Precision Galvo Scanners for Laser Processing

CRS 4 KHz Resonant Scanner

CRS 4 KHz Resonant Scanner

Sold by: Novanta Photonics Ships from: United States
Specifications
Max Aperture (Beam) Size: 12 mm
Wavelength: 351 nm (UV), 355 nm (UV), 400 nm (Violet/Blue), 405 nm (Violet/Blue), 527 nm (green), 532 nm (green), 800 nm (near IR), 810 nm (near IR), 1054 nm (IR), 1064 nm (IR), 1070 nm (IR), Other Broadband, Other (see Data Sheet)
Max Scan Angle: 10 degrees
Repeatability: 250 μrad
Linearity: Not Specified

Did You Know?

Galvo Scanner also known as “Galavanometer Scanner” or “Scanning Galvo” is an essential component in the laser beam steering architecture for many laser marking and laser engraving machines. The entire beam steering system that utilizes galvo scanners is typically comprised of two galvo scanners that provide angular steering of an incident laser beam around F and theta axes and a large aperture F-Theta lens that focuses the beam on to the sample being marked or engraved. That entire beam system is often called Galvo Scan Head and allows precise positioning of the focused laser beam within XY marking field on the focal plane. A typical Galvo Scanner is comprised of a high performance galvanometric motor that oscillates around its axis and an attached mirror that is rotated as the galvo scanner is activated. Galvanometer Scanners often utilize photoelectric sensors as a feedback mechanism that ensures the high reproducibility, motion linearity and accuracy of positioning. Most Galvo Scanners operate in a wide range of motion (often +/-40 degrees or higher) and offer a high degree of linearity of > 99%.

Frequently Asked Questions

Galvo Scanners also known as “Galvanometer Scanners” or “Scanning Galvos” or simply “Galvos” are an essential component in the laser beam steering technology for many laser markers and laser engravers. A galvo scanner is comprised of a high performance motor that is able to rotate (oscillate) around an axis at a fast angular speed and a permanently attached mirror, which it rotates. Their high degree of linearity and reproducibility allow steering laser beams with high speed and precision.

Overview of Galvo Scanners

Galvo Scanners are electromechanical beam steering modules that use galvanometer-driven mirrors to rapidly position a laser beam in one or two axes. In laser material processing they enable precise, high-speed deflection for marking, engraving, cutting, drilling, and micromachining. Typical Galvo Scanners support analog or digital input control and integrate with F-theta lenses to generate flat, calibrated scan fields on the workpiece.

Key Specifications and Configurations

When evaluating Galvo Scanners on FindLight, consider the following technical parameters:

  • Aperture size: Clear aperture (e.g., 7 mm, 10 mm, 14 mm, 20 mm) determines compatible beam diameters and maximum power density on the mirrors.
  • Scan angle and field size: Maximum mechanical or optical scan angle combined with your F-theta lens defines the usable marking field.
  • Wavelength compatibility: Mirror coatings optimized for UV (e.g., 355 nm), visible, NIR (e.g., 1064 nm), or CO2 (10.6 µm) lasers.
  • Speed and dynamics: Step response time, tracking error, and maximum marking speed impact throughput and pattern fidelity.
  • Position resolution: Driver resolution and feedback accuracy (often via position detectors) govern precision and repeatability.
  • Cooling and duty cycle: Air- or water-cooled Galvo Scanners with specified thermal limits for continuous industrial operation.
  • Interface and control: Analog ±10 V, digital, or fieldbus interfaces, plus compatibility with common laser marking controllers.

Use Cases for Galvo Scanners

Galvo Scanners in this section support applications such as metal and plastic laser marking, barcode and data matrix coding, PCB and thin-film patterning, precision drilling, scribing, and additive manufacturing beam steering. They are suitable for integration into OEM laser marking heads, lab systems, and custom production workcells.

Buyer Guidance on FindLight

For procurement engineers and R&D teams, begin by matching Galvo Scanners to your laser source (wavelength, power, beam diameter) and required field size. Compare mirror aperture, coating range, and maximum scan speed across the available units. Review datasheets for long-term drift, positioning accuracy, and environmental ratings if the scanner will operate in harsh industrial settings.

On FindLight you can compare Galvo Scanners by key specifications, access technical documentation, and request quotes directly from multiple suppliers. No registration is required to contact vendors, enabling fast clarification of integration details such as mounting patterns, connector pinouts, and controller compatibility.