Robotec 100W Laser/RepairTimeline

Diagnosis

• Laser cutting power was noticeably less, with reports of multiple passes being necessary to cut through material starting as early as 25NOV17.
• On 12DEC17, a concerted effort to collect evidence of the low power phenomenon was pursued.
  • The problem was verified, and the laser's mirrors were examined for alignment issues.
  • No problems with the mirrors were identified, so it was decided to contact the manufacturer.
• On 13DEC17, the manufacturer was emailed, they requested photos of various parts of the laser to determine proper installation.
• The requested photos were provided.
• On 14DEC17, the manufacturer determined that the problem is a defective laser tube and offered to replace it under warranty
  • This replacement is contingent on photos of the defective tube's destruction
• On 15DEC17, the laser tube was permanently disabled in a manner allowing serial number identification. Photos of the destroyed tube were emailed to the manufacturer.
  • The manufacturer replied that the replacement tube is being shipped via DHL. Shipping ETA 21DEC17.
  • Current plans are to meet at shop on Thursday night and install the new tube.
• On 22DEC17 the new tube arrived, and was installed
  • We decided to only run the laser at a max of 80% power until more diagnostics could be run.
  • The laser is cutting again, however we're not sure if its giving us its best effort.