Adapting test methods for optics to high-power laser components
In the cw-LIDT research project, the LZH is working together with Laseroptik and Raylase to adapt testing methods for optics to modern high-power laser components.
A limiting factor in developing new laser systems is the optical resilience of the components with which the laser radiation is generated and guided. These are necessary to achieve ever higher optical outputs. At the same time, there is a growing demand for low-weight optical components, for example, for use in galvanometer scanners in material processing.
The scientists at the LZH are therefore developing measurement routines in the project to test and consequently guarantee the performance compatibility of such optics. In this context, the previous findings of the established optics tests cannot be transferred without further ado to modern optics with reduced geometry and therefore lower weight. For example, according to ISO standard 21254, the optics is irradiated at hundred positions. This is not possible with smaller surface areas, since the measuring points influence each other, for example through thermal conduction or thermal stresses.
With the new measurement routine, the photonic materials group of the LZH investigates different optics and uses the results to create models to make optics even more robust in the future. In doing so, they take into account different materials, geometries, and different manufacturing processes. Laseroptik develops optics coatings of the highest destructive strength adapted to special geometries. These components are then inserted into a deflection unit manufactured by Raylase and tested by the LZH close to the application, i.e. in the finished module and with parameters similar to the later application. The aim is to develop more stable scanner modules.
In the project “Standardized test method for high-performance optics in continuous wave operation” (cw-LIDT), the LZH is working together with Laseroptik, Garbsen, and Raylase, Wessling. The project is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action. (Source: LZH)
Company
RAYLASE GmbHArgelsrieder Feld 2+4
82234 Wessling
Germany
most read
ZVEI Calls for Swift Protection of Critical Power Infrastructure
The association has issued a statement in response to the recent attempted attacks on substations in Brandenburg and North Rhine-Westphalia and warns of the consequences for Germany's energy security.
Vision 2026 Breaks Exhibitor Record
About 500 exhibiting companies—about two-thirds of which are from abroad and about 30 percent of which are first-time exhibitors—are showcasing their products at the trade show.
Siemens Consolidates Its Automation Business into a New Unit Called Automation
Rainer Brehm, who previously served as COO of the automation business and CTO of Digital Industries, was appointed president of the new unit.
IMTS 2026: America's Manufacturing Sector Focuses on Growth and Technology
The largest manufacturing trade show in the Western Hemisphere is bringing together 1,788 exhibitors this year, including about 400 companies participating for the first time.
Forecast: Significant Growth in Industrial Robotics by 2030; Cobots Are Growing the Fastest
According to a recent analysis by Interact Analysis, global sales of industrial robots are expected to rise from about 550,000 units in 2025 to just over 760,000 units in 2030.