Material Processing: When to Measure Your Laser

Most posts here are about how to measure laser power and beam profile.

Today let’s discuss when to measure them.

First, in material processing the number one factor for how a laser will interact with the work piece is it’s power density, which is power divided by beam area.  That’s why it’s so important to know the laser beam power and size.

But when must the measurements be made?

There are 5 points in the laser system life cycle, at which it is crucial that these measurements be made.

But don’t take my word for it.  Kenneth Ferree, Ophir’s Director of Sales (with over 20 years of experience in the laser industry) will take you through each step of the laser life cycle – and when measurement is absolutely necessary:

Materials Processing: When Laser Measurements Absolutely, Positively Must Be Made