German university installs high-power multiwave laser processing system

The first high-power multiwave laser processing system from Universal Laser Systems (Vienna, Austria) has been installed in the newly opened applied optics laboratory facilities at the Mittelhessen University of Applied Sciences (Friedberg, Germany). Equipped with a 250W CO₂ laser and a 50W fiber laser, the XLS10MWH high-power laser processing system will greatly expand the testing and research capabilities for the university's faculty and students in the area of hybrid technology.

The multiwave hybrid laser system combines beams from multiple lasers into a single, hybrid laser beam. For example, 1.06, 9.3, and 10.6µm laser beams can be combined in any proportion to create a number of desired effects on various materials. Independent control of each laser is also possible.

"With this system, we see excellent possibilities for expanding our expertise in the processing and testing of complex composite materials, and look forward to sharing and exchanging these findings with relevant companies in the surrounding area," says Klaus Behler, head of the academic group for Applied Laser Technology at the university, which is located in one of the most technologically advanced regions in Germany and profits from its interactions with local industrial players. "In this way, our cooperation with partners in industry will be strengthened for the good of everyone, and our students will be able to gain new insights into material processing that are relevant in industrial applications."

"We are very much looking forward to testing the extensive capabilities of this technology," says Daniel Thölken, who manages the many high-tech devices in the newly equipped laboratory facility. "Whether using the high-power 250W laser alone or in conjunction with the fiber laser, we will be able to undertake sophisticated tests on myriad different materials. In this process, we are especially hopeful that we will be able to discover new applications for the multiwave hybrid technology."

For more information, please visit www.ulsinc.com and www.thm.de.