The increasing demand for laser cutting and engraving services has created new job opportunities in the laser industry. As a result, there is a growing need for technicians and engineers who are knowledgeable in the use of cutting-edge tools like CO2 laser mirrors.
A CO2 laser mirror is a type of mirror used in a variety of laser-based applications. This article will explain what it takes to work as a CO2 laser mirror technician.
What are CO2 Laser Mirrors?
CO2 laser mirrors are used to reflect CO2 laser beams. They are made of special glass with metallic coatings, which helps to reflect the laser light.
These mirrors come in different shapes. They could be flat or curved, and the shape of the mirror and its angle determine the path of the laser’s beam. Therefore, for precision and accuracy in laser-based applications, CO2 laser mirrors are crucial.
Types of CO2 Laser Mirrors
There are different types of CO2 laser mirrors:
- Cavity Mirrors: Cavity mirrors from Pleiger, for example, are powerful, and specifically designed for CO2 laser cavities. These mirrors have the highest standards when it comes to reflection and stability.
- Copper Mirrors: In terms of high laser powers, copper mirrors are the ideal choice. And this is because copper has a high thermal conductivity. That makes them suitable for demanding operations such as welding, laser cutting, etc. Copper mirrors come in cylindrical, plane, spherical, parabolic, and toroidal shapes.
- Silicon Mirrors: When it comes to scanning systems, silicon mirrors are the favorite. Also, the cost of materials for these mirrors is relatively low.
- Molybdenum Mirrors: The strongest, most resilient, and longest-lasting laser mirrors are Molybdenum mirrors. They are the least thermally expansive commercially used metal. Molybdenum can withstand extremely high or low temperatures without appreciably expanding or softening.
Required Skills for CO2 Laser Mirrors Technicians
Generally, working with optics and laser technologies requires in-depth knowledge and experience. However, there are some required skills that are specific to laser mirrors. Here are some of them:
Understanding Mirror Mechanics
If you are searching for a job as a CO2 laser technician, then you need to understand how mirrors work in laser technology. Laser mirror professionals should understand and be able to control the path of the laser’s beam with the angle of reflection of the mirror. They must also be able to use the angle and the size of the pattern it creates by adjusting the mirror’s angle. Additionally, they must be able to choose the optimum kind of mirror for a specific application and be familiar with mirror adjustments to get the required outcomes.
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting skills are crucial for those working in the field of laser technology. Troubleshooting can help reduce costs and increase the quality of laser-based applications by preventing costly mistakes. Troubleshooting can be as simple as diagnosing problems, such as misaligned mirrors or uneven surfaces, making mirror adjustments to improve accuracy, and many more.
Safety
CO2 laser mirror experts must understand the possible risks posed by these mirrors. This is because lasers are very powerful and highly dangerous tools and can cause severe injury when not properly handled. Professionals should be able to identify potential risks and thoroughly understand safety precautions when handling these mirrors.
Conclusion
Understanding how to handle CO2 laser mirrors appropriately and safely can be the key to success in this line of work. The reason is that it requires great expertise and comes with significant risk. Since Laser technology poses significant risks, professionals in this industry must be knowledgeable, talented, and aware of them. These qualities can lead to a fruitful and satisfying career in laser technology.
