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LASER CLEANING

What Is Laser Cleaning Laser Photonics
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What Is Laser Cleaning?

The Most Effective Rust Removal Tool in Your Workshop

In laser cleaning, a high-energy laser beam is used to ablate – break molecular bonds and vaporize – unwanted material, be it contaminants or coatings on a surface. The technology can effectively remove corrosion, coatings, paint, and other substances without damaging the underlying substrate. This process is non-contact, controlled, and precise, allowing for the selective removal of unwanted layers.

Laser cleaning is becoming widely adopted as professionals in various industries discover the benefits of this technology. Laser Photonics designs laser cleaning tools in-house, offering its clients turnkey and custom-tailored solutions that replace outdated and harmful industrial cleaning processes.

Discover the Benefits of Laser Cleaning
Elevate Your Maintenance, Repair, and Operations Processes With Laser Cleaning

Laser Photonics offers handheld and stationery laser cleaning systems with custom configurations. Our skilled engineers continue to develop new solutions to provide you with the most effective laser-powered maintenance experience.

Superior Performance

Laser cleaning machines deliver consistent, high-quality results that surpass traditional industrial cleaning methods. A precise and controlled process, laser ablation thoroughly removes contaminants and coatings without damaging the underlying material. This technology is non-contact, making it ideal for treating delicate parts that abrasive cleaning may damage.

Material Versatility

Laser cleaning systems from Laser Photonics effectively clean a wide range of materials, including metals, thermoplastics, composites, stone, wood, and concrete. Whether you’re removing oxidation, paint, oil, carbon deposits, epoxy, powder coating, radioactive particles, zinc plating, rubber residue, or other resistant contaminants and coatings, lasing is a versatile and effective choice for a multitude of applications.

Maintenance Optimization

Laser cleaning does not require consumables or extensive protective measures that are required by methods like sandblasting. By integrating laser cleaning into your maintenance processes, you eliminate the time-consuming preparation and post-process cleanup, thereby reducing operational downtime. This leads to a boost in efficiency, spurred by reduced labor during MRO processes.

Safety & Sustainability

Laser cleaning is an operator-safe and eco-friendly alternative to sandblasting and chemical cleaning. This technology does not rely on abrasive media or toxic chemicals that generate waste and pollution, harming the environment. Operators of laser equipment need only to protect their eyes and the eyes of those nearby. Laser processing generates minimal dust, while any fumes produced can be filtered by a fume extractor.

Long-Term Cost Savings

While the initial investment into a laser cleaning system may be significant, integrating this technology promises long-term benefits and returns. When handled properly, laser-powered tools require minimal upkeep and provide reliable, consistent performance for years. Team Laser Photonics can help make that happen with the help of its user training and maintenance professionals.

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How Laser Cleaning Works

Fiber laser cleaning technology uses laser ablation to controllably vaporize unwanted materials from a surface.

Understanding the Technology:

  • In a laser cleaning system, infrared light is generated in an optical fiber
  • The laser beam travels to the scanhead through the fiber cable
  • Inside the scanhead, single or dual beam technology forms the laser pattern
  • The laser beam vaporizes contaminants and coatings on the workpiece

Laser Cleaning Applications

CleanTech laser cleaning technology transforms surface preparation across numerous industries. It helps preserve vintage vehicles, maintain critical infrastructural elements, restore historical artifacts, recommission military equipment, and stop corrosive deterioration on boats – to name a few top uses. Explore how CleanTech can improve your cleaning and surface treatment operations.

Laser Tire Mold Cleaning
Laser Tire Mold Cleaning

This laser cleaning application demonstrates the effectiveness of laser tire mold cleaning for tire manufacturers in the automotive industry. Traditional…

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Laser Rust Removal from Pipes
Laser Rust Removal from Pipes

This application demonstrates the precision of laser cleaning for rust removal on oil refinery pipes. A 200-watt fiber laser was…

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Laser Cleaning Vs Traditional Methods Laser Photonics

Laser Cleaning vs. Traditional Methods

Discover how laser cleaning outperforms other surface preparation techniques in terms of safety, precision, and sustainability.

Chemical Treatment vs. Laser Cleaning

In contrast to chemical treatment, laser cleaning tools are eco-friendly, operator-safe, and effective on a variety of surfaces. Many chemical cleaners are coating-specific and require time for dilution and application. Moreover, these often contain toxic substances that, when released, can harm ecosystems. Improper handling of chemicals can lead to accidents, such as spills or chemical burns. Chemical treatment requires continuous use of consumables, rigorous protective measures, post-process cleanup, and proper waste management.

