Cincinnati CL-7 Use and care manual

-
DPERATIDN
1
SAFETY AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL
EM-355 (2 APR 92)
CNC LASER
CENTER
CINCINNATI INCORPORATED
CINCINNATI, OHIO 45211

INTRODUCTION
SECTION 1
SECTION 2
SECTION 3
SECTION 4
SECTION 5
SECT~ON 6
~DENTIFICATION ~-----~------------------- 1-1
iNSTAllATION
liFTING AND MOVING --------------------------- 2-1
FOUNDATION -------------------- _ --- _ ---- ___ ---- 2-1
ERECTION OF MACHINE-------------------------- 2-2
ERECTION OF COMPONENTS-------------------- 2-2
LEVELING---- ___ --------- ________ -----_---- __ --- 2-2
iNITIAL LUBRICATION---------------------------- 2-2
ELECTRICAL CONNECTION______________________ 2-2
SAFETY
SAFETY IS EVERYONE'S JOB _____________________ 3-1
HAZARDS---- ______ ------_-----_________________ 3-4
ASSOCIATED HAZARDS-------------------------- 3-5
GAS STORAGE ---------------------------------- 3-5
PRECAUTIONS ---------------------------------- 3-8
SAFETY SIGNS---------------------------------- 3-8
SAFETY GUIDELINES---------------------------- 3-10
SAFETY MAINTENANCE CHI;:CK_______
~-----~---- 3-iO
SPECIFICATIONS
DIMENSIONS __ --- ___ ---- ___ ----- ___ ---__________ 4-1
SPECIFICATIONS ________________________ ----- __ _ 4-i
PIPING CONNECTIONS__________________________ 4-1
EXTERNAL OPTICAL ELEMENTS----------------- 4-2
GAS REQUIREMENTS--------------------------- 4-2
CONTOURING ACCURACY________________________ 4-3
AMBIENT TEMPERATURE
------------------------ 4-4
CAPACITIES _________ ------_--- ___ --- __ ---- ___ --- 4-4
PRINCIPAL OF OPERATION ---------------------- 4-4
SETaUP AND USE
LOADING MATERIAL----------------------------- 5-1
GAGING ------ ___________ --------------------- __ 5-1
MACH~NE CONTROlS
OPERATOR CONTROL CONSOLE _________________ 6-1
REMOTE STATION ------------------------------- 6-6
lASER HEAD CONTROl PANEL___________________ 6-7
COPYRIGHT© 1991
CINCINNATI INCORPORATED

SECTION 7
SECTION 8
SECTION 9
SECTION 10
OPERATION
DAILY START-UP--------------------------------- 7-1
NORMAL SHUTDOWN --------------------------- 7·1
LENS CENTERING----------------------------·-- 7·1
LENS FOCAL POINT LOCATION PROCEDURE ----- 7·2
ASSIST
GAS PRESSURE ADJUSTMENT----------- 7-5
COOLANT • -----.-------------------. __ •• ----- •• -7·5
POWER CONTROL ------------------------------ 7-6
PROGRAMMING --------------------------------- 7·9
SPECIAL
CODE LIST----------------------------- 7·9
OPTIONS
BALL TRANSFER LOAD STATION ----------------- 8-1
SCRAP CONVEYOR ----------------------------- 8·1
HeNe LASER-------------·----------------------- 8-1
NON-CONTACT HEAD --------------------------- 8-1
PROGRAMMABLE ASSIST GAS PRESSURE------- 8·2
TOUCH SENSOR PROBE ------------------------- 8-2
MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENTS
LUBRICATION REQUIREMENTS------------------- 9-1
PALLET DRIVE MAINTENANCE ------------------- 9-1
OPTICS----------------------------------------- 9-2
BEAM DELIVERY ALIGNMENT--------------------- 9·3
WHEN REQUIRED------------------------ 9·3
TOOLS
REQUIRED------------------------ 9·4
COMPLETE
SYSTEM ALIGNMENT---------- 9-4
LASER HEAD ALIGNMENT TO MACHINE---- 9-4
X-AXIS BEAM ALIGNMENT---------------- 9-5
Y-AXIS BEAM ALIGNMENT----------------- 9·6
Z-AXIS
ALIGNMENT----------------------- 9-7
FINAL ALIGNMENT CHECK---------------- 9-8
1/4
WAVE PHASE RETARDER COOLING----------- 9-9
POWER LEVEL CONTROL •• ---------------------- 9-9
STAND ALONE OPERATION- LASER HEAD-------- 9-10
TROUBLESHOOTING
---------------------------- 9-11
ALARM AND OPERATOR MESSAGES ------------- 9-11
PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE------------------- 9·13
SERVICE AND PARTS
SERVICE---------------------------------------- 10-1
TRAINING--------------------------------------- 10-1
ORDERING REPAIR PARTS----------------------- 10·1
RETURNING PARTS FOR CREDIT----------------- 10·1
2

