I built a long-range LASER turret in my yard!

styropyro
25 Jan 202431:29
EducationalLearning
32 Likes 10 Comments

TLDRIn this exciting video, the presenter unveils his latest acquisition: a powerful 2,000 Watt laser system capable of welding and cleaning. Despite having no practical need for such a tool, he's eager to explore its potential. Demonstrating its capabilities, he successfully strips rust from a surface, melts concrete, removes paint, and even burns through steel and drywall. Fascinated by the laser's range of applications, he also attempts to increase the laser's effective distance by constructing a telescope-like device, leading to a series of impressive and fiery experiments.

Takeaways
  • ๐ŸŒŸ The video features a 2,000 Watt laser welding and cleaning system, which is the most powerful continuous wave (CW) laser shown in the video series.
  • ๐Ÿ”ง The creator was inspired to purchase the laser system after watching a video by Backyard Scientist, who demonstrated the power and creativity possible with similar Chinese-made systems.
  • ๐Ÿงช The laser's primary function is to clean rust and other debris off surfaces, which it does by using laser ablation - a process where high power density causes the material to explode off the surface.
  • ๐Ÿš€ The video showcases the laser's ability to clean a variety of materials, including a rusty air cleaner, a gun barrel, and even a piece of steel plate.
  • ๐Ÿ”ฅ The laser can also ignite thermite, which is typically difficult to set on fire and usually requires a special mix.
  • ๐Ÿ” The video explains the science behind the laser's power, noting that its high power density is comparable to that of a nuclear reactor's core.
  • ๐Ÿ”ญ To increase the laser's effective range, the creator builds a telescope using a 400-year-old invention, which helps to widen the beam and increase its burning ability at a distance.
  • ๐Ÿ  The video includes a sponsored segment about the็จณๅฎšๆ€ง and comfort of a desk and chair combo from Flexispot, which the creator used to stabilize the laser for long-distance burning.
  • ๐ŸŽฏ The creator tests the laser's long-distance capabilities by burning and cutting various objects from up to 220 meters away, including cardboard, drywall, steel, and even a truck door.
  • ๐ŸŒฒ The video concludes with the creator discussing the theoretical maximum burning distance of the laser, which is calculated to be 4 kilometers, although practical limitations prevent testing this extreme range.
  • ๐Ÿ”ฅ The creator emphasizes responsible use of the laser, noting that all experiments were conducted in a controlled environment with no risk of starting a fire.
Q & A
  • What is the main purpose of the laser system that Drake bought?

    -Drake bought a sketchy laser welding and cleaning system primarily for the excitement of experimenting with its high power output, despite not having enough practical tasks to justify its purchase.

  • What is the power output of the laser system?

    -The laser system has an output power of 2,000 Watts, making it the strongest continuous wave (CW) laser Drake has shown in his videos.

  • How does Drake demonstrate the laser's cleaning capability?

    -Drake demonstrates the laser's cleaning capability by using it to remove rust from a rusty air cleaner and a rusty barrel, showing the effectiveness of the laser in stripping off the rust and leaving a shiny surface.

  • What is laser ablation, and how does it work?

    -Laser ablation is a process where a material's surface is removed due to explosive boiling caused by high power density. The intense laser beam is focused on a small area, causing the material to rapidly heat and essentially explode off the surface.

  • What happens when the laser is used on red iron oxide?

    -When the laser is used on red iron oxide, it is reduced to black iron oxide, which is more ferromagnetic. This reaction occurs at very high temperatures, indicating the laser's ability to heat substances to extreme temperatures.

  • How does Drake attempt to increase the laser's effective range for burning objects?

    -Drake attempts to increase the laser's effective range by constructing a telescope using a 400-year-old invention. The telescope is designed to widen the laser beam, reducing its spread and increasing its burning ability over a longer distance.

  • What type of objects does Drake successfully burn or clean with the laser at a distance of 70 meters?

    -At a distance of 70 meters, Drake successfully burns through drywall, a steel plate, and a fire brick, and also ignites thermite and firecrackers. He also manages to open a can of soda and pop an aerosol can.

  • What is the maximum burning range Drake calculates theoretically for the laser setup?

    -Theoretically, using the Stefan-Boltzman law and approximations, Drake calculates a maximum burning range of 4 kilometers (2 and a half miles) for the laser setup.

  • How does Drake ensure safety and prevent fires during his experiments?

    -Drake ensures safety by conducting his experiments in a controlled environment where he can confidently know that the laser beam will stop and not leave his property. He also mentions that the risk of lighting the forest on fire is zero due to the recent rain and his expertise in burning things in the woods.

  • What่ตžๅŠฉๅ•† provided Drake with the equipment to help stabilize his laser experiments?

    -Flexispot provided Drake with a C7 chair and E7 plus desk combo, which contributed to the stability needed for his long-distance laser shots.

  • What was the outcome of Drake's attempt to ignite a propane tank with the laser?

    -Drake was able to briefly ignite the propane tank by keeping the laser focused on the leaking gas, but it did not cause a significant explosion or fire.

