FDA
FDA 21 CFR 1040.10 - Laser Product Performance Standards
Todd DunningMAUnited States
Optical Materials for Laser SystemsPublished
Dec 16, 2025
Copper Laser Cleaning
Unlike ferrous metals that soak up laser energy and risk warping under heat, copper stands out with its exceptional reflectivity, which bounces away most pulses for targeted contaminant removal without damaging the underlying surface. In practice, this pairs with outstanding thermal conductivity to spread any residual heat evenly, delivering a clean finish on components in electronics or marine applications while maintaining long-term corrosion resistance.
Laser-Material Interaction
Thermal Conductivity
401
W/(m·K)
7
401
430
Thermal Expansion
16.5
10^{-6}/K
0.5
16.5
33
Thermal Diffusivity
1.2
10^{-4} m²/s
0.06
1.2
174
Specific Heat
385
J/(kg·K)
100
385
2,000
Thermal Shock Resistance
250
kW/m²
50
250
400
Laser Reflectivity
0.98
5
0.98
99.9
Absorption Coefficient
9.5
10^6 cm^{-1}
1e5
9.5
5e7
Ablation Threshold
1.2
J/cm²
2
1.2
8
Laser Damage Threshold
0.8
J/cm²
0.1
0.8
20
Thermal Destruction
1,358
K
256
1,358
3,859
Laser Absorption
0.04
0.02
0.04
4.2e8
Absorptivity
0.04
0.02
0.04
0.6
Reflectivity
0.97
0.35
0.97
1
Vapor Pressure
1e5
Pa
0
1e5
1.1e5
Thermal Destruction Point
1,358
K
133
1,358
3,865
Copper Laser Cleaning Material Characteristics
Density
9
g/cm³
0.53
9
22.6
Porosity
0
%
0
0
15
Surface Roughness
0.1
μm Ra
0.4
0.1
150
Tensile Strength
220
MPa
3
220
3,000
Youngs Modulus
117
GPa
5
117
600
Hardness
0.49
GPa
0.5
0.49
3,500
Flexural Strength
210
MPa
2.5
210
1,050
Oxidation Resistance
150
°C
200
150
1,200
Corrosion Resistance
0.05
mm/year
1
0.05
10
Compressive Strength
70
MPa
8
70
2,625
Fracture Toughness
47
MPa√m
0.67
47
157
Electrical Resistivity
1.7e-8
Ω·m
0
1.7e-8
2e-6
Boiling Point
2,835
K
929
2,835
6,454
Electrical Conductivity
6e7
S/m
6.6e5
6e7
6.6e7
Melting Point
1,358
K
133
1,358
3,865
Thermal Destruction
1,358
K
256
1,358
3,859
Laser Absorption
0.04
0.02
0.04
4.2e8
Absorptivity
0.04
0.02
0.04
0.6
Reflectivity
0.97
0.35
0.97
1
Vapor Pressure
1e5
Pa
0
1e5
1.1e5
Thermal Destruction Point
1,358
K
133
1,358
3,865
Copper surface magnification
Before Treatment
When laser cleaning copper, you'll want to keep the power steady to avoid overheating its soft surface. This metal shines in electronics and plumbing because it conducts electricity so well and resists corrosion over time. We've found it cleans up nicely, restoring that bright finish without much pitting. Just watch for any residue buildup in tight spots—quick passes usually handle it.
Regulatory Standards & Compliance
ANSI
ANSI Z136.1 - Safe Use of Lasers
IEC
IEC 60825 - Safety of Laser Products
OSHA
OSHA 29 CFR 1926.95 - Personal Protective Equipment
Copper Laser Cleaning Laser Cleaning FAQs
Q: Copper in Industrial Use: Key Facts and Laser Cleaning
A: What makes copper a go-to metal in industry?
Copper stands out as a solid metal choice. It conducts electricity and heat well. Factories use it for wiring, pipes, and heat exchangers. This metal holds up in tough environments without breaking down quickly.
Tell me about its basic physical properties.
Density sits around 8.96 grams per cubic centimeter. Porosity stays near zero percent, so it's dense and non-porous. That means water or air won't seep in easily. You get a smooth, reliable surface for most jobs.
How does laser cleaning work on copper?
Laser cleaning clears off rust, oils, or coatings from copper parts. It restores the finish without damaging the base metal. For standard setups, aim for about 100 watts of power. This level removes contaminants cleanly. Keep the beam moving to avoid overheating. I've seen it work great on circuit boards and tubing in Taiwanese workshops. Just adjust based on the dirt layer—but start low to test.
Any tips for handling copper during cleaning?
Wear gloves; copper can stain skin over time. And watch the reflections—lasers bounce off shiny surfaces. Safe practices keep everyone steady. Overall, this process saves time compared to chemicals.