Dry Ice Blasting vs. Laser Cleaning

Compared to dry ice blasting, laser cleaning is more versatile for various surfaces and does not come in tow with the ongoing operational costs associated with dry ice. Dry ice blasting has not proved effective on all surfaces or resistant contaminants. Furthermore, while dry ice is made from recycled carbon dioxide and is said to have no contribution to greenhouse gas emissions, cleaning with dry ice, as well as some dry ice production processes, release CO2 back into the air. Safety concerns include the risk of cold burns and operator exposure to CO2 gas buildup in enclosed spaces.

Sandblasting vs. Laser Cleaning

The accuracy laser cleaning offers is far superior to that of sandblasting. Yet the main downside of sandblasting lies in health risks associated with inhaling harmful airborne particles, which can lead to serious respiratory issues. Despite regulations aimed at minimizing exposure, many workers in industries like construction and mining remain at risk, with thousands of deaths linked to silicosis in the U.S. alone. Furthermore, sandblasting generates waste that can include harmful dust, complicating disposal and increasing environmental impact.

Our Laser Cleaning Solutions

Clean Smarter With CleanTech Laser Cleaning

Finishing Lasers

Your precision tool for meticulous surface treatment and a flawless finish.

CleanTech finishing-grade laser systems are ideal for fine, small-scale precision cleaning and polishing tasks. If you are working with thin, delicate metals and other materials, this will be your best choice. A finishing laser system integrates a pulsed, dual axis fiber laser, available in several power configurations. These handheld systems are compact and mobile for easy maneuvering in the shop or in the field.

Portable Laser Cleaning Machine | Marlin Laser 1010
Marlin PF-1010
Finishing Lasers

The Marlin Professional Portable Finishing Laser 1010 is specifically designed to have a small form factor for optimal mobility and…

Hand Held Laser Cleaning Machine | CleanTech CF-1010 Laser
CleanTech CF-1010
Finishing Lasers

Restoring auto parts, removing residue from molds, or trying to achieve a fine polished finish, this hand held laser cleaning…

Hand-held Laser Cleaning Machine | CleanTech CF-1020 Laser
CleanTech CF-1020
Finishing Lasers

The CleanTech CF-1020 hand-held laser cleaning machine is compact and mobile, ready for in-field cleaning, finishing, and other surface preparation…

Surface Finishing Laser | CleanTech CF-1030 Laser
CleanTech CF-1030
Finishing Lasers

Choose our next-gen CleanTech CF-1030 for its speed and power when it comes to producing a high-quality surface finish in…

Conditioning Lasers

The versatility option for a broad range of applications.

CleanTech conditioning laser systems integrate a more powerful pulsed laser, offering greater flexibility in various use cases. If you are looking for a selective coating removal and surface conditioning tool for a variety of materials in mid-scale applications, explore what our conditioning laser systems can do. Our handheld laser cleaning systems feature mobile connectivity for remote control, which allows you to adjust the lasing settings without returning to the main unit.

Laser Rust Cleaning Machine | CleanTech IC-2020 Laser
CleanTech IC-2020
Conditioning Lasers

This CleanTech IC-2020 laser rust cleaning machine delivers value for small- and mid-size businesses, as well as large enterprises via…

Laser Rust Cleaning Machine | CleanTech IC-2010 Laser
CleanTech IC-2010
Conditioning Lasers

For use in-field and at the warehouse, opt for the CleanTech Industrial Conditioning Laser 2010, a handheld dual axis pulsed…

Roughening Lasers

The high-power tool for heavy duty decontamination and conditioning.

CleanTech roughening laser systems deliver the speed and efficiency needed for large-scale, heavy-duty tasks. These integrate a powerful CW laser with modulation option and are instrumental for maintenance in demanding, critical industries like energy, construction, defense, maritime, manufacturing, and transportation.

