A neodymium: yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) laser used in a pulsed mode is coupled to and passed through a single quartz fiber optic cable at peak power levels required for laser material processing. This flexible fiber permits laser cutting, drilling, and welding of metals with a robot. Metals in excess of 2 mm (0.080 inches) thick have been laser cut.

Topics
Robotics, Fiber optic devices, Laser cutting, Chemical elements, Laser materials, Welding
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© 1984 Laser Institute of America.
1984
Laser Institute of America
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