Sealed all-metal CO2 laser tube technology
Abstract
A newly developed RF plasma configuration for CO2 lasers is described, that offers high performance at low cost, using an all-metal, sealed-off laser tube design. The plasma bore of 5-mm square cross section supports a free-space TEM(00) optical model and a laser power density 1/3 that of CO2 waveguide lasers, allowing fabrication of compact sealed-off CO2 lasers from 10 to 100 watts with good optical and mechanical integrity. Design and manufacturing factors are discussed that affect gas life, beam quality, modulation, optical stability, and cost.
- Publication:
-
Lasers 1988; Proceedings of the International Conference
- Pub Date:
- 1989
- Bibcode:
- 1989lase.conf..316B
- Keywords:
-
- Carbon Dioxide Lasers;
- Laser Materials;
- Radio Frequencies;
- Tube Lasers;
- Waveguide Lasers;
- Free Electrons;
- Laser Outputs;
- Metals;
- Sealing;
- Lasers and Masers