How to select laser engraved glasses？

The principle of laser engraving is to use the characteristics of the interaction between laser beam and material to perform cutting, punching, scribing, shadow engraving and other processing on materials.Laser engraving produces stunning precision but can harm your eyes and even cause permanent damage if you're not adequately protected. The right laser safety glasses will protect your eyes while you create beautiful products.  

The Importance of Laser Safety Glasses

Laser safety glasses prevent eye damage by filtering out harmful wavelengths from lasers such as CO2 ,fiber and blue. The glasses protect against direct laser beams and hazardous reflections.Wearing laser protective glasses can reduce risks for both individuals and companies.

How to select laser safety glasses?

Not all safety glasses are the same. Using the wrong type of glasses can be just as bad as not wearing safety glasses at all. 

Here are some factors to consider when choosing safety glasses.

1. Laser Parameters:

①Wavelength: Determine the wavelength of the laser you are working with. Different lasers have different wavelengths, and laser safety glasses are designed to protect specific wavelengths or wavelength ranges. For example, if you are using a 1064nm laser, you need to choose safety glasses that can effectively block this wavelength. It is crucial to ensure that the laser safety glasses can cover the wavelength of the laser you are using.

②Power and Energy: Know the power or energy output of the laser. Higher-power lasers require higher levels of protection. Check the specifications of the laser safety glasses to ensure they can handle the power of the laser you are using. This information is often related to the optical density (OD) value of the glasses (see below).

2. Optical Density (OD):

The OD value indicates the ability of the laser safety glasses to attenuate laser light. The higher the OD value, the greater the attenuation, and the stronger the protection. Generally, for common laser applications, an OD value of 4 or higher is often required for effective protection. However, for high-power or special lasers, a higher OD value may be necessary. For example, for extremely powerful lasers, an OD value of 6 or even 7 may be needed.

3. Visible Light Transmittance (VLT):

VLT refers to the percentage of visible light that can pass through the glasses. A higher VLT means better visibility, but it may also reduce the protection level for laser light to some extent. On the other hand, a lower VLT provides stronger laser protection but may make the vision darker. For general work environments, a VLT of around 20% or higher is usually acceptable, but in some cases where there is sufficient ambient light, a higher VLT may be preferred for better visual clarity.

4. Frame Design and Comfort:

① Frame Fit: The frame should fit your face comfortably and securely to ensure that the glasses stay in place during use. Try on different frames to find one that suits the shape of your face and provides a snug fit without causing discomfort or pressure points. Adjustable frames or those with flexible temples can be a good choice for better adaptability.

② Compatibility with Other Eyewear: If you wear prescription glasses, look for laser safety glasses that can be worn over your prescription glasses or that have built-in prescription lenses. Some frames are designed to accommodate both laser protection and corrective lenses, which is more convenient for people with vision problems.

5. Certifications and Standards:

Ensure that the laser safety glasses meet relevant international or national safety standards, such as the American ANSI Z136 standard or the European CE certification (EN 207). These standards ensure the quality and safety performance of the glasses. The glasses should be clearly marked with relevant certification information, such as the wavelength range, OD value, and LB level (if applicable).

6. Manufacturer and Brand Reputation:

Choose products from well-known and reliable manufacturers or brands. Reputable manufacturers usually have better quality control and after-sales service, which can provide more reliable protection for your eyes. You can read product reviews and ask for recommendations from professionals in the field to learn about the reputation of different brands.

Types of protective glasses for laser engraving: CO2, Fiber, and Blue

When working with lasers, the type of laser safety glasses you'll need depends on your specific laser system.

CO2 Laser Safety Glasses

CO2 lasers operate in the far-infrared region, usually around 10,600 nanometers (nm). They are commonly used in engraving, cutting, and welding. Safety glasses designed for CO2 lasers typically use materials like polycarbonate or special composite blends that effectively block or reduce infrared radiation. These glasses' OD is usually high to deal with the higher power levels that CO2 lasers.

Fiber Laser Safety Glasses

Fiber lasers usually operate at wavelengths around 1,064 nm but can range between 1,000 and 1,100 nm. These lasers are often employed in metal marking, engraving, and medical applications. The safety glasses for fiber lasers typically use glass lenses because they better protect against these specific wavelengths. Glass lenses also offer high OD levels and better visibility compared to polycarbonate lenses at these wavelengths.

Blue Laser Safety Glasses

Blue lasers usually operate at wavelengths around 450 nm . These lasers are often employed in metal marking and engraving. Safety glasses designed for blue lasers usually use materials such as polycarbonate or special composite materials, which can effectively block or reduce blue laser radiation. These glasses usually have lower OD and better visibility.