How to Extend the Lifespan of CO₂ Laser Tubes – PURI Laser's Daily Maintenance Guide

In today’s competitive market, the longevity and performance of a CO₂ laser tube are not only crucial for end-user satisfaction but also directly impact distributors’ after-sales costs and brand reputation. As a professional CO₂ laser tube manufacturer, PURI Laser has compiled a proven set of best practices to help extend tube life, reduce failure rates, and improve long-term reliability.

1. Pre-shipment Conditioning: Prolong the Tube Life from Day One

The way a laser tube is handled before packaging plays a significant role in its early-stage stability and long-term performance. PURI recommends:

• Low-power pre-activation for 10 seconds after initial lighting test. This allows the mixed gas inside to stabilize and improves excitation uniformity.

• Cooling down for 5–10 minutes before packaging to ensure the internal temperature returns to normal, reducing thermal stress and improving safety during transportation.

2. Installation Stage: Small Details, Big Impact

Proper installation is essential. When distributors or users receive the laser tube, pay attention to the following:

Accurate optical alignment: Misalignment may lead to beam loss, internal reflection, or damage to the optical system.

• Correct cooling water flow: Always direct cooling water to enter from the laser output side to prioritize cooling of heat-intensive areas.

• Flexible mounting: Avoid rigid supports that may stress the glass tube and lead to cracks or damage from vibration.

3. Daily Maintenance: Minimal Effort, Maximum Return

Stable performance in high-frequency usage environments depends on regular upkeep. We recommend:

• Keep water temperature between 15°C and 25°C to prevent overheating or condensation.

• Use purified water or industrial-grade coolant, and change it regularly to avoid scaling or corrosion inside the water jacket.

• Keep laser current within rated limits to prevent overload and premature aging.

• Clean lenses and laser head regularly to avoid dust and contaminants affecting beam quality and output precision.

4. Managing Natural Power Attenuation: Extend Usage Effectively

After around 8,000 hours of use, it is natural for CO₂ laser tubes to show signs of power attenuation. Instead of immediate replacement, consider:

• Realigning the beam path to optimize energy output;

• Reducing frequency or power settings to slow down gas degradation;

• Using high-quality power supplies and stable control systems to minimize discharge fluctuations.

With proper handling, your laser tube can continue operating efficiently well beyond the expected lifespan—saving your customers money and strengthening your brand reputation.

✅ Final Thoughts:

Extending the life of a CO₂ laser tube is not just about one trick—it’s about doing the small things right at every stage. PURI Laser is committed to providing reliable, long-lasting laser solutions with a focus on quality and service. If you need expert advice or support, feel free to reach out to our technical team anytime.