Laser drilling with a "mask"?
Laser drilling with a "mask"?
(OP)
I'm trying to understand laser drilling with a mask. I have had some drilling done with the lasers direct focal point changing rapidly to make holes. I send a 2D CAD with 100 holes each at 20um diameter and the part returns. It appears fairly standard stuff.
Now I'm at the point that I need smaller holes <18um and lots of them >1000. They also need to be more smooth and regular because my part is intended for use in a printer. So I think I need a higher power laser and some kind of mask or focusing lens. At this point the concepts and procedure become a bit hazy. Can someone explain? And how does the cost compare?
Thanks,
Ant.
Now I'm at the point that I need smaller holes <18um and lots of them >1000. They also need to be more smooth and regular because my part is intended for use in a printer. So I think I need a higher power laser and some kind of mask or focusing lens. At this point the concepts and procedure become a bit hazy. Can someone explain? And how does the cost compare?
Thanks,
Ant.
RE: Laser drilling with a "mask"?
Neat application but unfortunately, out of my scope of expertise. I've contributed to this form for a little while now. Most of the topics are about heavy sheet metal stuff.
Your not being ignored just the right person hasn't read you post yet.
RE: Laser drilling with a "mask"?
RE: Laser drilling with a "mask"?
Dan - Owner

http://www.Hi-TecDesigns.com
RE: Laser drilling with a "mask"?
I think I'm getting a better idea of the process now. I'm imagining:
1) A CO2 laser has its beam widened by a lens
2) This beam then goes selectively through a disposable mask
3) The mask consists of 10um holes drilled in it by a YAG laser.
Does that sound sensible?
And what would be mask be made of? I can think the CO2 laser would vaporise more or less anything it came across.
Regards,
Ant.
RE: Laser drilling with a "mask"?
Note the copper mask material here: http://www.lightmachinery.com/masks.html is itself chemically etched.
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RE: Laser drilling with a "mask"?
Dan - Owner

http://www.Hi-TecDesigns.com
RE: Laser drilling with a "mask"?
It is for an atomiser/printer, so the holes need to be 10 microns diameter or thereabouts. The material is stainless that is 0.2mm thick, material and thickness can't change. A wet etch couldn't produce holes small enough, they typically have a diameter the same as the thickness, perhaps there is a more accurate way of etching, I'm not sure? I don't mind the diameter changing top to bottom face. I'm looking at the link, thanks, it is interesting to see what can be done.
Regards,
Ant.
RE: Laser drilling with a "mask"?
Dan - Owner

http://www.Hi-TecDesigns.com