CO2 Lasers

CO2 Lasers

CO2 lasers use contained CO2 gas to produce their energy. CO2 lasers, which can run for thousands of hours before new CO2 supply is needed, work very well with most metals, wood, plastics, ceramics, glass, and quartz.

Three kinds of carbon dioxide lasers are most common, including transverse gas flow, axial gas flow, and sealed tube. With the use of transverse gas flow carbon dioxide lasers, high power ratings and constant laser operation are provided when CO2 gas flows across the tube. In contrast, axial gas flow carbon dioxide lasers use gas that flows through one end of the tube and out of the other. Efficiency increases when nitrogen and helium are inserted; the gas stays in the tube with the use of sealed tube carbon dioxide lasers. This type of CO2 laser produces a longer CO2 wavelength.

CO2 lasers are used for deep cutting and welding applications. CO2 lasers are also commonly used in the medical industry for processes such as skin resurfacing, laser surgery, facelifts, and dermabrasion.