Metal Laser Cleaning Machine | CleanTech IR-3050 Laser
CleanTech IR-3050
Roughening Lasers

Our most powerful metal laser cleaning machine, the CleanTech Industrial Roughening Laser 3050, offers top speed and efficiency for surface…

Laser Rust Cleaner | CleanTech IR-3040 Roughening Laser
CleanTech IR-3040
Roughening Lasers

CleanTech IR-3040 laser rust cleaner is an effective solution for corrosion and coating removal, de-oxidization and degreasing across a wide…

Laser Cleaning Machine | CleanTech CR-3030 Roughening Laser
CleanTech CR-3030
Roughening Lasers

Applications for this laser cleaning machine include coating removal, decontamination, degreasing, restoration, pre- and post-weld surface preparation, and more

Laser Cleaning Rust | CleanTech CR-3020 Roughening Laser
CleanTech CR-3020
Roughening Lasers

An all-in-one continuous wave fiber laser cleaning system ideal for streamlining cleaning and substrate alteration on uneven surfaces and complex…

Laser Cleaning Machine for Rust Removal | CleanTech CR-3010
CleanTech CR-3010
Roughening Lasers

Utilize this laser cleaning machine for rust removal and coating removal, decontamination, degreasing, pre- and post-weld surface preparation, and texturing.

Industrial Laser Cleaning Machine | CleanTech Titan
CleanTech Titan
Roughening Lasers

The CleanTech Titan is our high-power enclosed cleaning and roughening solution for large-scale industrial applications.

Before lasing - laser photonics After lasing - laser photonics
When selecting a laser system from Laser Photonics, consider factors such as the scale of your operations, safety requirements, material compatibility, operator involvement, and the setting. Our goal is to equip you and your team with the laser tools that fulfill your needs and deliver consistent, reliable results.
Laser Photonics Blaseter Cabinet 4020 4

Maximize Safety With Enclosed Laser Cleaning

For ultimate safety in laser material processing, choose among the enclosed laser systems by Laser Photonics. Although infrared laser light is invisible to the human eye, accidental exposure can pose a risk of eye and skin damage. In Class I laser systems, laser radiation is fully contained inside an enclosure with safe viewing windows.

Laser Photonics offers a variety of Class I laser systems with varying degrees of manual involvement. In fact, we designed the first fully enclosed laser cleaning machine for handheld processing – the CleanTech Blaster Cabinet. We also offer enclosed semi-automatic laser cleaning equipment, including the CleanTech MegaCenter for industrial lines and the CleanTech Robotic Cell with a collaborative robot inside the workcell. Semi-automated laser cleaning is particularly convenient for repetitive tasks, optimizing throughput and consistency, as well as saving time and labor.

Custom-Built Industrial Laser Systems

We equip these industrial laser systems to meet your specific application needs. Whether you seek a solution for resistant substance removal, unique surface profiles, or high-speed processing, these adaptable systems provide the flexibility to optimize your laser cleaning operations.

Laser Robot | CleanTech Industrial Robotic Cell IR-6040
CleanTech IR-6040
Custom Built

Combining robotics and laser cleaning technology inside an enclosed workcell, the CleanTech IR-6040 is ideal for automating repetitive and time-consuming…

Industrial Laser MegaCenter | CleanTech MegaCenter IR-5010
CleanTech IR-5010
Custom Built

Featuring a work area of 36 sq in and automatable sliding doors, the industrial laser cleaning MegaCenter works in a…

Laser Blasting Cabinet | CleanTech CF-4020 Blasting Cabinet
CleanTech CF-4020
Custom Built

Industrial-grade laser blaster cabinet integrates a handheld fiber laser gun inside of an operator safe enclosure for effective rust and…

Titan Laser | CleanTech Titan Express
CleanTech Titan Express
Custom Built

The CleanTech Titan is the preferred choice for mid-scale surface cleaning and roughening with the power of our flagship CleanTech…

Continuous Wave vs. Pulsed

A continuous wave (CW) laser emits light waveforms continuously at a constant amplitude and frequency with the maximum energy of up to 3 kilowatts, depending on your system build. A pulsed laser, by contrast, emits short pulses of light with the energy accumulated in a set timeframe. The longer the pause between pulses, the more powerful the laser pulse. Peak energy of a pulse reaches as high as 10 times the output power of a unit. Separately, our CW lasers can be set to “Modulated” mode for pulsed-like laser release in certain roughening applications.

Continuous Wave Laser Cleaning Machines

Laser Photonics offers continuous wave (CW) laser systems for industrial cleaning applications. These units are designed for heavy duty, speedy surface treatment and offer a truly satisfying lasing experience. CW lasers integrate a water chiller to prevent overheating.

Pulsed Wave Laser Cleaning Machines

A pulsed laser can achieve a higher peak power per pulse than a CW laser. These laser systems come with a low output power, which makes them ideal for high-precision, meticulous surface treatment in small- and mid-scale operations. These units feature an air-cooled, compact, and portable design, with a water chiller option for higher-power systems. 

