| 1 | Application fit | Confirm the system is suitable for the substrate, contaminant, coating, and required surface finish. | A sample-cleaning trial using representative parts and documented acceptance criteria. | Cleaning results depend on both the material and the layer being removed; a successful trial helps establish process suitability. |
| 2 | Laser type and operating mode | Ask whether the equipment uses pulsed or continuous-wave output and why that mode suits the application. | Technical datasheet stating operating mode, wavelength, and intended process range. | Different operating modes deliver energy differently and can produce different process results and thermal effects. |
| 3 | Power and pulse specifications | For pulsed systems, distinguish average power, pulse energy, pulse duration, and repetition rate. | Published specifications for each parameter, rather than a power rating alone. | These measurements describe different aspects of laser output and cannot be treated as interchangeable. |
| 4 | Cleaning speed and consistency | Evaluate throughput on the actual part geometry, including edges, recesses, and repeat production runs. | Trial results showing area cleaned per unit time and consistent inspection results across samples. | A nominal speed claim may not reflect real production conditions or the required finish. |
| 5 | Safety provisions | Check the laser classification, guarding, interlocks, emergency stop, operating instructions, and required protective equipment. | Risk assessment and safety documentation for the delivered configuration and intended installation. | Class 4 laser products can present hazardous direct and reflected beam exposure; appropriate controls depend on the installation and use. |
| 6 | Fume and particle management | Determine what the cleaning process releases and whether local exhaust ventilation or filtration is needed. | Process-specific fume assessment and compatible extraction-system recommendations. | Removing coatings or contaminants can generate airborne particles or fumes that require suitable control measures. |
| 7 | Optics and maintenance | Review protective-window replacement, lens cleaning, calibration, and routine service requirements. | Maintenance schedule, consumables list, and availability of replacement parts. | Contamination or wear in the optical path can affect operation and may increase maintenance downtime. |
| 8 | Controls and integration | Check the user interface, parameter control, remote operation options, and compatibility with production workflows. | Demonstration of the actual control system and written integration requirements. | Suitable controls can support repeatable processes and integration into manual or automated work cells. |
| 9 | Service, training, and warranty | Clarify response arrangements, training scope, warranty exclusions, and who performs repairs. | Written warranty terms, service contact details, training plan, and parts lead-time information. | Clear support terms help buyers plan operator onboarding, maintenance, and potential downtime. |
| 10 | Documentation and compliance | Verify that manuals, declarations, and applicable conformity documents match the exact model and target market. | Model-specific technical file and documentation relevant to the country of installation. | Requirements vary by jurisdiction and configuration; verify applicable obligations rather than relying on a generic claim. |