Class 4 Laser Enclosures: A Quick Guide
If the laser you’re working with can cut through steel, then it should be no surprise that it can also harm your workers. That same power can burn skin, blind the eyes, or even start fires, all within a matter of seconds. As a result, high-powered lasers like class 4 systems should never operate without the right enclosures. In this article, we’ll cover what you need to know about class 4 laser enclosures, what to look for in one, some of their many uses, and more.
What Are Class 4 Laser Enclosures?
A class 4 laser enclosure is a safety barrier that is designed to contain the intense light produced by high-powered lasers. They’re made from tough materials like powder-coated steel, anodized aluminum, and polycarbonate, among others. The main purpose of them is to protect workers near the lasers.
Most if not all of these enclosures will have safety interlocks as well. If anyone attempts to open the enclosure while the laser is active, the laser system will automatically power down. This and other safety features work together to minimize risks as much as possible.
Most of these enclosures, especially in the United States, adhere to ANSI Z136.1 laser safety standards, and often have CE or ISO certifications as well.
Why Use a Class 4 Laser Enclosure?
As we’ve mentioned already, class 4 laser enclosures are created for safety reasons. Light can easily bounce off surfaces or leak through small openings, which is why a robust enclosure helps prevent the following:
- Eye injuries and skin exposure
- Potential fire hazards
- Unauthorized access
- Violations of OSHA or other laser safety rules
Though this is not an exhaustive list, it should give you some ideas as to the types of situations you should want to avoid.
What to Look for in a Good Enclosure?
If you’re looking to create an effective laser enclosure, you’ll want to make sure it has:
- Laser-blocking materials, especially laser-safe windows and panels.
- Interlock systems that shut down the laser if the door is opened.
- Ventilation, as lasers often generate fumes.
- Compliance with ANSI, CE, or ISO.
- Hazard signs.
Optional add-ons like cameras, sensors, and automation integration can also be helpful depending on your setup.
Who Uses Class 4 Laser Enclosures?
There are many industries that use such high-powered lasers, but some of the most common users are in:
- Manufacturing
- Research labs
- Aerospace and defense
- Electronics
The Bottom Line
Class 4 lasers are powerful, but dangerous. If you’re using one at your place of business, an enclosure is a necessity in protecting your team. It can also help you stay compliant, and will reduce the overall chances of accidents.
Interested in creating class 4 laser enclosures at your location? Reach out to the experts at MachineEnclosure.com today for a quote on new spaces.
FAQs About Class 4 Laser Enclosures
1. Can a class 4 laser enclosure be built around existing equipment?
In most cases, they can be. Modular enclosures are built with prefabricated parts that fit together, and such parts can be brought in the building through regular entrances, so it’s often a fairly straightforward process.
2. Do enclosures affect laser performance or accuracy?
No, absolutely not. A well-designed enclosure won’t interfere with laser operation. And in fact, it can even improve consistency by removing dust, controlling airflow, and reducing other environmental variables.
3. How long does it take to install a class 4 laser enclosure?
Installation times will always depend on the size and complexity of the building. However, modular enclosures can often be installed in a few days, and all without any major interruptions to your normal operations.
4. Can I move an enclosure after it’s been installed?
Yes, absolutely, especially if the enclosure is modular. It’s fairly simple to disassemble and reassemble the structure elsewhere if need be.
