Cathode Characteristics and Measurements

Ion Laser Cathode, Similar to electron tube Cathodes are made to produce an electron cloud when heated. Without the cathode the Laser tube could not sustain a plasma arc. A well functioning cathode is directly related to the health of the laser tube. When the cathode is heated it produces an electron "cloud". This cloud not only sustains the plasma but also prevents the arc from destroying the tube.

The below information is supplied to aid our customers in determining if there cathode is becoming weak in emission characteristics or is blocking the bore, preventing the laser beam from producing it maximum power.

.

A sagged cathode is very common in lasers that have many thousands of hours on them. When the cathode is found to be in poor condition, it is replaced with a new factory replacement. 

 Once replaced along with other internal components the laser is once again capable of another useful life of full service equal to or better than the original. This re-manufacturing process can be repeated several times on the same laser tube. 

Copyright © 2001 Evergreen Laser Corporation