Hi folks, I have a G.Weike LC1490 with a Reci W6 tube. I bought the machine second hand a bit over a year ago. I am guestimating that the laser tube is about 2 to 3 years old. I have been using for on average for a couple of hour per day over the last year or so.
In the last week or two, the cutting ability and apparent power output of the tube has diminished.
I recently bought a 200W digital power meter from Cloudray Laser.
When taking measurements at the end of the CO2 laser tube, (before the mirrors) I am getting a lot of variation in readings. I have been keeping the physical distance from the end of the tube the same, and letting the meter cool down for about a half an hour between each reading as well, so the conditions are the same for each reading.
On the same day, over a 2 hour period, I took three readings. They were as follows:
50W, 80W, and 85W.
All of these readings were with 40mA tube current.
This is a RECI W6 tube, (130W), it is about 2 - 3 years old. Is this a sign that the tube is on it's way out and needs replacing?
Thanks in advance.
Brett
Inconsistent power meater readings
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