INTRODUCTION
CINCINNATI CL-7 CNC LASER CENTER
The Laser Center produces two-dimensional contoured shapes from fiat matertal by mov-
ing a focussed laser beam along a programmed path. The beam from a stationary laser
resonator is directed to a moving lens by two mirrors mounted on a moving gantry. The
workpiece remains stationary while a narrow strip of matertal is removed along the path
made by the lens. Matertal is removed by vaporization and melting where the lens con-
centrates laser power into a small spot on the workpiece. Assist gas and coolant are also
used to control the cutting process.
The mirrors and lens are positioned by the gantry to produce the programmed workpiece
geometry. A CNC is used to command servo dlives, which control the gantly motion.
The CNC program is provided by the user and also includes commands to specify fee-
drate, laser power, assist gas and coolant. The Laser Center is equipped 'With an exhaust
system, which draws air down from the cutting area to assist in the removal of process
by-products.
PART QUALITY
The follovving factors affect part quality:
., Machine condition
e Operator ability
• Setup and Programming
., Quality and type of material
CINCINNATI machines are designed to be rugged and durable. However, improper
adjustment or lack of maintenance can reduce the quality of parts produced on the
machine. The quality of a laser-cut edge depends on the combination of a uniform laser
beam of adequate power, properly focused on the workpiece 'With an adequate supply of
the correct assist gas, traveling at a speed compatible 'With the material removal rate.
Uniform beam quality and power level are most influenced by the alignment and cleanli-
ness of the optical elements (internal resonator mirrors, external beam delivery mirrors
and the focusing lens).
Critical manual adjustments are: Lens focal point location, lens-to-nozzle centertng, and
the assist gas pressure, unless programmable gas pressure option is included.
Part quality depends on the CNC program to command the correct combination of laser
power, assist gas, feedrate and coolant for the material type and thickness being pro-
cessed. Part accuracy depends on the CNC program for proper use of kerf width compen-
sation and for selection of feedrate 'Within radius contouring accuracy limits.
Material quality can affect the repeatability of process parameters. Matertal which has
uniform composition and thickness and a smooth, clean surface 'Will minimize variations
in part quality.

SECTION 1 IDENTIFICATION
CL-7 CNC LASER CENTER
FIGURE 1-1
1. LASER HEAD CONTROL
2. LASER WARNING LIGHT
3. HIGH VOLTAGE WARNING
4. LASER HEAD
5. Z-AXIS PROTECTIVE HOUSING
6. CUTTING HEAD ASSEMBLY
7. GANTRY
8. X-AXIS BEAM DELIVERY MIRROR BOX
9. UPPER WORK PALLET
10. X-AXIS GUIDE AND X-AXIS BALLSCREW
(Covered by bellows)
11. X-AXIS BEAM TUBE
12. SUPPORT GRID
13. LOWER WORK PALLET
14. FEED HOLD BUTTON (Pallet drive adjustment
located underneath plate on both sides of frame)
15. LOAD STATION PENDANT
16. LOAD FRAME
17. FUME/COOLANT
PAN
18. OPERATOR'S MANUAL
19. SAFETY MAT
20. OPERATOR CONTROL CONSOLE
21. MAIN FRAME
1-1

22. ASSIST GAS PRESSURE SWITCH
23. Z-AXIS DRIVE MOTOR (Behind bellows)
24. MATERIAL CONTACT SWITCH
25. COUNTERBALANCE SPRING
26. PROGRAMMABLE ASSIST GAS
27. 5.0" FOCAL LENGTHLENS HOLDER
28. BLANK LENS HOLDER
29. LENS PURGE GAS LINE
30. LENS COOLING WATER LINE
31. TOUCH PROBE
32. MAGNETIC BREAKAWAY COUPLING
33. COOLANT LINE (Cutting fli.l,id)
34. HINGED COVER (Shown removed)
35. MATERIAL FOLLOWER/ADJUSTING
RING
FIGURE
1-2
1-2

FIGURE 1-3
36. FUME DUCT (Exits to axial flow fan attached to 41. PALLET DRIVE MOTORS (2)
outside of frame) 42. OPTICS COOLANT FILTERS (2)
37. PALLET DRIVE CABLE 43. FUME PLENUM
38. X-AXIS SERVO MOTOR 44. SCRAP TRAY
39. SCRAP CONVEYORS (Optional) 45. COOLANT PUMP AND RESERVOIR
40. X-AXIS OVERTRAVEL BUMPER 46. COOLANT RESERVOIR FILTER
1-3

