3 Major Causes of CO₂ Laser Tube Power Attenuation And How To Handle Them

Practical Insights from PURI Laser to Help Distributors and OEMs Reduce After-Sales Costs

In daily operation of CO₂ laser machines, power attenuation of the laser tube is a common issue. While some decline in performance over time is inevitable, understanding the root causes and applying the right countermeasures can significantly extend tube lifespan and maintain consistent cutting quality. Based on 16 years of manufacturing experience, PURI Laser summarizes the three key factors behind laser tube degradation — and how to deal with them effectively.

1. Deactivation of Internal Gas Components

CO₂ laser tubes are filled with a mixture of gases such as CO₂, N₂, and He. Over time, these gases may lose their effectiveness, especially nitrogen, which plays a vital role in laser excitation. As a result, laser output weakens.

Solutions:

Choose tubes that use catalyst stabilization technology (like PURI’s proprietary formula) to slow down gas decay.

Turn off the machine when not in use to prevent idle discharge.

Monitor optical power regularly and establish preventive replacement cycles for high-load applications.

2. Overloaded Operating Current

To increase cutting speed, some users push the laser tube with excessive current. Long-term overdriving causes electrode damage, abnormal heat build-up, and rapid efficiency loss.

Solutions:

Keep current within manufacturer’s recommended range (e.g., 28–30mA for 150W tubes).

Use high-quality power supplies with constant current and overvoltage protection.

Implement a current limiter at the software or hardware level to prevent operator error.

3. Poor Cooling or Inadequate Maintenance

Laser tubes are highly sensitive to temperature. If the cooling system is inefficient, uses hard water, or has large temperature fluctuations, it can cause internal pressure changes and accelerate component fatigue.

Solutions:

Maintain cooling water temperature between 15°C and 25°C, avoiding overheating or condensation.

Use pure water or professional coolant, and replace regularly to prevent scaling or corrosion.

Ensure water flows from the laser output end first, cooling the hottest part of the tube.

Final Thought: Long Life Comes from Smart Use + Smart Design

Power attenuation is part of a laser tube’s natural aging process, but it can be managed and slowed with the right practices. Combining strict maintenance routines with high-quality, rigorously tested products like those from PURI Laser ensures maximum performance and reliability.

For OEMs and distributors, choosing tubes with low attenuation rate can greatly reduce after-sales claims, enhance machine reputation, and improve customer satisfaction.