Using pure water in laser machine chillers is critical to ensure optimal performance, longevity, and safety. Here’s a breakdown of its role:
Why Use Pure Water in Laser Machine Chillers?
- Prevents Scaling and Mineral Deposits
- Tap or hard water contains minerals like calcium and magnesium.
- These minerals can accumulate in the cooling system, forming scale that reduces heat exchange efficiency and clogs internal channels.
- Corrosion Prevention
- Deionized (DI) or distilled water is free from salts and ions that cause electrochemical reactions, which lead to rust and corrosion in metal parts.
- Efficient Heat Transfer
- Pure water has consistent thermal conductivity and low conductivity, which ensures smooth heat dissipation from the laser source to the chiller.
- Maintains Laser Output Quality
- Overheating due to poor water quality can lead to beam instability, power fluctuations, or even damage to the laser components.
- Reduces Microbial Growth
- Contaminants in impure water promote bacterial or algal growth, leading to biofilm that clogs tubes and affects flow rate.
- Pure water reduces or eliminates this risk.
✅ Recommended Types of Water
- Deionized Water (DI Water)
- LCM (Low Conductivity) Water for ultra-sensitive systems
⚠️ What to Avoid
- Tap water
- Mineral water
- Bottled drinking water
- Any water with high Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)
💡 Pro Tips
- Regularly check conductivity of water in the chiller (<10 µS/cm is ideal for most CO₂ and fiber lasers).
- Change the water every 1 to 3 months or as recommended by the laser/chiller manufacturer.
- Use algaecide or biocide if the system runs in a warm environment to further prevent microbial growth.
