Advancing laser material processing through beam shaping: characterization and evaluation of shaped beams for improved efficiency and quality

Beam shaping has gained increasing importance in laser-based processing, offering enhanced efficiency, quality, and precision across various applications. This paper discusses the challenges of characterizing and defining criteria for evaluating shaped beams in laser material processing. It highlights the essential role of beam shaping in Continuous Wave (CW) processes like high-quality welding for e-mobility and pulsed applications like surface texturing. Various beam shaping technologies are explored, and criteria such as efficiency, uniformity, sharpness, robustness, and depth of field are proposed for evaluating beam performance. Proper characterization and evaluation of shaped beams are crucial to optimize laser performance, ensuring reliable and repeatable outcomes in laser-based processes.