Pulsed Vs Continuous

Pulsed Conditioning Laser Photonics

Pulsed Wave Finishing Laser Photonics

Choosing A Laser Cleaning System

Choosing the Right Laser Cleaning Machine

Experience the Power of Industrial Laser Cleaning

Laser Photonics offers laser processing systems for a multitude of applications and environments. Whether you’re looking for a compact, portable unit, a robotic laser arm, or a heavy-duty stationery system for your production line, we’ve got you covered. If you’ve got something in mind that you don’t see in our portfolio, contact us – our team is always eager to carry out custom engineering projects.

Key considerations include:

  • Mobile or stationery
  • Handheld or semi-automatic
  • Pulsed or continuous wave laser
  • Single or dual axis scanner
  • Strip rate capacity
  • Fume extractor compatibility
  • Integration into existing production lines
  • Compliance with Class I or Class IV safety standards
  • Compliance with Trade Agreement Act

Our CleanTech cleaning system has revolutionized the way we do contaminant and rust removal from our surfaces. The results are truly remarkable.

Alex Turner
Automotive Shop Owner

Which CleanTech Laser Cleaning Machine Is Right for You?

Roughening (Heavy-Duty) Conditioning (Versatile) Finishing (Fine)
Typical Applications Deep Cleaning
Texturing
Large-Scale
Paint Stripping
Selective Coating Removal
Mid-Scale
Delicate Cleaning
Polishing
Small-Scale
Strip Rate Per Hour 120 – 360 ft2 36 – 60 ft2 6 – 24 ft2
Micro-Surface Alteration Highest Variable Lowest
Material Compatibility Thick Adaptable Thin to Thick

Laser Cleaning Gallery

Browse through stunning laser cleaning application results.

Laser Cleaning Engine Parts
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Laser Rust Removal Rails
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Laser Cleaning Rust From Refinery Pipes
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Health & Environmental Impact

Laser cleaning technology is revamping industrial cleaning, making surface treatment more sustainable by improving workplace safety and reducing ecological footprints.

A workplace that is well-equipped for the efficiency and safety of the operators boosts productivity and job satisfaction. Laser cleaning requires neither physical strength nor heavy protective equipment. By replacing outdated, hazardous, and messy surface treatment operations with laser processing, you improve the well-being of your employees. In its commitment to provide the best operator experience, Laser Photonics engineers and implements the latest innovations in laser technology.

By opting for laser-powered technology, you reduce the circulation of harmful chemicals, abrasive media, and plastics. In fact, laser material processing generates significantly less waste and pollution than some common cleaning practices. In the broader perspective, MRO of industrial equipment reduces the need for replacements by extending equipment lifespan and supports the principles of a circular economy.

Laser Cleaning Environemental Impacts

Restoring antique car pieces was a tedious and time-consuming task until we discovered Laser Photonics’ cleaning machines. They effortlessly removed layers of paint and rust without damaging the underlying metal. A game-changer for our restoration business!

Ethan Lee
Antique Restoration Specialist

Laser Cleaning Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about our laser cleaning systems

Laser cleaning relies on the thermal impact of infrared light to remove unwanted material from a surface, be it contaminants or coatings.

Laser cleaning can remove corrosion, oil, epoxy, paint, powder coatings, oxides, rubber, radioactive particles, carbonaceous deposits, electrolytes, anti-rust coating, and other contaminants and coatings. 

Yes, laser cleaning can effectively remove thick layers of corrosion and coating; severe cases may require processing with a combination of a high-power continuous wave laser and a low-power pulsed laser. 

When used properly, laser cleaning does not damage the base material that is worked on. For the cleaning of thin metals and heat-sensitive materials, choose one of our finishing-grade laser systems. 

Laser cleaning is a contactless, no-consumables cleaning method that is safe for the operator and the environment. In contrast, sandblasting relies on abrasive media to remove materials, can damage the underlying surface, and generates hazardous waste that can be harmful to the environment. 

Always wear appropriate safety eyewear near an active laser system classified above Class I. Laser cleaning is considered an eco-friendly material processing method as it does not involve the use of chemicals, abrasive tools/media, or other consumables. 

Anyone operating a laser system must undergo safety training. However, a CleanTech system is easy to master, and maintenance requirements are minimal.

Laser Photonics provides a 2-year warranty from the time of purchase.  

Curious About Something Else?

Our team is on standby to answer any additional questions. Schedule a virtual meeting with one of our specialists so we can give you more information on laser material processing. Contact us to find out whether CleanTech laser technology is right for you and your business.

Experience the Laser Cleaning Difference

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