RDTech
0
- Joined
- Apr 6, 2010
- Messages
- 265
- Points
- 28
For all lasers I have built, either with Axixz, O-like or custom, I have used a thermally conductive / electrically isolated potting material for heat dissipation. This is, IMHO how to keep laser diodes running longer. When I keep laser modules / pointers unpotted, there is an air gapp which does not allow adequate thermal conduction. Most of the heat from laser diodes is dissipated out the rear and through the pin attached to grounded housing. Addionally, potting the driver circuit right next to the LD irself may add to the laser diode temperature. I usually purchase 60g epoxyies from Arctic Silver. NOT the silver adhesive, but slow or medium cure Arctic Alumina. It has worked for years. The only issue wit this method is that your laser diode and host/heatsink are bonded Permanently.