Laser beam splitters and combiners

Laser Research Optics, Providence, RI, has released a new line of polarizing beam splitters and beam combiners for CO₂ lasers, starting at 100 W, for use in laser engraving and marking, and scribing applications.

The beam splitters reflect a percentage of the beam -- typically 50%, or polarization insensitive beam (PIB) covering all polarizations. Beam combiners combine two different wavelengths (10.6 μm and 0.633 μm [HeNe]), providing a visual light beam to permit alignment and focus.

The laser beam splitters and beam combiners are made from ZnSe with various coatings to achieve differenet polarization states. The beam splitters permit up to 50% transmission with ±3% reflectance; the beam combiners allow 98.7% light transmission.

The splitters and combiners are offered in 3/4-in. to 3-in. O.D. sizes, and are priced according to type, size, and quantity.