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4.2. Cleaning and Inspection
4.2. Cleaning and Inspection
There are no elements on the AGV3D that require lubrication.
Before you use a cleaning solvent on any part of the AGV3D, blow away small particles and dust with
nitrogen or, less preferably, clean, dry, compressed air.
Use isopropyl alcohol on a lint-free cloth to clean any external metal surface of the AGV3D.
4.2.1. Protective Windows
Optical surfaces that are contaminated with dirt and debris result in increased absorption of laser
radiation. Over time, this contamination can cause the optical surfaces to absorb enough heat to cause
permanent burn damage. There are several different kinds of optical surface contamination:
Airborne particles in the ambient atmosphere – dust, grease, etc.
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Products from the laser process – vapors, back spatter, burned-in particles, etc.
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Organic contamination – particles produced by talking, coughing, or sneezing near the optical sur-
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faces.
Wherever possible, protect the exposed optics to avoid contamination. However, since contamination
cannot be completely avoided, you will have to periodically clean the optical system. Regularly inspect
and clean the optical surfaces to help prevent permanent damage.
WARNING: Contamination from the laser process can cause irreversible damage to the
optical surfaces. To help minimize contamination, use an exhaust or vacuum system.
Optical materials and coatings are relatively soft substances and incorrect cleaning techniques will result
in surface damage and drastically reduced component lifetime. The cleaning procedure for the AGV3D is
intended to help prolong the component lifetime.
IMPORTANT: Wear clean, powder-free gloves when you handle optical components.
DANGER: Make sure that the laser is set in the "off" position and secured against
accidental operation before you inspect or do maintenance to the focal lens.
WARNING: If the focal lens does not have a protective glass window, take extra care when
you clean the focal lens.
Cleaning Procedure
1. Use compressed nitrogen or clean, dry, oil-less air to remove any loose particles from the surface.
2. Moisten an appropriate lint-free lens cleaning cloth with isopropyl alcohol.
3. Fold the cloth over such that one folded (straight) edge will serve as the leading edge during the
wiping motion.
4. Place the folded (straight) edge of the cloth onto one end of the optical surface. Applying very min-
imal pressure, slowly move the cloth over the optical component to the opposite end. Never bear
down hard, scrub, or wipe in a circular motion when cleaning an optical surface.
5. Remove any liquid residue with a dry lint-free lens cleaning cloth or by blow it off in one direction
with compressed nitrogen or clean, dry, oil-less air.
6. Repeat this procedure, using a new lint-free lens cleaning cloth for each repetition, until the sur-
face is completely clean.
Contact Aerotech if you need a replacement Protective Window.
54
AGV3D Hardware Manual
www.aerotech.com
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