High removal rate laser-based coating removal system
US5986234A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 28, 1997 |
| Grant date | Nov 16, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 28, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB23K26/1476
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A compact laser system that removes surface coatings (such as paint, dirt, etc.) at a removal rate as high as 1000 ft.sup.2 /hr or more without damaging the surface. A high repetition rate laser with multiple amplification passes propagating through at least one optical amplifier is used, along with a delivery system consisting of a telescoping and articulating tube which also contains an evacuation system for simultaneously sweeping up the debris produced in the process. The amplified beam can be converted to an output beam by passively switching the polarization of at least one amplified beam. The system also has a personal safety system which protects against accidental exposures.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.