Free space beam delivery preserves the inherent brightness of the diode laser source and enables the use of an optical system with a large (275 mm) working distance. Together, these factors translate directly into enhanced laser capabilities in industrial processing applications. Specifically in cladding, it yields a higher material deposition rate (up to 18 pounds/hour), allowing the laser to “paint-on” metal. Production speed is increased to new benchmark levels in both cladding and heat treating due to the HighLight D-Series’ higher power and longer line beams allowing processing of larger areas in a single pass.
The HighLight D-Series includes products with output powers of 2 kW, 4 kW, 6 kW and 8 kW (all at 975 nm), thus addressing the varying requirements of the worldwide industrial market. The unique design of the compact laser head enables a wide range of output beam size options that won’t restrict application deployment. For example, the 6 kW and 8 kW models are each offered with line beam dimensions of 1 mm width and either 6 mm, 12 mm or 24 mm length. Lower power systems have additional beam lengths of 3 mm, 4 mm, or 5 mm. Furthermore, an optional beam shaping accessory can expand the 1 mm beam width dimension to 3 mm, 4 mm, 5mm, 6 mm, 8 mm or 12 mm.
Various industrial options facilitate ease-of-use of the HighLight D-Series. These include an air knife, which protects the laser from back-splattered material, heat and returned laser light, thus extending system lifetime. A pyrometer for monitoring work surface temperature enables closed-loop control of laser power during heat treatment and cladding. Features to enhance productivity include a laser system control unit with a simple graphical interface, and remote diagnostics that allow system operation to be analyzed by Coherent service personnel over the internet.