Positioning Accuracy

Machining accuracy is also limited by our ability to precisely position the laser beam with respect to the workpiece. There are two approaches here: you can leave the beam fixed and move the workpiece using translations stages, or you can leave the workpiece stationary and move the laser beam using galvanometers. We typically use the first approach.

Our workstations can be equipped with various translation stages offering trade-offs between range, resolution, speed and cost. Typically we equip our workstations with stages providing step resolution of one micron (and accuracy over the full 100 mm range of 5 microns). Higher resolution stages are available, but they may be pricey. You also need to be aware that the highest resolution stages must be installed on very heavy granite platforms. This further increases the system cost.