What is Pulse Laser Cleaning?

1. LASER CLEANING IS A FOUR-STEP PROCESS

The first step is infusion: pulses of infrared light permeate the grit, grime and other matter that has built up on the surface being cleaning. The second step is absorption: The matter being cleaning absorbs the laser’s energy and heats up, but the substrate (i.e. the material beneath) remains cool. The third step is separation: The temperature difference between the matter and the substrate material causes the two to separate. The fourth and final step is the most satisfying: dissolution: During dissolution, the target matter either evaporates completely or transforms into dust that is easily vacuumed up.

2. LASER CLEANING IS GREENER AND SAFER

Traditional cleaning methods often require harsh chemical solvents or blast materials. Laser cleaning eliminates those entirely. Indeed, there often isn’t even residue remaining after the cleaning—the targeted matter evaporates completely. This means there are no airborne particles that would otherwise require time-intensive inspections and clean-ups. This also provides increased safety—there are no projectiles like sand, glass beads or dry ice pellets that can strike or be inhaled by workers.

3. LASER CLEANING CAN SAVE CONTRACTORS MONEY

Since laser cleaning is so efficient and effective, it often means lower costs. There is far less prep time required when compared to traditional cleaning methods. Also, there’s typically little or no costs associated with disposal—and less maintenance required when compared to traditional, bulkier systems. And because the laser is digitally controlled, the process can be automated, which means labor costs can be minimized as well.

4. LASER CLEANING IS PRECISE AND VERSATILE

One problem construction professionals frequently face when conducting a restoration is collateral damage—that is, damaging the original materials, or compromising a desirable patina, in the cleaning process. Laser cleaning eliminates that issue. Its digital controls and exacting parameters allow users to calibrate and clean down to the nanometer level. This means contractors can easily retain patinas, keep industrial parts intact and restore even the most delicate carvings. This precision is also coupled with versatility. The laser can be used on everything from metals like steel, copper, and aluminum, to various masonry like marble and bricks, as well as surfaces like wood, concrete, and sheetrock.

As contractors undertake their next surface cleaning project, consider taking advantage of what laser cleaning technology offers. Its benefits are numerous, from safety and cost reduction to precision and versatility. And it is being used by more and more professionals every day—not just in construction, but also in manufacturing, aerospace, military and transportation. Whether contractors are removing rust or paint, or refurbishing an entire aircraft, laser cleaning technology can help.