With the continuous development of science and technology and the ongoing advancement of industrial technology, laser engraving technology plays an increasingly important role in the industrial and creative fields.
In the modern manufacturing industry, the galvanometer laser engraving machine has become a widely used tool, which is favored for its excellent precision and high efficiency.
In this article, we will empower you with a more comprehensive understanding of the following aspects.
What is a Galvanometer Laser Engraver?
A Galvanometer Laser Engraver refers to a laser engraving system that utilizes galvanometer scanners, also known as Galvo scanners or galvanometer mirrors, for precise and rapid laser beam positioning. It combines the principles of laser technology and galvanometer scanning to achieve high-precision engraving, marking, or cutting on various materials.
For an in-depth understanding, let’s take a look at the definitions of the terms: “Galvanometer” and “Galvanometer Laser”.
Galvanometer Overview
A galvanometer is an electromechanical instrument that is used to detect and measure small amounts of current. On account of this characteristic, it is also commonly referred to as an ammeter.
As regards galvanometers, their history can be traced back to about 1820, when it was first noted by Hans Christian Ørsted, a Danish physicist, that a magnetic compass needle deflects near a wire with an electric current.
In simple terms, Galvanometer is a kind of scanning galvanometer that can be used in the laser industry, and its professional term is called “Galvo Scanning System“.
Galvanometer Laser Overview
A Galvanometer laser is often referred to as a Galvo Laser, where the term “Galvo” is derived from “Galvanometer”. It is a type of laser system that uses galvanometer scanners to control the movement and direction of the laser beam.
The Operating Principle
Galvo lasers use galvanometer scanners to direct the laser beam quickly and precisely across the material. Instead of moving the entire laser head, small mirrors (galvanometers) rapidly adjust the direction of the laser beam.
A galvanometer scanner is a highly dynamic electro-optical component that uses a rotatable low-inertia mirror to position a laser beam with high precision and repeatability. The name galvanometer is derived from the motor type.
The galvanometer scanning marking head is mainly composed of XY scanning mirror, field mirror, galvanometer, and computer-controlled marking software. Choose the appropriate optical components according to the different wavelengths of the laser.
The operating principle is the laser beam is incident to the two mirrors (scanning mirror), and a computer controls the reflection angle of the reflectors. The two mirrors can scan along the X and Y axes respectively, to achieve the deflection of the laser beam, so that the laser focus with a certain power density moves on the marking material as required, thus leaving a permanent mark on the material’s surface.
Differences Between Galvanometer Laser Machine and Conventional Laser Machine
Galvanometer Laser Machine and Conventional XY Axis Laser Machine are two different types of laser engraving/cutting systems.
Here are some key differences between them:
Principle of Operation:
Galvo Laser Machine: Galvo laser machines use galvanometer scanners (Galvo scanners) to rapidly move mirrors and deflect the laser beam in different directions. The galvanometer scanners offer high-speed and precise positioning of the laser beam.
Conventional Laser Machine: Conventional XY-axis laser machines utilize traditional mechanical systems with two perpendicular axes (X and Y) to move the laser head and workpiece. The laser beam is directed by moving the entire laser head assembly along the X and Y axes.
Speed and Acceleration:
Galvo Laser Machine: Galvo scanners can achieve extremely high-speed scanning, making them suitable for rapid engraving and marking applications. They can quickly change the direction of the laser beam, resulting in faster processing times.
Conventional Laser Machine: Conventional XY axis systems have limitations in terms of speed and acceleration due to the mechanical movements involved. They are relatively slower compared to Galvo Laser Machines.
Working Area:
Galvo Laser Machine: Galvo scanners typically have a smaller working area due to the limited range of motion of the mirrors. They are well-suited for applications that require precision engraving on smaller workpieces.
Conventional Laser Machine: Conventional XY axis systems offer a larger working area as they can move the entire laser head assembly along the X and Y axes. This makes them suitable for engraving/cutting larger workpieces or working in a larger production area.
In summary, Galvo Laser Machines are known for their high speed, precision, and ability to perform intricate engraving. They are ideal for applications that require fast marking. On the other hand, Conventional XY Axis Laser Machines offer a larger working area. They are suitable for larger workpieces and applications. The choice between the two depends on the specific requirements of the application to cater to the different processing demands.
Conclusion
With their exceptional accuracy, efficiency, and multi-material applicability, galvanometer laser engraving machines have emerged as indispensable tools in modern manufacturing and creative design. As technology keeps evolving, the galvanometer laser machine will continue to push the manufacturing and creative industries forward, unveiling a multitude of surprises and unlocking endless possibilities.
ATOMSTACK M4 Pro Dual Laser Marking Machine
