The SLM-310 uses durable LCOS technology and new liquid crystal materials for improved light resistance.
Santec AOC Corporation has announced the development of the SLM-310, a liquid crystal on silicon (LCOS)-based spatial light modulator designed to operate with 1kW-class laser power in the near-infrared spectrum (1-micrometer band). Intended for industrial uses such as metal 3D printing and precision laser processing, the SLM-310 incorporates LCOS technology and newly developed liquid crystal materials to improve light resistance and durability.
New option for near-infrared laser processing
Near-infrared lasers are commonly used in material processing applications involving metals and plastics. The SLM-310 spatial light modulator is designed to support precise control of laser beams, improving processing accuracy and reducing thermal impact on materials. When used in laser processing equipment—such as welders, hole drillers, cutters, and metal 3D printers—it enables more consistent and controlled operation.
The SLM-310 supports advanced laser processing techniques that are not achievable with traditional galvanometer scanner technology. By enabling beam shaping and multi-point laser irradiation with 1kW-class lasers, it delivers new value to metal additive manufacturing (3D printing) applications.
Product innovation and development
A reflective LCOS-based SLM enables precise phase control of light, allowing for a wide range of optical functions such as beam deflection and shape transformation. While Santec AOC has previously developed LCOS-SLMs capable of tolerating up to 500W of optical power, higher power resistance became essential for demanding metal-processing applications.
In response, the newly developed SLM-310 incorporates a water-cooling system and is designed to handle up to 1kW of laser power — twice the light tolerance of its predecessors. This advancement significantly extends the SLM’s applicability in high-power industrial environments.
Key features
- High Resolution: WUXGA (1920 x 1200), 2.3 million pixels
- High Phase Resolution: 10-bit (1024 levels), surpassing typical 8-bit (256 levels) models
- Custom Design Options: Flexible adaptation for specific needs using Santec AOC’s proprietary LCOS platform
The SLM-310 offers a new standard in laser modulation for industrial users demanding performance, reliability and customizability.
For more information, visit santec.com.
