Background
Laser micromachining processes have many advantages. They allow for micro-scale machining and are contact free, which means no surface contamination. In addition, laser welding makes it possible to fabricate components without adhesive for results that are more stable, durable, and shock resistant.
Solution
CO2 lasers offer a number of characteristics that are very useful for machining polymeric materials. CO2 laser radiation is largely absorbed by most plastic substances, even if no colorant is added. As a result, these lasers can just as readily be used for cutting and drilling as for welding plastic parts and films. Lasers are ideal for these applications because they allow for highly localized heating and very fast processing.