FAQ

Q1: Can I send parts for testing laser cleaning?

Yes, we can test laser cleaning on your material. After the test, we send you the test results, along with videos of the cleaning process.

Q2: Can I also mark with these lasers?

Yes, our software CleanMark allows marking texts and images with Low Power and High Power Machines.

Q3: How wide is the laser beam?

The laser beam can go up to 20cm wide (focal length 400mm). However, this is not the most important aspect of the  laser beam. An essential element for our lasers is the Cleansweep software, which allows you to change the frequency, intensity, shape and size of the laser beam. The combination of these variables offers efficient configurations for different applications.

Q4: Can the cleaning laser run 24/7?

Yes, we have some installations that have been running 24/7 for years.

Q5: Do P-Laser Machines work on a robot?

All systems can be automated or mounted on a robot. 

Q6: Does the cleaning laser work in all environmental conditions?

The laser works in the following ‘normal’ conditions: temperatures  between 0 and 38°C, and humidity is between 25 and 55%. If the environment is too hot, cold or humid, P-Laser suggests using climatisation and/or dehumidification. 

Q7: What are the power requirements for laser cleaning?

P-Laser Low and Mid Power Machines work with 110-220V, High Power Lasers require 380-440V.

Q8: Is laser cleaning safe?

Laser cleaning is a safe cleaning method, but the radiation is dangerous for the eyes. Always use appropriate laser goggles when the machine is active. 

Q9: What is the speed of laser cleaning?

The speed with which a laser can clean a surface depends on the power of the laser, the software settings, and the variables mentioned above. For example, the removal of wax from a piece of aluminum takes 12m²/hour with a 500W machine; removing blue epoxy paint takes an hour for 2m² with a 100W machine, and removing decolorisation from a weld can be done at a speed of 8.6 m/min.

However, every application has to be tested to determine the best possible cleaning speed.Generally speaking, automated applications and robots achieve the highest cleaning speed.

Q10: Do I need a Low, Mid or High Power cleaning laser?

To be able to suggest the right solution, we need some information on the application, such as:

• What is the application?
• Which industry are we talking about?
• Which cleaning method do you use at the moment?
• What is the contamination you want to remove? 
• What is the thickness of the layer?
• What is the type of base material?
• What is the surface (in m² or in m²/hour) that has to be cleaned?
• Do you need an in-line application?
• How often do you need to clean the material?

We always need to test the result of laser cleaning on your material, as every application is different.

Q11: Do I need training to operate the cleaning laser?

P-Laser offers one day of training for every customer. The training includes a safety course and training on how to operate the laser and how to use the software.

Q12: What maintenance is required with laser cleaning?

Low Power P-Lasers are air-cooled, and don’t require a lot of maintenance. However, it is important to keep the lens and filters clean at all time.

Mid and High Power P-Lasers are water cooled, and require a bit more maintenance. Check the filters and chillers every month. Keep the lens clean at all time. We recommend a yearly check-up of your system by P-Laser staff. We also offer a remote monitoring service, with which P-Laser staff can check alarms, temperatures, humidity etc. as a proactive tool.

Q13: What are the running costs of laser cleaning?

To operate a cleaning laser, you need electricity: 0.4 kW (50W) to 7 kW (1000W).  Furthermore, some cleaning lasers use compressed air. Lastly, there is a yearly fee for the P-Laser software, Cleansweep.