CO2 laser tubes are the heart of many laser cutters and an essential component for hobbyists, craftsmen, and small businesses that value precision and efficiency. In this article, you’ll learn everything about their functionality, types, lifespan, and where to buy them.
How Does a CO2 Laser Tube Work?
A CO2 laser tube generates laser light by exciting CO2 gas molecules within a sealed glass tube. Electrical energy is used to create a gas discharge, which excites the molecules to a high-energy state. Through the process of stimulated emission, a focused infrared beam is created, enabling precise cutting and engraving.
The generated laser beam is directed onto the material to be processed via mirrors and lenses. Materials like wood, acrylic, leather, and glass can be processed with high accuracy.
Types of CO2 Laser Tubes
There are different types of CO2 laser tubes, primarily distinguished by their performance and construction:
- Glass Laser Tubes: These are most commonly found in hobby laser cutters. They are affordable and offer high performance with a relatively short lifespan.
- Metal Laser Tubes: These are more expensive but offer a longer lifespan and consistent performance. They are often used in industrial applications and are one reason why professional machines (e.g., from Trotec) are so costly.
How Long Does a CO2 Laser Tube Last?
The lifespan of a CO2 laser tube depends on several factors:
- Operating Hours: Glass tubes typically have a lifespan of 1,000 to 10,000 hours, depending on their quality and manufacturer. Check the specified operating hours when purchasing, as they can vary significantly and often justify a lower price.
- Cooling: Inadequate cooling can significantly shorten the lifespan. Most tubes require water cooling, and the cooling water temperature should always remain below 25°C.
- Usage: Excessive or improper use can degrade durability. Always ensure not to operate the tube beyond its nominal current rating.
Tip: Regular maintenance and using distilled water for cooling can help maximize the lifespan.
Where to Buy CO2 Laser Tubes?
While most glass tubes originate from China, there are significant price differences. RECI* laser tubes are considered the benchmark, sitting at the higher end of the price scale. These tubes can be purchased relatively affordably from Cloudray*, with shipping from China, though approximately €200 in shipping costs apply. Even with these costs, the total price is often several hundred euros lower than local providers. On Amazon, RECI laser tubes start at around €600.
At the lower end of the price range are tubes from Vevor* and OMTech*. Here, smaller models starting at 40W can be found for just over €100. However, these tubes often have a diameter of only 50 mm compared to the more robust 80 mm tubes from RECI. In terms of performance and lifespan, Vevor and OMTech tubes cannot compete with RECI alternatives.
For a good price-performance ratio, I recommend CO2 laser tubes from MCWlaser* and TenHigh*. Both offer solid quality products with fast shipping from Germany, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a balanced ratio of price and performance. I am currently using an MCWlaser tube in my laser and am very satisfied with it.
Comparison Table: CO2 Laser Tubes
| Brand | Price Range | Power (W) | Durchmesser (mm) | Recommended Use | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RECI | High-end | 80W – 150W | 80 mm | Professional applications | Cloudray* Amazon* |
| OMTech | Low-end | 50W – 130W | 60 – 70 mm | Beginners, hobby projects | OMTech* |
| Vevor | Low-end | 40W – 130W | 50 – 80 mm | Beginners, hobby projects | Vevor* eBay* |
| MCWlaser | Mid-range | 40W – 150W | 55 – 80 mm | ⭐Price-performance winner, versatile | Amazon* |
| TenHigh | Mid-range | 40W – 100W | 55 – 80 mm | Hobbyists and small businesses | Amazon* |
Conclusion
CO2 laser tubes are a crucial component for precise cutting and engraving. Understanding their functionality, variants, and proper maintenance helps you get the most out of your laser cutter. Whether you’re looking for a new tube or just want to learn more about the technology, the right information will keep you well-equipped.
Do you have questions or suggestions on this topic? Let us know in the comments!
ADVERTISEMENT: The links marked with an asterisk (*) are affiliate links. If you click on such a link and make a purchase on the destination page, we receive a referral commission from the respective provider or online store. This helps us cover our costs (e.g., web hosting). There are no additional costs or price disadvantages for you when purchasing.
