There are primarily two types of a CO2 laser :
- fast-axial-flow CO2 laser
- transverse-flow CO2 laser
The techniques depend on the intended use and maximum power that can be extracted from the cavity.
Fast-axial-flow CO2 laser
Root pumps or turbines propel a gas mixture flowing at high speed. After introduction into the cavity consisting of glass tubes, the mixture continues to move axially and flows through heat exchangers for cooling.
The gas is partially released outside, while some new gas is injected simultaneously. The electrical excitation by continuous discharge or radio-frequency is carried out in different sections of the tube. A part of the beam passes through the semi-transparent output coupler and is transmitted to the workstation by fixed or moving mirrors.
Transverse-flow CO2 laser
Root pumps or turbines propel a gas mixture flowing at high speed. After introduction into the cavity consisting of glass tubes, the mixture continues to move axially and flows through heat exchangers for cooling.
Courtesy of IREPA LASER
