On March 14, 2018, during the 2018 Munich Shanghai Optical Expo, Hengtong Fiber made a significant announcement by launching high-performance erbium-doped laser fibers designed for applications in laser marking, material processing, and medical lasers. These advanced fiber products highlight the company's strong technical capabilities and its growing influence in the special fiber industry.
According to industry reports, the global fiber laser market is expected to grow steadily, becoming one of the most important industrial laser technologies. Its applications have expanded into areas such as laser marking, cutting, welding, cladding, metal 3D printing, healthcare, and more. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) is projected to reach around 12% by 2021, driving increased demand for upstream components like erbium-doped fiber. Historically, domestic fiber laser companies have relied heavily on imported erbium-doped fibers, but Hengtong’s recent breakthroughs are changing this dynamic.
Fiber lasers play a critical role in various industries. In the consumer sector, they are used for product labeling, such as marking expiration dates on water bottles, offering a durable and tamper-resistant solution. In manufacturing, fiber lasers improve precision in steel plate cutting. In military applications, they support space confrontation and combat operations.
Dr. Chen Wei, Chief Engineer at Hengtong Fiber, explained the differences between traditional fiber and dual-clad erbium-doped fiber (DC-YDF). DC-YDF is specifically designed for high-precision applications such as laser marking, material processing, and medical lasers. Unlike conventional passive fibers that only transmit light, erbium-doped fiber is an active medium that can generate and amplify light, making it a key component in fiber laser systems.
The production of double-clad erbium-doped fiber is technically challenging, involving complex processes and high value. It is considered a critical technology in the fiber optics industry. Hengtong’s new product uses advanced rare earth chelate gas-phase doping technology combined with MCVD rod technology. This innovative approach allows the deposition process to be completed in a single step without disassembly, reducing production time and minimizing environmental impact. It also ensures better uniformity in doping ion distribution.
Additionally, the rare earth chelate gas-phase doping technology enables in-situ deposition, simplifying operations and improving repeatability. It supports the creation of large-sized erbium-doped mandrel rods, which are essential for producing large preforms using quartz cladding. This ensures consistent quality and reliability in fiber production, enabling the development of kilowatt-class laser fibers to meet China’s growing demand in energy optoelectronics.
Dr. Chen Wei emphasized that Hengtong is deeply committed to R&D in specialty optical fibers. The company has established a dedicated research center with full capabilities in preform manufacturing, drawing, testing, and technical services. Hengtong now offers a range of products including erbium-doped fiber, data center fiber, sensing fiber, and marine fiber. The dual-clad erbium-doped fiber and the supporting passive transmission fiber GDF demonstrate the company’s ability to mass-produce YDF and customize Solutions.
Looking ahead, Hengtong aims to continue advancing its technological edge, seize new opportunities, and build a high-tech special fiber industry. The company is accelerating the internationalization of Chinese fiber laser technology and positioning itself as a leader in the global optical fiber market.
Fiber Optic Connector,Fiber Connector,Fiber Termination,Fiber Adapter
Huizhou Fibercan Industrial Co.Ltd , https://www.fibercan-network.com