31 Jul Material testing without U.S. detour
MKS has opened its European Laser Applications Lab in Darmstadt, Germany. The facility enables machine builders and system integrators to test original material samples using Spectra-Physics short-pulse and ultrafast lasers. According to the company, the new lab is intended to shorten development times and accelerate the optimization of laser processes for new applications.
Laser processes are evaluated using original material samples at the new MKS European Laser Applications Lab in Darmstadt. Photo: MKS
Previously, MKS carried out such material tests exclusively in the United States. With the new laboratory, European customers can now evaluate their original material samples locally. This is expected to benefit projects in which samples cannot be shipped for confidentiality reasons or where customers need to attend testing in person.
The laboratory is equipped with Spectra-Physics short-pulse and ultrafast lasers covering both the ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) spectral ranges in various power classes. It also features Ophir laser measurement systems as well as Newport optical tables, opto-mechanical components and motion systems.
According to MKS, the new facility allows suitable laser sources and process parameters to be identified at an early stage of product development. This is expected to reduce development risks and speed up the selection of laser sources and manufacturing equipment.
Typical applications include glass cutting, micro-drilling for semiconductor manufacturing, as well as material structuring and laser ablation in electronics production.
To analyze machining results, the laboratory is equipped with a 3D laser scanning microscope combining confocal laser microscopy, focus variation and white-light interferometry. A digital microscope is also available for detailed optical inspection.
Source and photo: www.mks.com