A laser (Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation) is generally evident as a beam of light. This laser beam of light typically has the dual abilities of being able to travel very long distances with little divergence and also the ability to focus on a very small and finite spot.

These dual capabilities mean laser technology is now being be used in a wide variety of applications in manufacturing, packaging, entertainment and other industries. And Laser Resources is perfectly set up to assist with all and any possible applications in Australia.

After first being developed in 1960 some of the more obvious applications have been for laser cutting, laser welding, and laser marking. And these applications have been used with the largest of challenges cutting and welding metals for buildings to the minute detail of manufacturing and repairing jewelry and electronics. And, of course, we now find lasers in a broad range of products and technologies from CD players and other entertainment systems to various medical applications to measuring devices.

So How Does A Laser Work?

A laser machine is typically made up three main components; an optical resonator, a gain medium, and an external power source.

For a laser to work the gain medium has to be “pumped” by the power source to get the atoms into an excited state. It is necessary to have a large collection of atoms excited to a factor two or three times above their norm for the laser to work efficiently.

Once the gain medium is pumped, it contains a collection of atoms with many of the electrons sitting in excited levels. Just as the electrons absorbed some amount of energy to reach this excited level, they can also release this energy.

The released energy comes in the form of photons (light energy). When released the photon has a very specific wavelength (color) that depends on the state of the electron's energy when the photon is released. This is the basis for the laser beam.

This overview is designed to give you a general understanding of how laser technology works. If you have any questions or would like a more detailed explanation of how laser technology may be applied for your business we would be very pleased to hear from you.

Laser Resources. Australia's leader in laser related technologies.