Galvanometer scanners, or galvo scanners for short, enable extremely fast and precise deflection of laser beams.

In industrial laser processing, they are a central element for dynamic processes such as laser cutting, welding, or additive manufacturing. As a supplier of high-precision beam deflection units, RAYLASE specializes in integrating galvano scanners with state-of-the-art digital control technology into demanding production processes – for maximum precision, speed, and system stability.

A galvanometer is originally an instrument for measuring small electrical currents. It uses the magnetic field generated by an electric current to produce a mechanical rotary motion that is proportional to the current.

In laser technology, the term usually refers to a precise electromechanical drive system that rotates a mirror to deflect the laser beam in a specific direction. In a scanning system, two of these drives are typically arranged orthogonally to each other in order to steer the beam in two dimensions.

Galvanometer scanners are characterized by their high dynamics, precise position control, and minimal inertia. This makes them ideal for applications where the laser beam must be moved quickly and with high repeatability, such as in marking, structuring, welding, or 3D printing.

Unlike classic CNC or linear systems, the motion of the laser beam is not achieved by physically moving the workpiece or the optics, but purely by moving small mirrors. This minimizes inertia and allows processing speeds in the millisecond range with maximum positional accuracy.

Laser technology has established itself as a key technology in modern industry. From material processing and medical technology to additive manufacturing, galvanometer scanners enable a wide range of applications in which precision, speed, and repeatability are crucial.

Use in battery manufacturing

In battery production, galvo scanners are indispensable for precise laser welding of cell connections or cutting electrode foils. Their ability to position laser beams dynamically and with pinpoint accuracy enables precise processing of sensitive materials while maintaining high productivity.

Use in the production of solar wafers

The production of solar cells and modules requires precise processing and minimal heat-affected zones. Galvanometer scanners enable precise laser cutting and efficient laser structuring of thin wafers, thereby helping to increase cell efficiency.

 Importance in additive manufacturing

In powder bed-based 3D printing (SLM/SLS), galvo scanners are used for selective melting of the material – precisely and layer by layer. They thus directly influence the detail resolution, surface quality, and construction speed in additive manufacturing. Optimal control of the galvo axes is therefore crucial for reproducible manufacturing quality.

RAYLASE integrates galvanometer scanners into high-precision scanning systems with coordinated optics, intelligent control, and optional process sensors. This results in modular units that are particularly powerful, flexible, and reliable in industrial manufacturing. 

High precision and speed

The scanning systems integrated at RAYLASE are based on digital control loops that enable fast and precise positioning of the laser beam. Thanks to a carefully coordinated combination of galvo drives, mirror materials, and control hardware, extremely dynamic processes can be realized. Users benefit from shorter cycle times, high repeatability, and excellent processing quality.

Flexibility in various applications

With their modular architecture, RAYLASE systems can be easily adapted to different laser types, wavelength ranges, and applications. Customers can choose from a wide range of mirror coatings, aperture sizes, and lens configurations. In combination with digital interfaces and application-specific tuning, the systems are ideal for applications such as cutting, welding, structuring, or additive manufacturing.

Reliability and durability

For use in industrial conditions, RAYLASE relies on robust, durable components and comprehensively qualified system integration.

This includes both mechanical precision and thermal stability through sophisticated cooling concepts. Integrated sensor technology, such as temperature monitoring, supports predictive maintenance and increases process reliability during operation. This makes the systems ideal for continuous use under the most demanding conditions.

RAYLASE is a technology-oriented integration partner for demanding laser applications. The galvanometer-based scanning systems are designed to integrate seamlessly into existing machine and system concepts, regardless of whether they are new developments or retrofit projects.

For every application, RAYLASE offers individually tailored combinations of mirrors, lenses, optical modules, and cooling concepts. Thanks to digital interfaces such as XY2-100, SL2-100, and RL3-100, the systems can be easily integrated into existing control architectures.

In addition, RAYLASE supports its customers with in-depth application knowledge and technical advice – from the early concept phase through simulation and testing to final commissioning. The result is a tailor-made solution that not only works optimally, but also remains stable and low-maintenance in the long term.

Are you planning to integrate a galvo-based scanning system into your production line or would you like to optimize existing processes in terms of precision and speed? Our experts will help you define the right combination of beam deflection, optics, and control for your specific application.

Contact the RAYLASE team for in-depth technical advice and find out how you can make your laser processes future-proof.