This book focuses on the mechanisms of how laser light is produced, guided, and focused for materials processing, and these are explained in an easy-to-understand language for practical use. It emphasizes a basic understanding of the principles necessary to run lasers in a safe and efficient way and provides information for quick access to laser materials processing for laser users. The book exhibits the following features:

• Provides simple explanations and descriptions of complex laser material interaction mechanisms to help readers understand relevant effects during laser beam irradiation of materials.

• Explains the main high-power laser materials processing methods, giving hints to get started with the processing and how to avoid imperfections.

• Focuses on high-power laser applications that are explained in an accessible, descriptive way with practical explanations and minimal formulas.

• Teaches how to measure laser beam characteristics and how to install and handle laser equipment correctly.

• Gives practical advice on typical equipment arrangements and parameter ranges.

This practical handbook serves as a guide for students studying production technologies to learn about laser processes, and for engineers who want to start working with laser processes safely and quickly.