As one of the noble gases, helium is inert and provides exceptional stability. Helium is also the second-lightest gas next to hydrogen. Both of these substances are lighter than air.
Helium has many industrial uses, including powering gas lasers, which discharge an electric current through a gas to generate light. There are several types of gas lasers, including helium-neon versions. Gas lasers provide a better light beam quality than other laser types because they enable more efficient pumping of the gas media. Consequently, they can generate a higher power density and a smaller beam diameter.
Helium gas is a critical component of a helium-neon gas laser. The Meritus Gas Partners distributor in your area can provide your business with laser-grade helium that will add value to your processes. You’ll also receive exceptional service every step of the way.
While helium is the second-most abundant element on Earth, laser-grade helium can be expensive due to the rapidly rising prices of all helium gases.
This grade of helium has many uses for companies across a broad spectrum of industries:
Helium gas does not directly participate in this process. Instead, it facilitates the excitation of the atoms by promoting the electrons from a ground state to an excited state. In contrast, the direct excitation of neon gas is relatively inefficient.
A carbon dioxide laser is one of the first gas lasers developed for industrial applications and remains one of the most commonly used. It relies on a combination of helium, nitrogen and carbon dioxide to deliver the power.
The laser welding process can create welds several times faster than traditional methods. Helium and argon are the most widely used shielding gas for this innovative technique because they provide excellent protection for the weld area, and their inert properties offer stability.
Because helium gas is non-flammable and non-reactive, it is generally safe in most situations. However, it’s essential to take appropriate precautions to reduce the risk of injuries and illnesses. Breathing large volumes of helium gas can cause asphyxiation by displacing oxygen. Therefore, you should only use or store it in well-ventilated areas.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration classifies helium as a hazardous material. Exposing a helium-filled container to extreme heat could cause it to rupture, so keep it in a cool area away from heat sources.
At Meritus Gas Partners, we can connect you with our thriving nationwide network of independently operated distributors to meet all your laser-grade helium gas and gas equipment needs. You’ll receive attentive service from a family-run business that always has your best interests in mind. Contact us to learn more or find a supplier in your area today.