multi laser


ALE multi-laser technology is supplied with our various machine platforms when more than one laser source is required in order obtain faster processing times through more optical power or increased bandwidth. Each source in a multi-laser system uses AOM technology so fast laser switching can be achieved.

		Figure 1 (plan view)
Figure 1, (right), illustrates a 2 laser Multi-laser system configuration where each source supplied is of the same wavelength. For many of our standard applications we typically supply either 2 x 200/500 watt fibre laser sources or 2 x 500 watt sealed CO2 laser sources. 2 laser multi-laser system configurations often form part of a moving laser platform.

		Figure 2 (plan view)
Figure 2 illustrates a 4 laser Multi-laser system configuration common to our moving cylinder platform design. With the laser sources and optical systems static, up to 4 laser sources of the same wavelength can easily be situated on a single platform and focused via a single focusing lens.


		Figure 3 (plan view)
Figure 3 illustrates our Multi-laser technology with an additional focusing optic situated 180 degrees opposed for a different wavelength laser source. This 'Hybrid' configuration is for applications where substrates or materials for engraving vary in colour so the CO2 wavelength can be used for processing. For applications that require smaller focus spot dimensions, the 1micron wavelength, (or other), can be selected. When processing black materials, such as various natural or synthetic polymers, both wavelengths can be used for processing simultaneously. Fine surface structures are processed using the 1 micron laser and below surface structures receive the 10 micron wavelength.

	This configuration is popular in flexography where the 1 micron laser produces a superior engraving and print quality, (black materials), when compared to 10 micron wavelength, (CO2), engravings/prints. Flexo users also benefit from the flexibility to process a range of coloured substrates without the restriction of a single wavelength system.