Silicon or copper?

[CNCadmin]

I've been using silicon reflective mirrors for my C02 laser and I'm considering going to copper, the reflectiing is slightly better but is their any special care to maintain the mirrors will I see a big improvement to total power out-put?

[MacGyver]

In order of reflectivity (high to low): AR-coated copper, coated gold, and dielectric enhanced silver on silicon. If he mirror is properly coated, there should be no maintenance required other than occasionally wiping the face gently with a cleaning cloth.

[laser3kw]

dragging a acetone lens tissue across them is typical cleaning. When they get alittle heavier smog, a good copper polish (like brasso) gentle rubbed to break the haze then acetone cleaning. A protected bellow cover over the beam path with a positive pressure blower guards against smoke and contaminates. It also extends mirror maintenance intervals and life. Watch for sweating in high humidity.

[Laser.Tech]

Paul, at your power levels you shouldn't see any performance difference between the different mirror types. I would just go with whatevers CHEAPEST.

Laser.Tech