LIFTING &MOVING
Machine weights as shipped are approximately:
MAINFRAME LOAD FRAME
5 X 10- 22,000 lbs. 8,000 lbs.
(9,977 Kg.) (3,628 kg.)
6 X 12- 25,000 lbs. 9,500 lbs.
(11,338 kg.)
(4,308 kg.)
Variations of plus or minus 500 pounds (227 Kg)
from these figures are possible, depending on
optional equipment installed.
The Main Frame is lifted by using the four lifting
locations provided. There are two 1-l/4" diameter
holes located in front of the Resonator. These holes
are for standard lifting devises. There are also two
1
"-8 UNC tapped holes for swivel clevises located at
the front of the Main Frame. See Figure 2-1.
CAUTION
WHEN liFTING MAIN FRAME BE SURE THAT
SWIVEL ClEVISES (C.I. PART #525462) ARE
INSTAllED AS MEANS TO liFT THE FRONT
(lOAD FRAME END). USING AN EYEBOlT OR
ANY OTHER DEVICE NOT DESIGNED FOR
EXCESSIVE SIDE
lOADS COUlD RESULT IN
SERIOUS INJURY
OR DEATH TO BYSTANDERS
AND/OR CAUSE EXTENSIVE DAMAGE TO
THE
MAIN FRAME AND RESONATOR.
FIGURE 2~1 = lifting Main Frame
IMPORTANT: Extreme cue must be taken not
to subject the machine to shock loads. The
machine must be lifted and. set down gently.
2-1
The Load Frame is lifted by placing four chain
hooks at each of the four outer machine corners.
The chain hooks are hooked-in the access holes at
these locations. See Figure 2-2.
FIGURE 2=2- lifting load Frame
FOUNDATION
This section applies only to machines installed in
an area not affected by shock inducing equipment,
such as punch presses, turret punches, etc.
Installations involving this type of equipment in
close proximity to the machine require special
considerations and CINCINNATI INCORPORATED
must be consulted.
A Foundation Plan drawing is provided when the
machine is ordered. This drawing will provide the
user with ~11 the detailed information required to
locate the equipment and the eight machine
anchors. The eight anchor locations, each approx-
imately 6" x 6" (152 x 152 rum), should be prepared
by the customer prior to arrival of the equipment.
These eight pads must be pre-leveled to lie in the
same plane within .50 inches (12.7 mm); and eight
anchor holes should be drilled as specified on
Foundation Plan drawing. Shims for final leveling,
anchors, studs, nuts and isolation pads are
provided by CINCINNATI INCORPORATED.
Optional wedge type adjustable mounts are
available. These provide a secure footing for the
machine, limited isolation from shock and will
considerably speed the installation process.
Floor should be concrete, have a minimum thick-
ness of 6 inches ( 152 mm), and be free from cracks.

ERECTION OF MACHINE
After setting the machine on the anchor studs,
place washers and nuts on studs but do not
tighten. Erection consists of the following steps:
l. Be sure lifting devises are removed.
2. Remove all steel banding and protective
wrappings.
3. Install fume fan and duct connecting to fume
pan with flange and fasteners provided. Be sure
to seal connection with a bead of RTV silicone.
Make the electrical connection to the fan drive
motor with wiring provided.
4. Install the operator's control console with the
fasteners provided. Refer to Electrical Section
for connection.
5. Refer to Laser Manufacturer's manual provided
for preparation of the laser resonator.
ERECTION OF COMPONENTS
The water chiller is a free-standing unit requiring only
floor
support. It is connected at a central location
with hoses furnished with machine (for chiller
location shown on Foundation Plan) on the drive side
at the laser end of the frame. The chiller should be
positioned as shown on the Foundation Plan drawing.
Consult CINCINNATI INCORPORATED if an
alternative chiller location is required.
After
chiller (and transformer) installation, wiring
and final leveling, the safety cable on the drive side
of the machine should be installed as shown on the
Foundation Plan drawing. Likewise, the safety
mats must be located and connected.
LEVELING
Leveling adjustments are made using jackscrews,
which are accessible through openings in the frame
above each of eight mounting pads. Slotted shims
are inserted between the machine foot and the steel
spacer block as shown on the Foundation Plan
drawing. After shims are inserted, jack screws are
to be backed-off or removed. On machines
equipped with optional adjustable wedge type
mounts, adjustments are made using the wedge
screw. Shimming is eliminated and no jackscrew or
spacer blocks are required. The procedure for
leveling is described below:
PRELIMINARY lEVELING
l. Cross-leveling is checked by placing a precision
level on the machined surface on the top of the
main frame end plate nearest the laser head,
and using the jackscrews and shims provided to
make adjustments.
2. Longitudinal level is checked on the top of the
X-Axis guide way. Adjust as described above.
FINAl lEVEliNG
1. Use a 15" precision spirit level with a sensitivity
of .0005"/ft.
2. Place the level on the top of the gantry and
position the gantry at X= 0.
3. The top of the gantry is not machined.
Therefore, it will be necessary to shim one or
both ends of the level to establish a reference
reading and make the level sit solidly in place.
Paper shims can be used for this purpose.
4. Observe the position of the bubble while slowly
jogging the gantry from X = 0 to X = 120.
Maximum deviation is one division of the level
(.0005/ft.) from end-to-end. This ensures that
the frame is not in a twist. Make adjustments
as described above, using jackscrews to add or
remove shims.
5. When Step 4 is complete, lightly tighten anchor
nuts and recheck level as specified in Step 4.
6.
Tighten the anchor nuts with light hand
pressure on the wrench so as not to crush the
stud isolation washer. Secure the anchor nuts
with locknuts provided as shown on the
Foundation Plan drawing.
7. Repeat Step 4 as a final level check.
INITIAl lUBRICATION
Machines are fully lubricated before leaving the
factory. Unusual circumstances, such as storage
for more than one month from shipment date will
require initial lubrication per chart in Section 9 of
this manual.
ElECTRICAL CONNECTION
Each Laser customer is supplied a complete set of
Foundation Plan drawings prior to machine
shipment. The The electrical load requirements
and connection points are called out on these

