Chemical oxygen iodine laser of extremely high efficiency

Abstract

We have developed a highly efficient chemical oxygen iodine laser with industrial uses in mind. A maximum overall efficiency of 40% has been achieved at a power level of 200 W. This efficiency makes the running cost of the iodine laser comparable to that of typical yttrium-aluminum-garnet lasers. The key issues for achieving high efficiency are discussed. Using the present system, we were successful in drilling a 1-mm-thick steel plate at a power level of 60 W, which we believe is the first demonstration of material processing by a chemical oxygen iodine laser.