The Difference Between Continuous Wavelength Laser (CW) & Pulsed Laser

      When talking about lasers, it’s important to understand the difference between Continuous Wave (CW) lasers and Pulsed lasers:
 

1. CW Lasers:

   • What They Are: CW lasers emit a constant, steady beam of light that stays on until it’s turned off.
   • Use Cases: These lasers are known for their stability and consistent power output, making them ideal for industrial applications like high-speed welding. For example, they’re used in tasks like welding pressure sensors, airbag initiators, and battery tabs.

2. Pulsed Lasers:

   • What They Are: Pulsed lasers emit short bursts of light at regular intervals. Each pulse has a very high peak power, but the average power over time is lower.
   • Use Cases: Pulsed lasers are often used for tasks that require precision, like spot and seam welding, or in scientific testing, such as working with biological samples. They also have the ability to penetrate deeper into materials, which can be useful for building thicker layers in manufacturing processes.
      

     

     
      

      When choosing laser safety products, it’s crucial to know whether the laser you’re working with is a CW laser or a pulsed laser. Even if the average power of a CW laser and a pulsed laser is the same, the peak power of a pulsed laser can be much higher.