drawings. Be certain that a suitably sized wire is
brought to the main disconnect and the proper
voltage is supplied.
The CL-7 Laser standard electrical input is 460
volt, 3 phase and 50/60 hertz. The machine must
be properly grounded in accordance with National
Electric Code NFPA 70, Sections 250-81, 83,84 and
89. CINCINNATI INCORPORATED recommends
using an individual electrode per Section 250-83
(C) to avoid interference from other equipment.
Do not start the· machine until thoroughly reading
the SAFETY section of this manual and a
CINCINNATI INCORPORATED
Service Represent-
ative is present.

SAFETY IS EVERYONE•s JOB
The CINCINNATI CNC Laser Center manufactured
by CINCINNATI INCORPORATED has been designed
to meet the highest order of reliability and ease of
operator use. This system has been certified under
Federal Regulations 21 CFR, subpart J, as a Class
IV Laser product as required by the Federal
Radiation Control for Health and Safety Act of 1968.
This certification is on file with the Food and Drug
Administration Center for Devices and Radiological
Health Division, Laser Products Section, Silver
Springs, Maryland 20910.
CINCINNATI INCORPORATED recommends the cus-
tomer read and understand the requirements of the
American National Standard for safe use of Lasers,
ANSI Z136.l. This is available from the American
National Standards Institute, 1430 Broadway, New
York, NewYork 10018.
For additional safety information we recommend:
• Securing applicable safety data from the National
Safety Council, 425 North Michigan Avenue,
Chicago, Illinois 60611 and Laser Institute of
America, 5151 Monroe Street, Toledo, Ohio
42623.
• Determining your responsibilities under your
state and local safety codes.
" Requesting assistance from the loss prevention
department of your workmen's compensation
carrier.
Personnel responsible for your Laser Center opera-
tor training program, maintenance, and manufac-
turing operations must read and understand this
safety section and operator's manual. No one
should set-up, operate or maintain this Laser
Center until they thoroughly understand it and
know how to do their job safely.
INTRODUCTION TO LASER SAFETY
The laser is an intense, highly directional beam of
light that, if directed, reflected or focused upon an
object, will be partially absorbed. This raises the
temperature of the surface and/ or the interior of
the object, which can potentially cause an alteration
or deformation of the material. These properties,
which have been applied to laser material process-
ing, can also cause adverse biological effects in
human tissue.
The CINCINNATI CNC Laser Center operates in the
far-infrared region, which :i.s invisible and has high
heat energy. The beam emitted has a wavelength of
10.6 ~m (micrometers).
A BRIEF DiSCUSSION ON RADIATION
Radiation is defmed in Webster's as "energy radiated
in the form of waves or particles". Radiation is a
form of energy emitted from a wide range of
sources, some man-made and some natural. The
electromagnetic spectrum covers those forms of
energy with wavelengths of approximately 10-11
meters to 107 meters. That corresponds to frequen-
cies of approximately 1022 hertz to approximately
1000 hertz.
All forms of electromagnetic radiation travel at the
speed of light, but at differing frequencies. The
wavelength of such a wave is inversely proportional
to the frequency, and often a particular type of radi-
ation is· described in terms of its wavelength rather
than its frequency.
The energy transmitted by such radiation is also
related to its frequency - the higher the frequency,
the greater the energy. The energy of.radiation
tends to interfere with the internal energy that
holds atoms together as molecules. If the energy of
a ray of radiation is great enough, it will attract
electrons away from an atom or add additional elec-
trons to it.
Radiation that lacks the energy to deform atoms,
(non-ionizing) radiation, can still cause bodily harm
by raising the temperature of the body tissue the
radiation contacts with the energy it imparts. If this
tissue is the hardened, dead-cell tissue of the outer
skin, it does little harm. It may produce reddening
of the tissue and mild soreness. However, if that
same radiation energy gets inside the body to less
well-protected tisSIUe, the tissue may not only be
heated, but may become damaged as well. The eyes
are also very susceptible to radiation energy. The
cells of the cornea and the retina are easily
destroyed and must always be protected from radi-
ated energy. Ordinary industrial type safety glasses
will provide this protection.
Figure 3-1 is a chart of that portion of the electro-
magnetic spectrum pertinent to our discussion. The
area the CINCINNATI CL-7 LASER operates in is
located between 3x10-5 and 3x10-6 meter wave-
length. This brief introduction has been prepared to
alleviate any unwarranted worries regarding laser
radiation safety.
SAFETY STANDARDS
Research studies, along with an understanding of
the hazards of sunlight and conventional, man-
made light sources have also permitted scientists to
establish safe exposure limits for nearly all types of
laser radiation. These limits are generally referred to

