Maximizing Output Power in DIY CNC Laser Cutters

[theycallmevirgo]

TL;DR

How many additional mirrors and/or additional distance can I have in a laser assembly before I start seeing power losses?

I was thinking of an improvement to the "traditional" diy cnc laser cutter that might entail some extra travel for the laser and/or additional (stationary) mirrors. Is there some way to calculate how this will affect output power?

Many thanks in advance

Joe

 

[Tom.G]

Rule-of Thumb:
Using plane glass (uncoated), you lose about 4% at each air/glass interface.

That's why high power Lasers us mirrors instead of lenses, that 4% cracks the lenses.

You can do much better if using an Anti-Reflective coating for the specific light wavelength. Front-surface mirrors are a good option, but those can be pricey and difficut to clean without damage.

Beam distance thru air shouldn't be a major problem in itself, but you may have to adjust the focal point of the beam by modifying the optics.

Have Fun!
Tom