Comparison Between Fiber Laser and YAG Laser

In the development of modern laser technology, fiber lasers and YAG lasers are the two most common types. They have several differences, so a thorough comparison and evaluation is required when choosing.

1.Fiber laser

1.1 Principle

Fiber lasers are lasers that use optical fibers as amplification media. Fiber lasers usually consist of a pump light source, a fiber amplifier and an output mirror. The pump light source generates a high-energy beam, which enters the fiber amplifier through the coupler. Light is amplified as it propagates in the optical fiber, and finally passes through the output mirror to form a laser output.

1.2 Features

Small size:

Fiber lasers use optical fibers as the amplification medium. Compared with traditional solid-state lasers, they are smaller and suitable for applications with limited space.

Power stability:

Fiber lasers have good power stability. The output laser energy is not easily affected by the outside world and is suitable for laser processing and measurement applications that need high precision.

Simple maintenance:

The fiber laser has a simple structure and low maintenance difficulty. long lasting. Suitable for industrial production environments that need a long-term stable operation.

Higher cost:

Fiber lasers are more expensive to manufacture and maintain. Buy and maintenance need a certain amount of financial investment.

1.3 Application

Laser cutting and welding:

Fiber lasers are widely used in cutting and welding metal materials. Such as automobile manufacturing, aerospace, and other fields. It has high energy density and precise control capabilities, which can achieve high efficiency and high-quality cutting and welding.

Laser Marking:

Fiber lasers can achieve high-precision laser marking. Suitable for electronic products, medical equipment, and other industries. Its laser beam has good beam quality and stability and can achieve fine patterns and text marks.

Optical communication:

Used in optical communication systems to achieve high-speed data transmission and long-distance communication. It can meet the signal quality and stability requirements of optical communication systems.

2.YAG laser

2.1 Principle

YAG laser uses Nd: YAG crystal as an activator to produce 1064 nm laser light. The principle is to produce laser output through radiative transitions through spectral lines within the laser medium.

2.2 Features

High power:

YAG laser has high output power. Suitable for laser processing applications requiring high energy, such as cutting and welding of thick plate materials.

Adjustable pulse width:

The pulse width of the YAG laser is adjustable. It is suitable for different processing needs and can achieve fine processing and control of materials.

Strong adaptability:

YAG laser has strong adaptability to different materials. The application range can be used to process metals, plastics, ceramics, and other materials, which is very wide.

Complex maintenance:

YAG laser has a complex structure and high maintenance costs. Maintenance and servicing by professional technicians may be required.

2.3 Application

Metal cutting and welding:

YAG laser is suitable for cutting and welding of thicker metal materials, such as steel, aluminum alloy, etc. Due to its high energy output and large pulse energy, it can achieve fast cutting and deep welding of thick plate materials.

Medical Treatment:

YAG lasers are used in laser treatments and surgeries. Such as skin lesions, cataract surgery, etc. Its laser output has high penetration and accuracy. Precise cutting and treatment of tissue can be achieved.

Scientific research:

YAG lasers are also widely used in the field of scientific research. Such as optical experiments and lidar. Its stable laser output and adjustable pulse width can meet the precise control requirements of laser sources for scientific research.

To sum up, there are obvious differences between fiber lasers and YAG lasers. When choosing, a comprehensive evaluation needs to be carried out based on the actual situation. It is believed that as laser technology continues to advance, they will show strong potential and value in more fields.