FREQUENCY WAVELENGTH
(hertz) (meters)
- 1022
3x1 0"
14
-
-
1021
3x1 0"
13
-
~Gamma
-
1020
3x1 0"
12
-rays
-
1019
3x1o-
11
-<
X-rays
-
1018
3x1 0"
10
-Ultraviolet
-
1017
3x1o·9 -rays
-
1016
3x1o·8 -
Visible light ·(380-780 {
nanometers wavelength) · _
1015
3x1o·7
-"""
I
-
1014
3x1o·6 -
~INCINNAll
Lasers
-
~Infrared
CNCLASER --.·J
-
1013
3x1o·5 -rays
-
1012
3x1o·4 -
-
1011
3x1o·3
_.,;
-
1010
3x1o·2 -
~Microwave
-109
3x1 o·
1 -
FM broadcast band -( -108 3 -
~,
Radio -frequency
-107 30 -(RF) waves
AM broadcast band
-{
(535-1605 kilohertz) -106 3x102 -
-105 3x103 -
Telephone { ~
104 3x104 -
103 3x105
f-
Commercial electric --=
100 3x106
1-
power (60 hertz) -10 3x107
.__
Figure 3-1 -Electromagnetic spectrum
3-2

as Maximum Permissible Exposures (MPE's) by
laser safety specialists. In many cases, it is unnec-
essary to make use of MPE's directly. The past
experience gained in millions of hours of laser use
in the laboratory and in industry has permitted the
development of a system of laser hazard categories.
Each laser is placed into one of at least four sepa-
rate classes, or risk categories. The safety measures
to reduce or eliminate accidents depend u_pon which
class of laser is being used.
There are a variety of laser safety standards. These
include regulations of the Federal Govemment, and
of several state and local govemments. Additionally
there are non-regulatory standards, such as the
ones of the American National Standards Institute
(ANSI) and of the American Conference of
Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH). On
the international scene, the World Health
Organization (WHO) has laser safety guidelines, and
the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)
has been developing laser safety standards. Of the
standards that apply to users, the ANSI standard
Zl36.1 is probably the most important and most
often quoted. It provides information on how to
classify lasers for safety, laser safety calculations
and measurements, and laser hazard control mea-
sures.
LASER HAZARD CLASSIFICATION
As previously indicated, laser systems can be
grouped into at least four primary categories to
indicate relative potential risk:
Class I - A class I laser is considered safe based
upon current medical knowledge. This class
includes all lasers or laser systems which can-
not emit levels of optical radiation above the
exposure limits for the eye under any exposure
conditions inherent in the design of the laser
product. There may be a more hazardous laser
embedded in the enclosure of the Class I prod-
uct, but no harmful laser radiation can escape
the enclosure.
Class II - A class II laser or laser system must emit
a visible laser beam, which by its very bright
nature will be too dazzling to stare into.
Momentary viewing is not considered hazardous
since the upper radiant power limit on this type
of device is 1 mW which corresponds to the total
beam power entering the eye for a momentary
exposure of 0.25 second that is just safe (i.e.,
the MPE for a 0.25 second exposure).
Class III - A class III laser or laser system can emit
any wavelength, but it cannot produce a haz-
ardous diffuse reflection unless focused or
viewed for extended periods at close range. It is
also not considered a fire hazard or a serious
skin hazard. Any CW (continuous wave) laser
3-3
that is not class I or class II is a class III device
if its output power is 0.5 W or less. Since the
output beam of such a laser is definitely haz-
ardous for intrabeam viewing, control measures
center on eliminating this possibility.
Class N -A class N laser or laser system is any
that exceeds the output limits (Accessible
Emission Limits, AEL's) of a class III device. As
would be expected, these lasers inay be either a
fire
and skin hazard/ or a diffuse reflection haz-
ard. Very stringent control measures are
required for a class IV laser or laser system.
CONTROL MEASURES
The CINCINNATI CNC Laser Center has been
designed and manufactured using the highest engi-
neering control measures practical, however, even
these high standards have limitations. Laser safety
requirements call for administrative and procedural
controls to be incorporated in the use of lasers in
order tQ minimize or eliminate the potential of per-
sonal inju:ry during laser operation.
The position of Laser Safety O.tficer (LSO) must be
established within the management organization of
a company using a laser cutting machine. This per-
son has the responsibility and authority to monitor
and enforce the control of laser hazards. He or she
should have the knowledge to effectively evaluate
and control hazards involved in laser cutting. The
LSO is responsible for requiring written standard
operating, maintenance and service procedures for
the laser center. These procedures should be kept
at the laser center for reference by operating main-
tenance and service personnel.
Continued education and training for operating
maintenance and service personnel is mandatory
for an adequate laser safety program to exist. The
Laser Safety Officer should see to it that personnel
involved in various aspects of laser operation have
been trained to a level commensurate with the level
of potential hazards to which they may be exposed.
OPERATING PER~NNEL
These people are responsible for the productive use
of the laser cutting center over the full range of its
intended function. These persons should be thor-
oughly familiar with all operating controls, adjust-
ments and hazards associated with their function.
MAINTENANCE PERSONNEL
These individuals are responsible and should be
thoroughly trained in the performance of adjust-
ments or procedures specified in the User
Information manuals provided by the manufacturer
of the laser center. The functions performed are to
insure the intended performance of the laser center
is realized.

