Laser metal cleaning technology has become the most effective way today to rid the material of rust, corrosion, paint, oil films and other coatings.
Compared to traditional cleaning methods, laser treatment of metal is more expensive. The cost of a full-fledged device is usually in the range of several tens of thousands of dollars. But the advantages and results that the buyer receives for this money can never be achieved either by sandblasting, chemical or mechanical action.
In this article we will tell in detail about the principle of operation of laser metal cleaning technology, its advantages and possibilities of application in industry and business.
The principle of operation of equipment for laser metal cleaning
A laser for cleaning metal from rust directionally acts on the treated surface with short laser pulses. The very principle of operation of the equipment is based on the fact that pure metal reflects laser radiation. And if the plaque formed on the surface is exposed, then in this case the focused beam is absorbed by it, and not reflected. This is due to the complex chemical composition of the coating. In the process of exposure to the beam, the plaque heats up, peels off, melts and evaporates. This is how corrosion cleaning takes place.
At the same time, we note separately that melting and damage to the metal itself does not occur, since, as we mentioned earlier, the laser beam is reflected from a clean surface, and does not affect it with high temperature.
Where can I use laser cleaning of metal from rust now?
Since the equipment can have different configuration and power, the range of its application is quite wide.
Laser metal cleaning will find its application in:
- electronics
- instrumentation
- machine tool construction
- mechanical engineering
- aircraft industry
- the antique business
- automotive maintenance and body repair (CTO)
It is especially worth thinking about switching to this cleaning method for enterprises that need to prevent mechanical damage to the metal surface.
What types of coatings are removed by laser metal cleaning equipment?
- Corrosion
- rust
- oil films
- paint and varnish coatings
- scale
- nagar
- products of oil deposits
- electroplating coatings
- adhesive coatings
- organic deposits
Separately, we note that the laser becomes almost the only way to get rid of plaque in hard-to-reach places, even if we are talking about corrugated and embossed surfaces, corners and grooves.
6 reasons why laser metal cleaning is better than Other Methods
Speed. Thanks to the high focusing of the beam, you will get the desired result in just a few laser passes.
Effectiveness. With a minimum of effort and time spent, you will get an ideal product without traces of corrosion, suitable for further use.
Accuracy. You can selectively work only with a certain area by setting the desired pulse power. At the same time, even on grooves and grooved surfaces, laser cleaning of metal will be effective and efficient.
Quality. The laser completely removes all traces of dirt, leaving behind a smooth metal surface without damage.
Safety. Compared with mechanical and chemical methods of exposure, this method is non—traumatic — there is no human contact with the treated surface, and environmentally friendly – there is no release of toxic fumes. There is also no risk of damage to the metal from which you are removing rust or paint.
Mobility and compactness. Many laser cleaners are implemented in the form of backpacks that can be easily carried on the back and processed products located in different parts of the production room. And it is also easy to take such equipment with you if field work is planned.