. Times have now changed.
Photonic Tools offers a robust, fiber-bonded beam guidance system for ultrafast lasers that guarantee maximum transmission and preserve the laser beam parameters. We transmit the laser beam through the pathway where the least interaction takes place: The "nothing". For this we use the latest generation of micro-structured hollow-core fibers. By means of a specific microstructure, the laser beam is directed through the hollow core region filled with air or gas. For protection from stress in an industrial environment, the fiber is – as with all conventional guidance systems for high-powered lasers – integrated in a stable laser light cable. Coupling elements and connectors serve as a reliable connection to the periphery.
The modular design consisting of laser light cable, coupling elements and connectors guarantee the maximum flexibility in the selection of laser sources and fiber types. The external coupling element allows the reliable coupling of the laser light with the fiber. And the newly developed cable connector from Photonic Tools with mechanical interface ensures that the laser light cable can be easily and precisely integrated in the existing structures – including dust protection and the highest laser safety.
