Tube Lasers Cutting Systems Ltd
The wavelength of fiber lasers is 1.06 microns. This is 10% less than the wavelength of a CO2 laser beam. The fiber laser emits a beam with a shorter wavelength that is more easily absorbed and reflected by reflective materials than a CO2 laser. Fiber laser cutting machines are able to cut brass, copper and other reflective materials. Be aware that the CO2 laser beam can damage not only the machine's lens but also the entire beam path. This risk is eliminated by using a fiber-optic cables for the beam path.
The CO2 resonance is larger and requires more power as electricity is used to heat a mixture of gases to produce the laser beam. Mirrors increase the intensity of the light and prepare it to leave the resonator. After leaving the resonator the beam must travel through a path made up of several cooled lenses until it reaches its destination. This travel results in a loss in power and quality for the laser beam.