Variable Beam Expanders Ease Laser Materials Processing

•    2× to 10× expansion
•    355, 532 or 1064 nm
•    transmission ≥96%

!%Jenoptik Laser, Optik, Systeme GmbH%! has unveiled its variable beam expanders, adapted to meet the need for precision in laser materials processing.

Very small spot diameters are needed for the laser radiation employed in processes requiring high energy density. The greater the size of an expanded beam, the smaller the spots that can be delivered by a subsequent f-Theta lens, and the smaller the structures that will be generated.

Variable continuous coverage of the range from 2× up to 10× expansion capability is a feature of this product series. A focusing ring allows deliberate changes in the divergence of laser radiation, thus matching the tolerances on focal length relationships throughout the entire system.

Similarly, the image plane position after the scanning unit can be changed. Each beam expander is designed to achieve diffraction-limited image quality and has a specific antireflection coating for operation at 355, 532 or 1064 nm, enabling transmission values ≥96%. An expansion and focusing scale is engraved directly on each expander.

Based on an optimized engineering concept, the beam expanders are robust and compact, and their lens components are made of laser-resistant materials (532/1064 nm) or fused silica (355 nm) and will experience no rotational shift in the case of a change in setup, yielding improved pointing stability. All models have a mounting diameter of 37.6 mm and can be used with the company’s f-Theta lenses as integral parts of a beam-delivery system.