The influence of tube-plate electrodes on the laser mode of a fast-transvere- flow C02 laser
The distribution of the electric field of a tube-plate transversal flow discharge C02 laser is numerically solved. It is helpful to understand the formation and improvement of the laser mode.
An analytical approach to the design of electrodes in high-power, fast-transverse-flow CO2 lasers
Abstract Usually, the design of the electrodes of fast-transverse-flow CO 2 lasers relies more on experimental data than on theoretical analysis. Traditional systems sustain a stable, high-power discharge but the current distribution generates a peaked, non-uniform small-signal-gain pattern. We present a theoretical model suitable for the design of electrodes that achieves a quasi uniform gain distribution. The analysis, based on a two-temperature model and the gas-transport equations, computes the electron density that supports a flat gain pattern. Combining the desired electron density with the electron-balance equations, the model determines the required electric field. The results were used to design a new set of electrodes for a home-made fast transverse flow CO 2 laser. A stable, large volume discharge ( 4 × 8 × 90 cm 3 ) with very good uniformity was obtained. The resulting gain distribution was registered in a bi-dimensional map. The peak gain rose from 1.2 m - 1 , attained with the old electrode set, to 1.6 m - 1 with the new one and the gain showed a homogeneous profile.
Industrial lasers developed at the Scientific-Research Center for Industrial Lasers of the USSR Academy of Sciences
A description is given of several models of industrial kilowatt CO2 lasers developed at the Scientific-Research Center. These lasers differ from their prototypes because they meet the requirements for commercial production and industrial use, particularly in respect of the parameters describing the quality of laser radiation beams, stability, and ease of control by microprocessor-based automatic control systems.