SERVICE PERSONNEL
These individuals are responsible for the perfor-
mance of procedures and adjustments described in
the manufacturer's service manual. The duties of a
service person requires a higher level of training
and education than that of the maintenance func-
tion, however, a service individual does not neces-
sarily include the duties or responsibilities of a
maintenance person.
A strong commitment from management must exist
in order for an effective safety program to be estab-
lished with personnel involved in the use of the
CINCINNATI CNC Laser Center. Additional informa-
tion concerning this topic can be located in the
American National Standard Z136.1-1986. Refer to
Appendix D of this standard for a guide for organiz-
ing and implementing a laser safety and training
program.
EXPLANATION OF LASER RADIATION
Light is a form of energy that is released from indi-
vidual atoms or molecules in a substance. To
understand how a laser works, it is necessary to
know something about the nature of atoms and
how they interact with light and other forms of
energy.
Every atom is a storehouse of energy. The amount
of energy in an atom depends in part on the motion
of the electrons that orbit the atom's nucleus. When
an atom absorbs energy, the energy levels of the
electrons increase, and the atom is said to be excit-
ed. The atoms of a substance become excited when
they absorb heat, light, or other forms of energy
that pass through the substance. An excited atom
can return to its normal energy level by releasing its
excess energy in the form of light. This release of
light is called spontaneous emission.
In spontaneous emission, excited atoms release
light irregularly. As a result, the light has different
frequencies, different
phases, and travels in differ-
ent directions. Light released in this way is called
incoherent light. Such light is produced by the sun
and by ordinary electric light bulbs;
Excited atoms also may release light systematically.
This kind of release, called stimulated emission, is
the main process that takes place in a laser.
Stimulated emission occurs when the energy
released from one atom interacts with another atom
that is still excited. The interaction stimulates the
excited atom into releasing its own energy as light.
Most of the light produced by stimulated emission
has the same frequency and same phase as the
stimulating light. It also travels in the saine. direc-
tion, and so it combines with and amplifies the trig-
gering light. Such light is called coherent radiation.
3-4
LASER TYPES.
There are three major kinds of lasers based on their
lasing medium: solid lasers, gas lasers, and liquid
lasers.
The CINCINNATI CNC Laser Center model CL-7 is a
gas type laser. Gas lasers use a gas or a mixture of
gases as their light-amplifying· substance. In most
cases, the gas is contained in a glass or quartz tube
from one to three feet (30 to 91 centimeters) long.
Such gas lasers have been built in glass tubes mea-
suring up to 30 feet (9 meters) in length. Gas lasers
have several power sources, including chemical
reactions, electric current, electron beams, and
ultraviolet rays. Most gas lasers, produce a continu-
ous beam of light. They also can produce beams of
higher average power than solid lasers can. They
can do so because they are cooled by the gas as it
flows through the tube. The light from a gas laser
has a narrower frequency range than the light from
a solid laser.
As an option, a second laser can be added to the
CL-7 CNC Laser Center. This is the HeNe laser,
which is a gas laser using helium-neon gases to
produce a visible red beam. Due to the visible
nature of this beam and its power level, it is desig-
nated as a Class II laser product. Class II levels of
laser radiation are considered a chronic viewing
hazard and thus the warning not to stare into the
red beam as given on our warning sign.
HAZARDS
EVE HAZARDS
The eye hazards represent a potential for injury to
several different parts of the eye, generally depend-
ing upon which eye part absorbs the most radiant
energy.
Laser radiation in the far-infrared region with wave
lengths of 3J.Im to 1 millimeter will be absorbed in
the front surface of the eye. Thus, if the eye is not
protected, it may receive damage to the cornea and
lens from direct or reflected laser beam exposure.
Therefore, eye protection must be worn by all oper-
ation, maintenance and service personnel while
working at the CINCINNATI CNC Laser Center. The
type and style of eye protection to use should be
worked out with the supplier of your shop eye pro-
tection program. In general, the normal safety
glasses with side shields used in metal working
shops will provide all the protection necessary. It is
the user's responsibility to establish and enforce an
eye protection program.
SKIN HAZARDS
Laser radiation striking the skin is reflected,
absorbed, and transmitted; the percentage of each
depends upon the characteristics of the skin at the
II

