Laser Safety
3
The New Wave Research Tempest Nd:YAG laser is a high performance
laser that requires care in handling. As with any high power laser system,
it is important that every person who works with the laser is trained in
the safe operation. It is also important that each person who works in the
area is aware of necessary procedures to safely turn the laser off.
The Gemini-PIV laser system is a specific configuration of the Tempest
designed for particle image velocimetry (PIV). The Gemini-PIV consists
of two IR laser heads combined in a single package with a second
harmonic generator and two discrete power supplies. All information for
the Tempest applies to the Gemini-PIV, so the Gemini PIV will be
inferred by reference.
The Tempest Nd:YAG laser generates high energy infrared radiation that
can pose serious risks to eye safety. Infrared radiation is invisible to the
eye, so the hazard is not immediately obvious, but the radiation can be
focused onto the retina. For this reason it is very important to always
wear safety glasses and to be aware of any possible reflections.
WARNING: The New Wave Research Tempest Nd:YAG
laser is a Class 4 high power laser whose beam is, by definition, a
safety and fire hazard. Take all necessary precautions to prevent
accidental exposure to both direct and reflected beams. DIFFUSE
AS WELL AS SPECULAR BEAM REFLECTIONS CAN CAUSE
SEVERE EYE AND SKIN DAMAGE.
BECAUSE THE 1064, 355, AND 266 NM OUTPUT BEAMS OF A
ND:YAG LASER ARE INVISIBLE THEY ARE EXTREMELY
DANGEROUS. Infrared radiation passes easily through the cornea,
which focuses it on the retina of the eye, where it can cause
instantaneous permanent damage including blindness. AVOID EYE
AND SKIN EXPOSURE TO DIRECT OR SCATTERED
RADIATION.
CAUTION: USE OF CONTROLS, ADJUSTMENTS OR
PERFORMANCE OF PROCEDURES OTHER THAN THOSE
SPECIFICIED HEREIN MAY RESULT IN HAZARDOUS
RADIATION EXPOSURE.
Follow the instructions contained in this manual for proper
installation and safe operation of your laser. Wear protective eye
wear; selection depends on the energy and wavelength of the laser
beam as well as operating conditions. Consult ANSI, ACGIH or
OSHA standards for guidance.
Introduction
Optical Safety
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