In the heart of Hanoi, Vietnam, researchers at the High Power Fiber Laser Laboratory have achieved a breakthrough that could revolutionize long-range material processing and combat applications. Led by Tuan Banh Quoc, the team has developed a high-power quasi-single-mode fiber laser system capable of drilling holes in a 1 mm thick stainless-steel plate from a staggering distance of 500 meters.
The system, detailed in a recent study published in ‘Materials Research Express’ (which translates to ‘Expressions of Materials Research’), boasts an impressive output of approximately 1.5 kW continuous-wave and an M² factor less than 1.15, indicating a beam quality close to the diffraction limit. This high-quality beam is achieved using an all-fiber structure with a 915 nm pump laser diode and a Yb³⁺-doped fiber with a 20 μm core diameter, emitting a ∼1064 nm laser with an Optical-to-Optical (O-O) conversion efficiency of around 70%.
One of the most innovative aspects of this research is the development of collimation optics that match the numerical aperture of the laser, producing a nearly collimated beam that can be effectively focused at long distances. “This system pushes the boundaries of what’s possible with fiber lasers,” said Quoc. “The ability to process materials at such distances opens up new possibilities for industries that require precision and power.”
The experimental results demonstrated the system’s capability to drill holes on a 1 mm thick stainless-steel plate within 5 seconds at distances ranging from 20 meters to 500 meters. This achievement underscores the feasibility of using high-power quasi-single-mode fiber lasers for long-range material processing and combat applications.
The implications for the energy sector are profound. High-power fiber lasers have the potential to enhance the efficiency and precision of drilling and cutting processes in renewable energy infrastructure, such as solar panel manufacturing and wind turbine maintenance. Additionally, the ability to perform these tasks at a distance could significantly improve safety and reduce downtime.
“This research is a game-changer,” said a senior engineer from a leading renewable energy company. “The precision and range offered by this laser system could streamline our operations and reduce costs, making renewable energy even more competitive.”
The development of this high-power quasi-single-mode fiber laser system is a testament to the ongoing advancements in laser technology. As Quoc and his team continue to refine their system, the potential applications in various industries, from energy to defense, are vast and exciting. The future of laser technology is bright, and this breakthrough is a significant step forward in harnessing its power.