wavelengths of concern. Effects on the skin from
absorbed radiation may vary from mild redness to
blistering and/ or charring, depending upon the
total energy absorbed and the rate at which it is
absorbed. Unnecessary exposure of the skin to laser
radiation should be avoided regardless of the level
of radiant energy.
The CINCINNATI CNC Laser Center has beeri tested
and found to have no detectable x-ray emissions
and related hazards. In general, the hazards pre-
sented by the CINCINNATI CNC Laser Center, which
operates in the far-infrared.(invisible light) region,
will
be severe burns, lacerations and possible
amputation if members of the body come in contact
with the direct beam or close to reflected beams of
high energy. The design of the Laser Center pro-
vides engineered protection from these hazards for
personnel while properly using this equipment. This
basic design should not be altered or modified in
any manner.
ASSOCIATED HAZARDS
ELECTRICAL
Because of the high electrical energies used to gen-
erate the laser beam in the CINCINNATI CNC Laser
Center, electrocution hazards are possibly a far
greater danger to personnel than those of the laser
beam itself. This is why no access to high electrical
energy
is possible without going through a safety
interlocked door or pqnel. Before any maintenance
or service is undertaken, you should ensure that
the laser component has been isolated from the
electrical service and all other precautions taken as
prescribed in this manual and the other component
manuals provided.
CAUTION
HIGH VOLTAGE OF UP TO 30,000 VOLTS IS PRE·
SENT IN THE LASER HEAD AND POWER SUPPLY
CABINET. CONTACT WITH VOLTAGE CARRYING
CONDUCTORS IS NOT NECESSARY, AS ENERGY
AT THIS POTENTIAL CAN JUMP TO A CLOSE
BODY AT GROUND POTENTIAL, SUCH AS YOUR·
SELF, CAUSING IMMEDIATE DEATH. DO NOT
ENTER ANY HIGH VOLTAGE AREA WITHOUT
FIRST DISCONNECTING POWER. REFER TO
LASER MANUFACTURER'S SERVICE MANUAL
BEFORE ENTERING THIS CABINET.
FIRE
Fire hazard is present in the processing area
through interaction with the laser beam and materi-
als
present in the work area. Additional fire hazards
exist in the electrical controls enclosed in the Laser
Center cabinets. Appropriate fire equipment should
3-5
be available and the purpose of such equipment
should be understood by operating per~onnel. This
equipment should be provided to extinguish or con-
trol small fires only. Follow basic fire fighting proce-
dures.
FUME AND DUST
WARNING -POISONOUS FUMEs MAY BE FORMED
BY LASER CUTIING. DO NOT BREATHE FUMES.
Use only with adequate ventilation or respirators.
The ventilation requirements should be determined
by a professional qualified to assess ventilation con-
trol requirements.
The CL-7 Laser is equipped with an exhaust system
that draw$ air down from the cutting surface. The
optimal exhaust rate for your specific application of
the CL-7 Laser should be determined by a profes-
sional qualified to assess ventilation systems.
The OSHA-required Material Safety Data Sheet for
the material being processed should be reviewed to
aid in determining the nature and composition of
the fumes being released. The need and subsequent
design of a device to eliminate poisonous emissions
from
the ventilation exhaust should be made by a
professional qualified to evaluate control devices.
Finally, the presence of personnel exposures to
fumes should be determined by a professional qual-
ified to
evaluate workplace exposures to chemical
and physical hazards.
Operation of the CL-7 Laser and ventilation sys-
tem/control device may subject you to local state
and federal environmental and occupational protec-
tion laws and regulations. A professional qualified
to assess environmental and occupational protec-
tion laws and regulations must be consulted before
the CL-7 Laser is installed and operated.
'GAS STORAGE
Various gases are used in the laser cutting process
to assist in the actual cutting or to perform auxil-
iary functions. The gases most commonly used are
oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, helium, and com-
pressed air. These gases are commonly·available in
compressed gas cylinders. Oxygen, nitrogen, and
helium are also available as cryogenic liquid.
Carbon dioxide, while not classified as a c:ry"Ogenic,
is also widely available in liquid form. The discus-
sion below will address safety consideration when
storing and handling compressed gas cylinders.
Later in this section will be a discussion on safety
precautions concerning cryogenic liquids.
COMPRESSED GAS CYLINDERS
HANDLING
Serious accidents may result from the misuse,
abuse, or mishandling of compressed gas cylinders.
Workers
assigned to the handling of cylinders under

