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Lasers and Thermal Paper

Joined
Jan 25, 2013
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Hello All,

Hopefully you can help me out with a project I'm working on for a client.

I'm looking for a laser that will mark Thermal Paper in a line instead of a dot. Essentially I'm trying to trace an object on thermal paper using a laser line that sweeps/scans over the object and paper, and marks the paper that is exposed while leaving the covered paper white.

Does anyone know of a laser that is commercially available that can do this?

Thank you all in advance for your help!!

Thomas
 





Joined
Dec 31, 2012
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Any IR (infrared) laser should be able to do this. You'll most likely need a lab laser (one that plugs into the wall, and can run continuously) and you need to vary the output and tune it to the distance from the emitter to the paper so it doesn't burn the paper.

Google infrared laser diode, if that's what you want to use. It seems overkill to use a carbon dioxide laser for this. I'm guessing a laser diode is your best best for IR.

There will be safety issues using an IR laser. You'll need to make sure it is oriented and protected in a manner that its impossible to shine in anyone's eyes. Understand, scanning a laser across an object implies reflections. You'll need to protect any personnel from those reflections.

A bathroom heat lamp may be the safest and simplest alternative, although the edges of the image may not be as sharp as with a laser.
 
Joined
Jan 25, 2013
Messages
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Hi pschlosser,

Thanks for the reply. I purchased a <40mW Line Generator Infrared Laser Module (here), but it doesn't seem to make any marks on thermal paper, even when I hold the laser right up to it. Am I missing something?

The unit will be contained so that it's completely enclosed while in operation, but during this testing period I purchased goggles that are rated for IR laser protection.

I apologize for my lack of knowledge, and I really appreciate your help.
 




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