Corrosion of metals is a common natural process, especially with iron products. Firstly, when metal corrodes, the rust will increase over time if measures are not taken to remove the rust. This will eventually lead to the scrapping of the workpiece or equipment.
Laser rust removal is an advanced metal descaling technology that can complete without damaging mechanical equipment.
Laser rust removal is easier than all previous rust removal techniques, which is why it is preferred in many industries.

How Laser Rust Removal Works

Laser rust removal is a non-contact process for removing rust from metal surfaces. A powerful laser beam quickly removes rust from metal surfaces.
It works by using the effects of the high energy of the laser beam to evaporate, ablate or flake off the rust.
In laser rust removal, the laser beam is applied as pulses or continuous waves but delivers strong energy at very short intervals. Due to powerful energy, the layer of rust is quickly removed while the metal remains unharmed.
The laser beam quickly removes rust, various oxidized layers, paint, etc.

What are the benefits of laser rust removal

There are many benefits of laser rust removal compared to traditional chemical or mechanical grinding rust removal. The advantages of laser rust removal are listed next:

Fast and efficient

The ability to remove rust quickly and efficiently is the biggest advantage of laser rust removal. The laser beam touches the object and removes the rust from the material's surface in moments.
While traditional chemical or sanding rust removal takes a long time, laser rust removal takes only a few minutes or seconds.
It not only saves a lot of time but also increases the efficiency of the work.

Range of removal types

The laser machine removes rust and oxidized layers, oil stains, paint, and other contaminants.

Safe and non-polluting

Traditional chemical reagents for treating metals use a diluted strong acid solution that chemically reacts with the rust on the metal surface. Harmful gases are released during the process of dissolving the rust. The chemical reagents also need to be removed from the surface of the metal after the cleaning process is complete. This process requires great care, and the remaining chemicals need to be stored properly.
If you choose traditional sanding instruments to remove rust, the process produces many rust particles mixed in the air. Inhalation of these particles into the lungs can be a health hazard.
On the other hand, laser rust removal is quite safe, as neither gases nor chemicals are produced during the process.

No damage to metal

Traditional mechanical sanding to remove rust leaves sanding marks on the surface of the metal, a process that can damage the metal. Chemicals also react with the metal surface. The process is non-contact only with laser rust removal and does not harm the metal itself. All you need to do is select the correct laser power and speed. Then once the setup is complete, you are ready for laser rust removal.
While removing the rust layer, the surface metal is also rubbed. As a result, there is a risk of damaging the metal, removing metal particles, and other damage. The same applies to chemical treatments, as harsh chemicals can react with the metal surface.
In laser treatments, there is no damage to the metal as it is a non-contact process. All you need to do is choose the right laser power and speed.

Cost Savings

The cost of using laser rust removal is much lower than traditional methods. The biggest cost of the whole process of laser rust removal is the cost of electricity, which is negligible compared to the chemicals and consumables used in traditional rust removal.
Moreover, laser rust removal only requires a little labor, so there is no need to spend too much on labor costs during the process.

Application of laser rust removal

Pre- and post-welding treatment

Many handheld welders are now equipped with an additional cleaning function: laser rust removal. In order to ensure a beautiful and strong weld, it is essential to clean the metal surface before welding.
Laser rust removal is a great option, as it quickly clears the metal surface of oil stains, rust, etc.
You can also clean the surface after welding, making the welded surface more complete.

Rust Removal

As the name suggests, the biggest use of laser rust removal is for removing rust, and it can clean any rusty metal in a short time. And can also clean it at various complex angles. Military equipment can select automotive parts, large metal equipment, etc., and any part of the corrosion or rust for laser treatment.

Types of laser rust removal machine

Laser rust removal machines can be broadly divided into fiber laser and infrared laser rust removal machines.

Fiber laser

This is the best choice for laser rust removal.
Fiber laser rust removal machine is equipment for surface descaling using laser technology. It uses a laser beam to irradiate the metal surface, removing the oxidized layer on the surface through the instantaneous high temperature. Thus achieving the effect of rust removal. Compared with the traditional mechanical descaling method, the fiber rust removal machine has the advantages of fast descaling speed, high efficiency, and simple operation.
Gweike G2 is a portable laser marker that excels in speed and economy. Besides laser rust removal, you can also use it for cutting and engraving.

Infrared laser

Infrared lasers are less effective than fiber laser rust removal and are only suitable for thin or small-scale descaling.

How to choose a laser rust remover

There are several things to consider when choosing the right laser rust removal machine for you:

Type of laser machine

Cannot use all laser engraving machines for laser rust removal. Suppose your business requires professional rust removal techniques. It would help if you bought a professional fiber laser rust removal machine. If your rust removal needs are less, opting for a dual laser machine like the Gweike G2 is fine. This will allow you to remove rust from metal and engrave various metal materials. This is a good choice for many small businesses or DIY enthusiasts.

Rust Removal Objects

When choosing a rust removal laser, you must check for compatible materials. You should know which metals can be processed and which layers of contaminants can be removed.
Different descaling objects require laser rust removal machines with different powers, wavelengths, and modes of operation. For example, a higher-power CO2 or fiber laser descaler is usually chosen for descaling metallic surfaces. You can select lower-power diode or infrared laser rust removal machines for non-metallic surfaces.

Rust removal effect

Different laser rust removal machines vary in their rust removal effectiveness. For example, a CO2 laser rust remover can quickly remove oxidation and oil from metal surfaces. However, it may not be as effective as a fiber laser rust remover for objects with uneven surfaces.

Speed

For high-volume production lines, you need to choose a laser rust removal machine with a fast descaling speed. The laser should be able to provide sufficient power. Generally, the higher the power, the faster the laser removes rust.

Budget

Fibre lasers are costly as they are equipped with advanced technology and features. They are suitable for large businesses. If you have that budget, you can go for it. Otherwise, you can use an infrared laser machine for your task.
To sum up, choosing the right laser rust removal machine for you needs to consider the above aspects and decide according to your needs and budget.

Conclusion

Lasers are the best option when it comes to rust removal. They are safe, fast, simple, and cost-effective. All you need to do is place the rusted metal on the work area, and the laser machine will do the rest in seconds and minutes. Laser rust removal is incredibly effective. The metal is cleaned without any hassle. For industrial use, you can use a fiber laser; for smaller tasks, an infrared laser is the most affordable option.