pressure should be properly ~rained and should
work only under competent supervision. Observing
a few basic rules will help control hazards in. the
handling of compressed gas cylinders.
., Because of their shape, smooth surface, and
weight, cylinders are difficult to carry by hand.
Cylinders may be rolled on their bottom edge but
never dragged. Cylinders weighing more than 40
pounds (18.2 kg) (total) shall be transported on a
hand or motorized truck, suitably secured to
keep them from falling.
.. Do not lift compressed gas cylinders with an
electromagnet. Where cylinders must· be handled
by a crane or derrick, carry them in a cradle or
suitable platform and take extreme care that they
are not dropped or bumped. Do not use slings.
" Do not drop cylinders or let them strike each
other violently.
"' Do not use cylinders for rollers, supports, or any
purpose other than to contain gas.
.. Do not tamper with safety devices in valves or on
cylinders.
" When empty, cylinders are to be returned to the
vendor, mark them EMPTY or MT with chalk.
Close the valves and replace the valve protection
caps, if the cylinder is designed to accept a cap.
., Always consider cylinders as being full and han-
dle them with corresponding care. Accidents have
resulted when containers under partial pressure
were thought to be empty.
STORING
Cylinders should be stored in an upright position in
a safe, dry, well-ventilated place prepared and
reserved for the purpose. Flammable substances,
such as oil and volatile liquids, should not be stored
in the same area. Cylinders should not be stored
near elevators, gangways, stairwells, or other places
where they can be knocked down or damaged.
., Oxygen cylinders should not be stored within 20
ft. (6 m) of cylinders containing flammable gases
or near the location of other highly combustible
materials.
o Cylinders are not designed for temperatures in
excess of 130°F (54°C). Accordingly, they should
not be stored near sources of heat, such as radi-
ators or furnaces, or near highly flammable sub-
stances like gasoline.
e Cylinder storage should be planned so that cylin-
ders will be used in the order in which they are
received from the supplier. Empty and full cylin-
ders should be stored separately, with empty
cylinders being plainly identified as such to avoid
confusion. Group together empty cylinders which
have held the same contents.
USING
Safe procedures for the use of compressed gas
cylinders include:
<l Use cylinders in an upright position and secure
them against accidentally being knocked over.
@ Unless the cylinder valve is protected by a recess
in the head, keep the metal cap in place to pro-
tect the valve when the cylinder is not connected
for use. A blow on an unprotected valve might
cause gas under high pressure to escape .
"' Make sure the threads on a regulator or union
correspond to those on the cylinder valve outlet.
Do not force connections that do not fit.
"' Open cylinder valves slowly. A cylinder not pro-
vided with a handwheel valve should be opened
with a spindle key or a special vvrench or other
tool provided or approved by the gas supplier.
"' Do not use a cylinder of compressed gas without
a pressure reducing regulator attached to the
cylinder valve, except where cylinders are
attached to a manifold, in which case the regula-
tor will be attached to the manifold header.
"' Before making connection to a cylinder valve out-
let, "crack" the valve for an instant to dear the
opening of particles of dust or dirt. Always point
the valve and opening away from the body and
not toward anyone else.
<~> Use regulators and pressure gages only with
gases for which they are designed and intended.
Do not attempt to repair or alter cylinders,
valves, or attachments. This work should be done
only by the manufacturer.
@ Unless the cylinder valve has first been closed
tightly, do not attempt to stop a leak between
cylinder and regulator by tightening union nut.
.. Do not permit sparks, molten metal, electric cur-
rents, excessive heat, or flames to come in con-
tact with the cylinder or attachments .
., Never use oil or grease as a lubricant on valves or
attachments of oxygen cylinders. Keep oxygen
cylinders and fittings away from oil and grease,
and do not handle such cylinders or apparatus
with oily hands, gloves, or clothing.
.. Never use oxygen as a substitute for compressed
air. Use it only for the purpose for which it is
intended.
<~~ Before a regulator is removed from a cylinder
valve, close the cylinder valve and release the gas
from the regulator.
., Cylinder valves shall be closed when work is fin-
ished.