Ultrafast laser platform providing dynamic peak power and energy deposition control: from laser source to industrial applications

Abstract

Ultrashort-pulse micromachining has found a rising number of applications in numerous industrial and scientific fields. Modern ultrafast lasers like the TruMicro series enable a high degree of pulse parameter flexibility. Yet, this flexibility also brings challenges for optimization due to complexity with respect to endless parameter combinations. Unique laser features such as a fast tunable pulse duration, MHz- and GHz-bursts offer the possibility to address several machining challenges depending on the application. Even for a single application, useful pulse parameters are generally related to the particular process phase. For example, high ablation rates are commonly in contrast to highest surface qualities. In this contribution we focus on applications that benefit from multi-step processes with advanced successive parameter sequences, enabled by fast and controlled intra-process pulse parameter switching. As a result, multiple samples are demonstrated where highest processing speeds are enabled in combination with superior qualities and various surface finishes. Besides an optimized temporal energy deposition for a variety of applications, benefits of ultrafast processing with shorter wavelength, position synchronized output and an integrated hollow-core fiber delivery are demonstrated.