Many different devices, methods, and technologies are used for surface cleaning. One of the more popular is sandblasting, which due to its relatively high invasiveness and labor intensity cannot be used everywhere.
Therefore, alternatives appear, including laser cleaning, which is one of the most effective methods for removing rust and corrosion and preparing material for further processing. This technology works with amazing precision, also eliminating all contaminants such as paints, oils, greases, and discolorations – without disturbing the structure of the cleaned surface.
How does laser cleaning work?
Laser cleaning uses a concentrated beam of light emitted by a laser. This beam has extremely high energy that removes dirt such as paint, rust, oils, and greases by vaporizing or burning them – without damaging the cleaned surface. Thanks to precise control of laser parameters, this process can be adapted to the type of contaminants and material, ensuring complete safety.
Advantages and possibilities of laser cleaning
Laser cleaning technology is used on a large scale in many industries where maintaining surfaces in proper cleanliness is required. It works perfectly in industry, as well as in the restoration of paintings, works of art, and buildings, as the laser cleans without the risk of damaging the substrate. Let's now look at what advantages of laser cleaning make it such a universal method of removing contaminants.
Accuracy
What distinguishes laser cleaning is certainly high accuracy and precision, enabling selective cleaning of contaminants. A laser pulse with precisely selected parameters removes contaminants only from the selected location, regardless of how complex the surface shape is. Thanks to laser technology, we don't have to worry about accidentally damaging surrounding areas.
Efficiency
The entire process is also very efficient, significantly shortens the time of performed work, and is highly effective. As a result, laser cleaning minimizes production downtime and is also more cost-effective in the long run, as it eliminates costs associated with traditional cleaning methods.
Environmental friendliness
It promotes environmentally friendly actions because there is no need to dispose of waste and contaminants. The laser also emits sound at a very low intensity, which in turn translates into work comfort.
Low operating costs
Using a cleaning laser saves on many levels. The cost of laser cleaning is much lower compared to traditional methods because it does not require chemicals or additional consumables. The device is also inexpensive to maintain, which allows you to further reduce operating expenses and positively affects the company's financial policy.
Surface safety
The laser does not disturb the structure of the cleaned material – it only removes dirt and old paint coatings. As a result, laser cleaning works even on very delicate surfaces, also during the conservation of monuments. This technology does not interfere with the base material and does not destroy it – the material retains its original shape and form.
What surfaces can be laser cleaned?
Laser cleaning is used for the selective removal of contaminants on many different surfaces. The laser handles metals such as steel and aluminum perfectly, but also more delicate materials like wood and plastics. Laser cleaning also effectively removes dirt from brick and facades, making it suitable for building renovation and conservation. Due to its non-invasiveness and no risk of damaging the original structure of the material, conservators of monuments increasingly require the use of this method in renovation and conservation processes.
Does laser cleaning require the use of chemicals?
Laser cleaning is a technology that completely eliminates the need for chemicals. This makes it environmentally friendly and at the same time extremely effective – precisely and safely removing paint, rust, and oils, leaving the surface intact.
Laser cleaning as an alternative to sandblasting
However, the most popular method of surface cleaning is sandblasting. It cannot be used in all cases, it will not work on sensitive surfaces, and also where speed and short cleaning time are important. Additionally, sandblasting generates a large amount of waste in the form of dust, sand, and contaminant residues, which makes cleaning up after the process difficult, significantly extends the service completion time, or even makes it impossible to perform the service in some places.
Laser cleaning has proven to be the most appropriate alternative to it. The laser features a high pulse that thoroughly removes old paints, rust, and greasy contaminants. Moreover, it allows not only to get rid of contaminated coatings but also to polish and change the adhesion of the surface. Cleaning using sandblasting does not allow for such versatile use of this technology. In addition, there is a high risk that surfaces will be damaged.
In which industries is laser cleaning used?
Laser cleaning works perfectly in precise industrial applications, renovation processes, and monument conservation. It is used, among others, in the automotive, aviation, medical, electronic, petrochemical, and energy industries, where it plays an important role in cleaning and maintaining technologically advanced components and delicate architectural elements.
Fanuci cleaning laser – fast and accurate industrial cleaning
At the CNC Machine Center, for laser cleaning we use the Fanuci Futura cleaning laser available in FIBER and MOPA technology. Fiber optic technology is characterized by low operating costs, the ability to clean highly reflective materials, and a long working time of up to 100,000 hours. The device also uses a laser head with an electric movable beam system with a mechanism driving the focusing lens, thanks to which it is possible to automatically change its position.
Summary
Cleaning lasers have significantly transformed surface cleaning processes, especially those delicate and undergoing renovation. It's effectiveness combined with safety and efficiency, accompanied by a very wide spectrum of application. This modern cleaning method enables effective removal of dirt, even from difficult places, without the risk of damaging the surface. If you are looking for a solution that will provide effectiveness, ecology, and exceptional precision – laser cleaning is the perfect option to consider.
Contact our expert and discover how laser cleaning can streamline your processes. We will help you select ideal laser solutions that will be fully tailored to your needs and challenges.