Laser cutting using NIR radiation

O. Haupt, C. Büsching, M. Haase, H2B Photonics GmbH

The use of laser sources in the field of glass cutting is already state of the art in numerous industrial fields of application. Laser radiation has process based advantages in comparison to conventional production technologies: non-contact, wear-free treatment of sensitive glass products decreases the number of rejects and quality costs, increases the product quality and the productivity of the glass separation process. Precise energy use and good reproducibility open up new economical manufacturing processes. For years, laser beam processing has already been used successfully in the glass industry. Whether for separating blowing caps in the mass production of drinking glasses, or for separating flat glasses in the display glass production, laser processing of glass has established itself successfully in many industrial fields, due to process-based advantages. This publication will specify a modern near-infrared (NIR) laser beam cutting process: the MLBA (Multiple Laser Beam Absorption) process. The author explains the principle of MLBA glass cutting using NIR laser radiation in comparison to mechanical processing and the separation with CO2 laser radiation.

Current innovations of the MLBA technology enhance the high potential of laser glass cutting using NIR radiation. The wide range of applications, the high quality level and the high productivity of the MLBA process have already convinced the glass industry – some successful projects have been realized for displays and in the solar market.

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The Authors

Mr. Michael Haase H2B Photonics Study: Mechanical engineering in Hamburg Graduation: Diploma Mechanical Engineer Experiences in industry and research and development: H2B Photonics GmbH: since July 2005 General Manager H2B P... Read more