Cooling Options for Lasers of Different Power
The company also offers practical recommendations for the selection of cooling equipment for different types of laser machines.It compares cooling solutions for low-, medium-, and high-power lasers, analyzes the advantages and disadvantages of water cooling, air cooling, and hybrid cooling systems, and helps users choose the best solution for their equipment power, working environment, and budget, ensuring stable operation and extending equipment life.
Why is cooling so important to lasers?
Lasers generate a lot of heat when they are working, and if the heat is not dissipated quickly enough, it could affect the precision of the machining, or even damage the core components directly.For high-power lasers, the wrong cooling system is like putting a fan on a race car--it just won't cut it! Lasers of different powers have vastly different requirements for cooling efficiency and stability. We had to "prescribe the right medicine" to save money and avoid headaches.
Three basic principles for choosing a cooling solution.
Low-power laser (2000 watts).
Industrial cutting and welding equipment must use a split-type chiller with dual temperature controls.The heat generated by these machines is like a volcanic eruption. Ordinary water cooling can't contain it.In actual use, I have seen old-timers add a plate heat exchanger to the system, which can be used in conjunction with an air conditioner in the summer.
These are the things to avoid when choosing a cooling system.
Don't just look at the price tag! A certain manufacturer was selling a cheap water-cooled air conditioner, and after just three months the unit began to leak. The cost of fixing it was enough to buy a new one.The following three indicators are recommended for close scrutiny.
- The cooling capacity must be at least 20 % greater than the rated power of the laser.
- Check if the antifreeze is suitable for the local climate.
- A machine with built-in intelligence will save you a lot of worry.
A few tips for routine maintenance.
Even if you buy a top-of-the-line cooling system, you will still have problems if you don't change the coolant every six months.One way of saving time is to put a magnetic filter in the cooling water tank. This can automatically absorb metal fragments, and so the time between water changes can be extended from one month to three.In winter, be sure to drain all water from pipes to prevent them from bursting.
Finally, it must be stated that the cooling system is a "silent guardian" of the laser machine.It's better to spend a little more time up front to make sure you choose the right solution than to have to shut down and lose orders because the equipment overheats," says Chen. "It's absolutely worth it to spend the money.