Laser Beam Alignment[Adjustment Method]
Introduction
This tutorial is for assisting the laser machine maintenance person in aligning the laser
beam. The most important thing about getting your laser machine to work correctly is to
have the alignment correct. Doing the initial machine alignment can take as little as 15
minutes. A machine that has exceptional problems can take three hours to align the
laser tube, brackets, mirrors, focal head, and lens.
This method is should not be considered to be the only method or even considered as a
professional method. This method works great so far and uses minimal tools. After a bit
of reading and thinking about the procedure, a competent maintenance person should
be able to complete the alignment.
Overview:
Alignment is done in steps. These steps are specifically in an order such that the total
alignment gets done correctly. We expect that the laser tube excites properly, the
mirrors are clean and free of damage, the lens is clean and in good condition. If the
beam alignment is done right, then the machine will perform to top potential.
Materials:
Masking tape: The best masking tape.This tape has a low plastic content on the top
surface and it has less adhesive on the bottom. It will be easier for the laser to leave a
mark on the tape for us to see. The weak adhesive will not stick to the brackets
permanently and is easy to reposition.
Phillips-head screwdriver: Used to loosen/tighten the spring-loaded screws that tension
the mirror brackets.
Methaylated Spririts and Cutton buds :For cleaning.
1. Step 1
Make sure the laser tube is installed correctly. The laser tube needs to be situated so
that the laser beam exits and points into the first mirror. Allow about 25,4 mm between
the end of the laser tube and the mirror bracket. Please look at the picture and see how
to space the laser tube and first mirror under. It does not matter if the electrical
connectors are rotated top or bottom, but make sure the electrical connectors will be
safe from accidental pressure (the glass nipples are tender and easy to break). We
have secured the electrical connectors with basic electrical tape. The tape also acts as
a strain relief so the wire does not produce torque on the glass nipple.
Rotate the laser tube so that the coolant will automatically purge the air. The coolant
should exit the glass chamber at the top right of the laser tube. Notice the coolant exits
the cooling chamber of the glass. Do not be so concerned about the orientation of the
silicone tubes. You need to ensure the coolant will automatically exit the laser tube
without leaving a bubble. The bubble will prevent any fluid from cooling the laser tube
and output coupler lens. An overheated lens will become damaged and greatly reduce
the output power. The laser tube would need to be replaced.
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