Whether your aircraft’s bulkhead has corroded from water damage or dangerous paint is starting to chip, you need a safe and efficient cleaning method. Oil, rust, mold-releasing agents, paint, and other impurities may be precisely removed using laser ablation, but which laser cleaner suits your needs? Is it essential to know specifics before you buy one?
What Is a Laser Cleaning Machine?
As a subset of a laser ablation machine, a laser cleaning machine employs CW (continuous wave) or pulsed laser irradiation and heating. It induces evaporation or sublimation of the object’s surface material to eliminate it.
Types of Laser Cleaning Techniques
- First is the laser dry cleaning process, which eliminates contaminants using direct laser light.s
- The laser and liquid film technique involves coating the substrate with a liquid film before decontaminating it with laser light.
- In the inert gas and laser technique, the substrate is exposed to laser radiation, while a gas that is not a laser is blasted over the surface. To prevent re-contamination and surface oxidation, the gas will be blown off the surface as dirt is peeled off.
- Utilizing non-corrosive chemicals means cleaning them after using the laser to dislodge the dirt.
In laser cleaning solutions, the first three approaches are utilized most often. Only when cleaning cultural artifacts made of stone is the fourth technique used. Always prioritize laser safety while treating surfaces, regardless of the approach utilized.
How Do You Choose The Right Handheld Laser Cleaning Machine?
Currently, cleansing machines are available, featuring varying levels of laser power. Laser power selection is determined by the quantity of corrosion or debris visible on the material’s surface. It also depends on the type of material that needs to be cleaned.
Consider cost, portability, and machine dimensions when deciding which laser cleaning machine is appropriate for your business. Consider a few factors when selecting laser rust removal equipment:
- Power of Laser
Laser cleaners are divided into three intensity categories. However, specific details may differ between machines. The power classification will give you a broad understanding of the machine fulfilling your needs. As power increases, the rate and quantity of rust removal speed up.
- Medium Power Option
Medium-power laser cleaners have a wattage between 200 and 300 watts. These devices are optimal for corrosion and grime removal from the materials at moderate levels. However, it is crucial to realize that the increased capacity of the laser results in a corresponding increase in heat production.
Therefore, it is necessary to incorporate a proficient cooling mechanism into the laser. Verifying with the retailer or manufacturer whether a chilling mechanism is implemented during the cleaning process is imperative. Your product will be impacted if the cooling mechanism fails to function correctly.
- Low-Power Cleaner
20W to 100W laser power is utilized by the low-power laser cleaners. This power source is well-suited for removing mild corrosion, where pace is not critical. Moreover, it works if your setup isn’t extensive and you aren’t required to manage a lot of batches.
Another perk of the low-power laser cleaning is how much less expensive the unit is. Thus, if you desire to maintain a minimal budget, this computer is what you need.
- High-Powered Laser Cleaner
Heavy-duty metals can only be cleaned with high-powered laser purifiers. These devices are classified as 350W, 500W, 1000W, and, in specific instances, 2000W.
The exorbitant cost of these machines can be attributed to the boost in power. Hence, the selection of these machines is restricted to extensive production/repair facilities. It handles heavy-duty metals.
- Cabinet System
The design of the cabinet system or this particular machine is intended to optimize the safety of the workers who operate the machine. The material to be cleaned is contained within enclosures on these devices, after which the laser can be used to clean the unit.
- Handheld
Numerous laser cleaning devices are portable in design. Small enough to accommodate in a suitcase, these portable devices weigh no more than a few kilograms (approximately 15 kilograms). This equipment category is well-suited for cleansing components. It is situated at a distance from the manufacturing or repair line.
Furthermore, compact machines are well-suited for cleaning equipment in crevices and crannies beyond the reach of a conventional approach. Before purchasing, verifying the compatibility of the machine you intend to buy with your current conveyor system is crucial. Specific machines lack the capability for integration, which can result in post-purchase complications.
- Mobility
Another aspect that requires review is the machine’s mobility. Rust laser purifiers are primarily classified into three configuration categories.
- Machine Fix
Conveyor belt-style maintenance and repair functions are well-suited for machine-fixed systems. The products are in motion along a conveyor belt while a stationary machine cleans a designated machine area.
The fixed system provides exceptional stability while cleaning components. Thus, it generates precise outcomes and operates with efficacy.
