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Ted Mooney, P.E. RET
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for Metal Finishing 1989-2025
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Carbon removal after laser cutting
Does anyone have any ideas on how to remove carbon left behind on fiberglass/ceramic materials after laser cutting. The material in question is Rogers RO 4003.
Jj johnstonmicrocircuits - Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
2000
If it is pure carbon, you could use oxygen plasma to remove carbon or a high temp oxygen treatment. If it is a complex compound, a combination of chlorine and/or fluorine plasma or something similar may be needed in addition.
Mandar Sunthankar- Fort Collins, Colorado
2000
You may try a couple of things. Due to the temperatures associated with laser trimming and cutting, the type of carbon formed will have a tight bond to the structure surface. Try a 4% solution of sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide. Or, try one of the above in conjunction with 6% sodium hypochlorite. Neutralize with a mild acid. (Citric or phosphoric .5% by volume)
David Rayder- Halifax, NS, Canada
2001
You may want to switch to abrasive water jet cutting rather than laser. Just as fast with no heat to form carbon.
Ron Reed- Charlotte, North Carolina
July 29, 2008
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