Laser enclosure advice please

[Galvonaut]

I am researching cases for my single mode build and would be keen to hear some advice from you knowledgeable folk.

I am aiming for an IP rated enclosure for dust and moisture, not really worried about rain. The lasers will be used outdoors under cover.
I looked at some die-cast aluminium amplifier enclosures but they don't really look the best and machining will be pain as I don't have a workshop.

More trawling the interweb and I extruded aluminium machine rail came up. I think Planters uses this AFAIK? Has anyone had experience of using this stuff for a laser build?
One of my concerns with this is that I will be mounting a lens on to the top (front) of the laser and alignment will have to be pretty spot on.

Are there any other solutions that do not require massive engineering operations? I can TIG weld but again, limited tools and space at present.

Is there anyone in the UK that can build custom IP rated cases without costing the Earth or supply cases already that may suit?

Thanks

Keith

[swamidog]

i used aluminum rail system for my large projector.







my current all diode projector is being built into one of these:

http://www.photonlexicon.com/forums/...light=platinum

I am researching cases for my single mode build and would be keen to hear some advice from you knowledgeable folk.

I am aiming for an IP rated enclosure for dust and moisture, not really worried about rain. The lasers will be used outdoors under cover.
I looked at some die-cast aluminium amplifier enclosures but they don't really look the best and machining will be pain as I don't have a workshop.

More trawling the interweb and I extruded aluminium machine rail came up. I think Planters uses this AFAIK? Has anyone had experience of using this stuff for a laser build?
One of my concerns with this is that I will be mounting a lens on to the top (front) of the laser and alignment will have to be pretty spot on.

Are there any other solutions that do not require massive engineering operations? I can TIG weld but again, limited tools and space at present.

Is there anyone in the UK that can build custom IP rated cases without costing the Earth or supply cases already that may suit?

Thanks

Keith

[Galvonaut]

How did you find the stability and accuracy of the rail system Swami?

[swamidog]

i could drive my care over it...

How did you find the stability and accuracy of the rail system Swami?

[WookieBoy]

Your obvious source for a custom UK case would be to have a chat with Andy-con...

[mixedgas]

T slot tubing is awesome. The slot on 25 mm / 1 inch tubing corresponds to a sliding fit for 0.220" thick standard plastic for the sides.

Steve

[Galvonaut]

Your obvious source for a custom UK case would be to have a chat with Andy-con...

Thanks, I might do that - although came up with another idea earlier that I'm just investigating. It could end up being an interesting build.

Keith

[White-Light]

Kvant had started making IP65 cases a while ago but I'm not seeing any sign of them now.

Might be worth an enquiry as at one point they were selling bare cases. Unlikely to be a cheap solution though.

From memory Synchrovision had the Non IP rated cases for around £350.

RTI Laser who make the Pico lasers also use IP rated cases although whether or not they'd sell you a bare case I don't know.

[Galvonaut]

Thanks White-Light.

I'm actually considering mounting my laser in a sphere now. I know it sounds crazy - not even sure if I have the technical ability to pull it off (or the funds) but I'm still looking in to all options, so thanks.

I need to build some beamers as well as this arty single mode, so I appreciate your suggestions. I'll look into these now. [edit] Now look what you've done - I'm actually considering an RTI Atto now! :P [/edit]

Thanks
Keith