A beam switch directs the laser beam in one direction or the other. Beam switches are, therefore, useful if the same laser has to be used on two different occasions at two different work stations – but at the same power!
This so-called time sharing is achieved by deflecting the laser beam through a flexibly mounted mirror. This deflection unit is mounted on precise linear tracks and ensures an exact and reproducible adjustment. In automated units, the switching is carried out through pneumatic control, with approximately 250 ms response time. In less complex units, the switching can also be carried out manually.
Depending on the mirror used, the beam switches are well suited for all laser classes from UV to IR. In higher power lasers, for example, in CO2 lasers starting at 1kW, it makes sense to use beam switches with a water cooling system.
Beam switches are available with the following apertures: 19 mm, 25 mm, 38 mm, and 50 mm. The mirrors used should have a diameter of 1” to 75 mm.
