When it comes to laser welding, effective containment and safety are crucial, particularly for high-power systems like hand-held fiber laser welders. While these systems can reach high power levels, we have often found that our 300W/cm² soft wall laser barriers, from exposure of a 5mm diameter beam for up to 100 seconds, are sufficient for containment.
Clearing Up Misnomers About Laser Safety Barriers
A big misnomer is that all you need is a welding screen; in fact, you do need to contain the laser for the individuals around you. Standard welding screens will not contain the invisible laser energy that is being generated.
A second misnomer is that you are protecting from a direct hit. Generally, when designing a laser safety containment system, you are protecting the outer perimeter against scattered or diffused laser energy—along with containing the bright white light of a welder.
Why 300W Barriers Work for Hand-Held Fiber Laser Welders
Laser safety systems utilize barriers and curtains generally to protect against scattered or diffused reflections. This approach often provides ample containment and can meet the safety needs of high-power laser systems, offering a flexible solution for industrial, manufacturing, and research facilities.
Advantages of Soft Wall Barriers
Our soft wall systems also act as welding screens, containing both scattered radiation and intense bright welding light within a specified area. These systems are made with certified FM Approved materials for welding, ensuring reliable performance in high-risk environments.
Soft wall barriers are ideal for:
- Industrial and Manufacturing Facilities: Easy to install and adjust, providing quick solutions for changing workspace configurations.
- Research Settings: Effective for temporary setups where equipment and personnel may need to be reconfigured often.
- Welding Environments: Contain intense light and scattered radiation, creating a safer environment for individuals outside of the welding area.
Complementary Safety Equipment
Laser welding safety equipment for eyes and total environment protection are essential complements to soft wall systems. Together, they create a comprehensive safety solution to safeguard against laser hazards.
ANSI Standards and Safety Consultation
According to ANSI Z136 standards, determining the appropriate containment method and specifications should be done by a Laser Safety Officer. Each situation is unique, and the right solution should always be determined by the LSO on site. Soft wall barriers have proven to be a versatile and efficient option across various industries.
For more information on how our laser safety solutions can meet your needs, contact us to discuss your specific requirements.