Laser Ablation for Advanced Surface Treatments

Abstract

Laser ablation is gaining popularity for medical device applications that require stripping of coatings on cylindrical components like hypotubes and guide wires. It is also being widely used for advanced surface treatments, including discoloration or foaming of plastics and darkening or annealing of metal parts. Offering a repeatable non‐contact process, laser ablation is a clean, low dust (or no‐dust) way to selectively remove wire layers or areas. It is also a fully automated process, with a very high yield compared to other methods.