Laser Power Density Calculator
Peak Power Density
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W/cm²
Equivalent in kW/cm²
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kW/cm²
How it works?
Understanding Peak Intensity
Most laser beams follow a Gaussian ($TEM_{00}$) intensity profile, meaning the energy is concentrated in the center. The "Average" density assumes the energy is spread evenly, which underestimates the intensity at the center by 50%.
To predict laser damage thresholds or cutting speeds accurately, you must calculate the Peak Power Density or Fluence:
$$ I_{peak} = \frac{2 \cdot P}{\pi \cdot w^2} $$
Gaussian Beam (CW)
$$ F_{peak} = \frac{2 \cdot E}{\pi \cdot w^2} $$
Gaussian Beam (Pulsed)
Where:
- I : Power Density (Irradiance) in \(W/cm^2\).
- F : Fluence (Energy Density) in \(J/cm^2\).
- P : Average Power (Watts).
- E : Pulse Energy (Joules).
- w : Beam Radius (half of the diameter).
Note: For a "Top Hat" (Flat Top) beam, the energy is uniform, so the factor of "2" is removed from the equation (\( I = P / \pi w^2 \)).