MKS announces new Ophir(R) beam analysis system for AM. MKS Inc. has announced the Ophir(R) BeamWatch(R) AM-3 beam analysis system for additive manufacturing. A lightweight, compact, integrated system, this beam analyzer delivers real-time, simultaneous, non-contact measurements of the beam caustic, including near, focus, and far fields, as well as laser power. Key measurements include: waist (focus spot) width and location, focal shift, centroid, M[2] (Beam Parameter Product, BPP), Rayleigh length, and absolute power. These measurements allow additive manufacturing users to more easily determine when the laser beam is aligned and in focus, providing more consistent builds. The Ophir BeamWatch AM-3 beam analysis system features a higher-sensitivity, higher-resolution camera for faster measurements, enabling detection of focal shifts, characterization of focal spots down to 35 μm, and operation with both high-power and medium-power beams. It also extends wavelength coverage upon customer request: Standard: 1030-1100 nm. Other wavelengths available on request. As with all Ophir BeamWatch systems, beam caustic is measured by imaging Rayleigh scatter from two directions, enabling propagation and M[2] measurements in compliance with ISO 11146 standards without contacting the laser. This eliminates potential damage to the optical components and measurement errors that could be caused by those components. The system's real-time capabilities allow for measurement of dynamic focal shift during laser startup. "Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) and Selective Laser Melting (SLM) require symmetrical, uniform, and stable power density distribution of the laser beam," said Reuven Silverman, General Manager, Ophir Photonics Products. "Additive manufacturing users need to know where the system's laser is focusing, if the focus is stable, and, if not, where focus occurs after the system has thermally stabilized. This information is crucial for avoiding structural weaknesses, captured stress, and voids in the AM build. The Ophir BeamWatch AM-3 beam analysis system solves these problems by providing detailed information about key laser beam parameters and how they change with time in order to help maintain the quality and repeatability of the manufactured parts." The Ophir BeamWatch AM-3 beam analysis system includes a high-sensitivity, high-resolution camera for fast spatial measurements and a NIST-traceable power sensor for an analysis of the laser power density profile. The system includes Ophir BeamWatch software for power and caustic analysis. Measurements can be displayed as tabular, 2D, and 3D views, providing a quick and realistic display of laser characteristics. The system includes USB connectivity for data acquisition, analysis, and display to Windows personal computers.

MKS Instruments reported a 10.5% year-over-year revenue increase and strong earnings growth, driven by higher-than-expected international sales, particularly from China and Singapore. The company's higher-margin chemistry and services revenue, tied to AI and complex semiconductor demand, contributed to the results. However, the company faces challenges including an elevated valuation multiple, weaker interest coverage and balance sheet concerns. MKS recently completed a €1.0 billion senior notes offering and term loan refinancing to reduce financing costs and extend maturities. Founded in 1961, MKS provides instruments, systems and process control solutions for advanced manufacturing. The company's narrative projects $4.4 billion in revenue and $475.8 million in earnings by 2028, though some analysts remain cautious about trade barriers and geopolitical risks affecting future growth.