B8961044 GEM ASSEMBLY 3.5" OD TUBE

The PRC Gas Enhancement Module (GEM) filter is a gas filtration device that continuously improves the quality of the laser gas by filtering water vapor and other substances from the laser gas circulating inside the laser. Contaminants can enter the laser from the gas supply bottles and lines, through small leaks in the vacuum system, or outgassing from seals, lubricants and non-metals used in the laser. Contaminants in the Laser gas reduce the efficiency and stability of the laser system. By removing the contaminants, gas consumption can be reduced and overall Laser efficiency is improved.

How It Works

The media inside the GEM filter is porous and is sized and conditioned to trap contaminants unique to CO2 Laser systems. Once the GEM captures the contaminant, it remains trapped in the porous cell structure. The GEM unit will continue to function until the remaining open space in the porous structure of the filter media becomes filled. Once this saturation point is reached, the media has become saturated with contaminants and must be replaced. Typically, GEM filters will last from 5000 to 7500 hours before requiring replacement.

How do I know if my GEM needs to be replaced?

Symptoms of a saturated GEM filter can vary depending on the Laser Power Level and application, but some of the more common symptoms are listed below

• Frequent DOC faults when running at higher laser powers for long periods
• Long warm-up times are necessary to get a stable output after the Laser has been shut down for weekends or extended periods
• Needing to run the laser at higher gas consumption rates to maintain Laser efficiency. A saturated GEM unit could be responsible if the discharge current rises steadily during long runs near rated power. This is especially true if the vacuum leak rate for the system is good.

Things that shorten GEM Lifetimes are:

• Leaving the GEM media exposed to atmosphere. This will result in the GEM becoming saturated with water vapor.
• Poor gas quality or leaky gas feed equipment. One bad bottle of gas could contain enough contaminant to significantly load the GEM filter.
• Laser operation in very humid climates.
• Frequent opening of the Laser cavity for service or optics changes.

The cost of replacing a GEM filter will quickly be recovered with better laser performance, lower gas consumption, and better electrical efficiency.

Manufactured by LSN in Charleston, South Carolina.