Helium-cadmium lasers for high-precision applications in science and industry

The Helium Cadmium Laser The HeCd laser is a classic gas laser characterized by its exceptional spectral stability and high coherence length. Despite the increasing popularity of modern solid-state and diode lasers, the helium-cadmium laser remains an indispensable tool for precise scientific and industrial applications due to its unique properties – especially in the UV (325 nm) and blue (441.6 nm) wavelength range.

The HeCd lasers available from Soliton are characterized by their air-cooled design, low-maintenance technology, and consistent output power. High beam quality (TEM₀₀ or multimodal), stable polarization, and optional fiber optic coupling—even in the UV range—enable versatile laser applications in various areas of research, production, and analytics.

Technical features

The Helium Cadmium Laser uses the emission of cadmium ions in a helium carrier gas to generate coherent light with a very narrow linewidth. This property makes it ideal for measurement methods where spectral purity and stability are essential. The lasers are available with an average power of up to 100 mW in the UV range and up to 180 mW in the visible blue range.

Particularly noteworthy are the stable polarization of the beam and the high coherence length, which is essential for interferometric measurement methods and holographic applications. The option of fiber optic coupling allows the laser beam to be guided safely and flexibly to the desired location.

Typical areas of application

The Helium Cadmium Laser is used in the following applications, among others:

Holography and production of holographic gratings
Raman spectroscopy and fluorescence excitation
Stereolithography (rapid prototyping)
Microscopy with two wavelengths (UV and blue)
Phase-modulated spectroscopy
Mask production and exposure in semiconductor technology
Photo-crosslinking in biochemical processes
CD mastering and optical storage technology

Due to its high long-term stability and reliable performance, the helium-cadmium laser is particularly suitable for use in research laboratories, universities, industrial development departments and precise optical manufacturing.