Scanlab Collimation Module

fiber connection for scan heads

Collimation Module

Fiber optic connection for scanning heads

The Collimation Module allows direct connection of fiber-coupled lasers to the scanning head. Typical apertures are 30 mm.

The module provides a robust mechanical coupling and optically collimates the laser radiation to match the aperture of the scanning head.

The optics used are suitable for multi-kW laser powers and can accommodate a wide range of beam qualities.

Unique features of the collimation modules

Ruggedized housing (water-cooled entrance aperture; stainless steel)

Manually adjustable collimating optics, including scale ring

Available with or without camera port (90°/180° models)

Pyrometer, vision and OCT connectable in 90° configuration

Additional beam splitter and camera adapter with C connector available as add-ons (for 90° configuration)

Flexible mounting options

Replaceable protection window in front of collimating optics

Good transmission to red-guided lasers

Optics for laser powers of several kilowatts

Typical Applications:

•  Welding, micro-welding

•  Cutting

•  Rapid prototyping, additive manufacturing

Typical Industries:

•  Automotive

•  Mechanical engineering and metalworking

Layout and Principle of Operation

The solidly designed Collimation Module includes an adapter for mounting the module and scan system to a machine.

Installation is possible from four sides, providing a high level of integration flexibility. 

Various fiber adapters are offered for laser coupling. The water-cooled, stainless-steel beam entrance aperture is corrosion-free even when using DI water.

A scale ring facilitates manual adjustment of the movable collimation optic.

This allows precisely setting the focus position to the scan system’s nominal working distance, as well as compensating for tolerances.

Housing

The Collimation Module‘s robust housing is dust and splash proof – particularly at the junction to the scan head. 

A replaceable protective window in front of the collimation optic additionally protects the lens unit from dust infiltration when changing fibers. 

This guarantees a long service life in industrial environments.

Optional Camera Port 

The Collimation Module can be optionally equipped with a camera adapter for process control or workpiece position detection. 

The light arriving from the workpiece is coupled out of the laser beam path by an integrated beam splitter and directed to an observation port. 

The laser light itself, however, is nearly fully reflected by the beam splitter to establish a 90° angle between fiber-in and beam-out.