Characterization of emissions during laser processing and their removal by an integrated exhaust system

Abstract

Workplace safety in laser materials processing has found common interest, hence emissions are serious hazards. The composition of materials as well as the type of treatment already indicate possible hazardous potential.The following paper will give: ■ Results on the characterization of emissions during the laser processing of metals and ceramics (mainly by ablation) regarding the amount, size, shape, and topography of the emitted particles. ■ Evaluation of the hazardous potential on the base of European threshold limit values. ■ Investigations of propagation of emissions were done by laser light sheet techniques for qualitative analysis as well Laser Doppler anemometry for quantitative information during laser treatment by short pulsed lasers (e.g. Excimer laser or copper vapour laser). ■ Demonstration of a concept for an integrated exhaust system using a crossjet nozzle. ■ Procedure for classification of a safe laser treatment. Workplace safety in laser materials processing has found common interest, hence emissions are serious hazards. The composition of materials as well as the type of treatment already indicate possible hazardous potential.The following paper will give: ■ Results on the characterization of emissions during the laser processing of metals and ceramics (mainly by ablation) regarding the amount, size, shape, and topography of the emitted particles. ■ Evaluation of the hazardous potential on the base of European threshold limit values. ■ Investigations of propagation of emissions were done by laser light sheet techniques for qualitative analysis as well Laser Doppler anemometry for quantitative information during laser treatment by short pulsed lasers (e.g. Excimer laser or copper vapour laser). ■ Demonstration of a concept for an integrated exhaust system using a crossjet nozzle. ■ Procedure for classification of a safe laser treatment.