Preliminary processing with a novel high average power direct diode laser (HPDDL)

Many industrial processes have now been demonstrated using high power diode lasers. The ease of use and the high wallplug efficiencies associated with diode lasers are balanced against the current limit on the brightness available; this also compromises their cutting and welding efficiency. For welding with diode lasers, enhanced absorption due to keyholing has only so far been achieved in the laboratory and this has been achieved at the cost of very short working distances. Similarly, the capital cost of current systems are too high to compensate for the shortcomings in brightness. In this work a novel, cost effective high power laser has been developed and some initial characterization and processing is described. This laser is aimed at achieving incremental increases in brightness and reducing system costs to the point at which these new sources may effectively compete with conventional lasers.