Laser tube kaput???

[vchalloner]

I just finished installing my new 600 x 900 stage and aligning the laser and was doing some test cuts when it looked like the laser lost power and couldn't even burn a spot. After checking everything, I found the end of the laser tube looked like it was etched away with spider cracks in it (see pics). Everything had been cleaned before hand and cooling was operational, so the tube had not overheated. The laser spot is also no longer a nice circle but a ring and barely marked the cardboard I tested it on. Is there anyway to fix this or is it kaput? The tube is a RECI 80W and is less than a year old.

[Tech_Marco]

I don't think it could be fixed. In most cased the problem is caused by over-heated (or thermo-shock). But I coudln't eliminate out the possible of quality issue on the lens. Reci may offer 6~9 months warranty so if it is still within the warranty, contact the seller and ask if possible to get a replacement.

By the way, what cooling system did you use? What was operationing current and water temperture?
Also, did you use it in very cold weahter like a garage where temperature could drop like below 50'F?


Marco