Home » Retrofit from YAG Laser to Fiber Laser

Comparison Between Nd: YAG and Fiber Laser

1. Introduction

While Nd: YAG can be considered as an old generation laser, the Fiber Laser represents the cutting-edge technology. Here are some comparative insights:

sky fire laser retrofit YAG laser to fiber laser_YAG laser system vs Fiber laser system

2. Laser Light Efficiency

  • Nd: YAG Laser: Has an energy efficiency level of around 4%. Requires a significant water cooler system and comes with a high electricity cost.

  • Fiber Laser: Offers up to 35% conversion efficiency. A small chiller suffices for cooling.

3. Lifespan

  • Nd: YAG Laser: Lamp-pumped lifespan is around 1000hrs, and diode-pumped lifespan ranges between 10,000-20,000hrs.

  • Fiber Laser: The laser source lifespan can reach up to 100,000hrs.

4. Size

  • Nd: YAG Laser: Known for its bulky size.

  • Fiber Laser: Compact and can easily fit inside cutting machines.

sky fire laser retrofit YAG laser to fiber laser_YAG laser system vs Fiber laser system

5. Maintenance

  • Nd: YAG Laser: Requires regular cleaning and mirror alignment.

  • Fiber Laser: Maintenance-free, with only occasional need for protective lens and nozzle replacements.

6. Cost

  • Nd: YAG Laser: Initially, it might seem cheaper, but when accounting for the running cost and maintenance, it becomes more expensive in the long run.

  • Fiber Laser: Though a bit pricier at the onset, it proves to be more cost-effective considering the lower running and maintenance costs.

sky fire laser retrofit YAG laser to fiber laser_YAG laser vs Fiber laser in energy consumption

Transitioning to Fiber Laser: Essential Components

For those considering making the switch, here's a list of parts you'd need:

Image Part/Component Description
sky fire laser retrofit YAG laser to fiber laser_retrofit parts list_laser power
 Laser Power Fundamental for the operation of the fiber laser.
sky fire laser retrofit YAG laser to fiber laser_retrofit parts list_water chiller Water Chiller Dual temperature water chillers designed especially for cooling 1000W fiber lasers.
sky fire laser retrofit YAG laser to fiber laser_retrofit parts list_drag chain Drag Chain Essential for mechanical operations.
sky fire laser retrofit YAG laser to fiber laser_retrofit parts list_Z-axis tracking system and software Z-axis tracking system and software Helps in the precise movement and tracking during operations.
sky fire laser retrofit YAG laser to fiber laser_retrofit parts list_laser cutting head Laser Cutting Head Auto-focus laser cutting head designed for metal cutting with 1000w and 1500w fiber optic laser sources.
sky fire laser retrofit YAG laser to fiber laser_retrofit parts list_Z-axis sliding table Z-axis sliding table Assists in up and down movements during operations.
sky fire laser retrofit YAG laser to fiber laser_retrofit parts list_Gas System Gas System Necessary for certain laser cutting operations that require gas assistance.
sky fire laser retrofit YAG laser to fiber laser_retrofit parts list_Other Parts Other Parts Miscellaneous parts that might be required based on specific operational needs.

 

Why Opt for Retrofitting?

Retrofitting the old YAG system, while preserving its original dynamic performance, offers a solution to the problems associated with the aging and maintenance of YAG lasers.

Advantages:

  • Improved cutting speed (3 to 4 times faster)
  • Significant reduction in power consumption and consumable costs
  • Easy and low-cost maintenance

Further reading:

  1. retrofit a bystronic co2 laser into a fiber laser
  2. retrofit a amada co2 laser into a fiber laser
  3. retrofit HOMAG edge bander with laser technology
  4. fiber laser source repair service