The JPT Mopa M7 refers to a specific series of pulsed fiber laser sources manufactured by JPT Opto-electronics Co., Ltd. (often simply referred to as JPT Laser). It's a popular choice for various laser processing applications, particularly laser marking and engraving.
Here's a breakdown of what makes the JPT Mopa M7 notable:
1. MOPA Technology:
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Master Oscillator Power Amplifier (MOPA): This is the core technology. Unlike traditional Q-switched fiber lasers which have a fixed pulse width, MOPA lasers allow for independent control over pulse width and pulse repetition frequency. This flexibility is a key advantage of the M7 series.
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Benefits of MOPA:
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Adjustable Pulse Width (typically 2-500 ns): This broad range allows for finer control over the laser-material interaction. Shorter pulses can minimize heat input, leading to cleaner, more precise marks and less thermal impact on sensitive materials. Longer pulses can deliver more energy per pulse for deeper engraving or faster material removal.
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Adjustable Frequency (typically 1-4000 kHz): This allows for optimization of processing speed and quality for different materials and desired effects.
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Consistent Peak Power: The MOPA structure helps maintain high and stable peak power output even when adjusting pulse parameters.
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2. Key Characteristics & Features:
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Fiber Laser: It's a fiber laser, meaning the laser beam is generated and amplified within an optical fiber. This contributes to high beam quality, efficiency, and reliability.
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Wavelength: The M7 series typically operates at a central emission wavelength of 1064 nm (near-infrared), which is highly absorbed by most metals and many plastics.
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Power Range: JPT Mopa M7 lasers are available in a range of average output powers, commonly from 20W to 200W (and potentially higher for specialized applications like cleaning). Higher power generally translates to faster processing speeds or deeper penetration.
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Air-Cooled: Many models, especially in the lower to medium power ranges, are air-cooled, making them more compact and easier to integrate.
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High Electro-Optical Conversion Efficiency: This means more of the input electrical power is converted into useful laser light, leading to lower energy consumption.
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Maintenance-Free: Due to their all-fiber design, these lasers generally require no consumables or routine maintenance.
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Anti-Reflection Protection: Designed to handle reflections from highly reflective materials without damaging the laser source.
3. Common Applications: The versatility of the MOPA technology makes the JPT M7 suitable for a wide array of applications, particularly in industrial manufacturing:
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Color Marking on Stainless Steel: This is one of the most well-known advantages of MOPA lasers. By precisely controlling pulse parameters, different oxide layers can be created on the surface, producing a spectrum of colors.
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Black Marking on Anodized Aluminum: Achieving a deep, consistent black mark on anodized aluminum, which is challenging for Q-switched lasers, is easily done with the M7.
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Precision Marking/Engraving: Ideal for fine details, small characters, and intricate designs on various metals (gold, silver, copper, brass, titanium, steel, etc.) and some non-metals (plastics, ceramics, leather).
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Deep Engraving: The ability to deliver higher pulse energy allows for deeper material removal.
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Thin Metal Cutting: Can be used for cutting very thin metal sheets.
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Surface Treatment: Used for various surface modifications, including cleaning, peeling coatings, and texturing.
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Scribing and Drilling: Precision drilling of small holes.
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Welding (Precision): While specialized welding lasers exist, lower power M7s can be used for very fine, precise welding applications.
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Fly Marking: High repetition rates and control enable high-speed marking on moving production lines.
In summary, the JPT Mopa M7 is a highly versatile and precise pulsed fiber laser source that offers superior control over laser parameters compared to traditional Q-switched lasers. This makes it a preferred choice for applications requiring fine control over material interaction, special marking effects (like color marking), and high-quality results.