HighLight D-Series

The HighLight D-Series, a new range of diode laser systems from Coherent Inc. delivers both high power and an increased range of "smart" output beam shapes. In particular, the HighLight 8000D, with output power of 8 kW, is the most powerful, industrial, direct diode laser system currently available with free space beam delivery. Free space beam delivery preserves the inherent brightness of the diode laser source and enables the use of an optical system with a large (275mm) working distance. Together, these factors translate directly into enhanced laser capabilities in industrial processing applications. Specifically in cladding, it yields a higher material deposition rate (up to 18 pounds/hour), allowing the laser to cover large areas in a short amount of time. Production speed is increased to new benchmark levels in both cladding and heat treating due to the HighLight D-Series higher power and longer line beams allowing processing of larger areas in a single pass.

The HighLight D-Series includes products with output powers of 2.8 kW, 4 kW, 6 kW and 8 kW (all at 975 nm), thus addressing the varying requirements of the worldwide industrial market. The design of the compact laser head enables a wide range of output beam size options that won't restrict application deployment. For example, the 6 kW and 8 kW models are each offered with line beam dimensions of 1mm width and either 6mm, 12mm or 24mm length. Lower power systems have additional beam lengths of 3mm, 4mm, or 5mm. Furthermore, an optional beam shaping accessory can expand the 1mm beam width dimension to 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, 6mm, 8mm or 12mm.

Various industrial options facilitate ease-of-use of the HighLight D-Series. These include an air knife, which protects the laser from back-splattered material, heat and returned laser light, thus extending system lifetime. A pyrometer for monitoring work surface temperature enables closed-loop control of laser power during heat treatment and cladding. Features to enhance productivity include a laser system control unit with a simple graphical interface, and remote diagnostics that allow system operation to be analyzed by Coherent service personnel over the internet.