Outlines
00:00
๐Ÿ”ฅ Introducing the Powerful Laser System

The script begins with the host, Drake, excitedly introducing a newly acquired laser welding and cleaning system with an impressive 2,000 Watts output power. Despite not having enough projects to justify the purchase, his curiosity and desire to experiment with this high-powered technology is evident. He credits a video by the Backyard Scientist for inspiring his purchase and shares his intentions to explore the laser's capabilities, including its potential as a long-range directed energy device. The segment ends with Drake planning to test the laser's functions, starting with rust removal and cleaning.

05:04
๐ŸŒŸ Testing the Laser's Cleaning and Stripping Abilities

In this paragraph, Drake demonstrates the laser system's effectiveness in cleaning a rusty air cleaner and a favorite barrel, showing the power of laser ablation. He explains the science behind the process, where high power density causes the material to explode off the surface. Further, he explores the laser's ability to strip off paint, leaving a shiny surface underneath, and the unique chemical reaction that occurs when rust (iron oxide) is exposed to the laser, changing its form and magnetism. The summary also touches on the laser's capacity to heat up particles in the air and the host's shock at the beam's brightness.

10:05
๐Ÿ”จ Experimenting with the Laser's Burning Capabilities

Drake's adventures continue as he tests the laser's ability to burn through various materials, starting with a steel plate and moving on to drywall, fire brick, and mirror. He notes the laser's rapid effectiveness and its potential as a long-range tool. The host then conducts an experiment with thermite, showing that the laser can ignite it instantly. He also demonstrates the laser's ability to create a glass structure by melting sand and compacting fiberglass into beads. The segment ends with Drake's curiosity about the laser's ability to clean sodium metal, which unfortunately leads to a less satisfying result.

15:07
๐ŸŽฏ Long-Range Laser Experiments and Stability

The host expresses his desire to use the laser to burn objects at a distance and introduces a telescope to increase the laser's effective range. He explains the principles of diffraction and how a telescope can help focus the laser beam. Drake then shares his experience of building a PVC barreled adjustable scope for the laser, despite the challenges of aiming and stability at extended distances. He credits his sponsor, flexispot, for providing a stable desk and comfortable chair that aid in his long-range laser experiments. The paragraph concludes with the host's plans to upgrade his desk setup for better work and comfort.

20:13
๐Ÿ’ฅ Advanced Distance Laser Tests and Challenges

Drake conducts advanced tests on the laser's ability to ignite chemicals and burn through materials from a distance. He shares the difficulty of aiming the laser accurately and the challenges of hitting targets due to the wobbly mount. Despite these obstacles, he successfully ignites thermite and burns through a pyro target. The host also attempts to pop a can of soda and a firecracker roll from 70 meters away and is amazed by the laser's precision. The segment ends with Drake's reflections on the potential of the laser system and his aspirations to reach even greater distances with improved equipment.

25:17
๐ŸŒฒ Venturing Further with Forest Experiments

In this paragraph, Drake extends his experiments into the forest, aiming to burn objects at much greater distances. He acknowledges the increased difficulty of aiming and the challenge of seeing the results from far away. Despite these challenges, he successfully burns through drywall, melts a steel can, and ignites thermite from a significant distance. The host also shares his surprise at being able to ignite thermite from the extended range. The segment concludes with Drake's theoretical calculations of the maximum burning range and his decision to cap the experiments due to the limitations of his setup and the need to ensure safety and containment.

30:19
๐Ÿ™ Acknowledgments and Closing Remarks

Drake concludes the video by thanking his sponsor, flexispot, for the chair used in his tower and the backyard scientists for inspiring him to purchase the laser system. He also expresses gratitude to his Patreon supporters and promises to share extras and cuts from the video on the platform. The host addresses potential concerns about forest fires and assures viewers of the safety measures taken. He ends with a reminder to stay safe and a farewell until the next video, leaving the audience in anticipation of more exciting laser experiments.

Mindmap
Keywords
๐Ÿ’กLaser welding and cleaning system
A laser welding and cleaning system is a powerful tool that uses focused laser beams to weld metals together or clean surfaces by removing unwanted material. In the video, the system is described as having an impressive 2,000 Watts of output power, which is used for various demonstrations, including stripping rust and cleaning surfaces. The system's high power density allows it to perform these tasks with precision and efficiency, showcasing the capabilities of modern laser technology.
๐Ÿ’กPower density
Power density refers to the amount of power that is delivered per unit area. In the context of the video, the high power density of the laser system is crucial for its ability to clean and weld, as it allows the laser to concentrate a large amount of energy into a small area, leading to efficient material removal or bonding. The power density of the laser is so high that it can cause surface materials to literally explode off, a process known as laser ablation.
๐Ÿ’กLaser ablation
Laser ablation is a process where a material is removed from a surface as a result of exposure to a laser beam. The intense energy from the laser causes the material to rapidly heat and vaporize, effectively stripping away the top layer. This process is used for cleaning purposes, as well as in scientific research and material processing. In the video, the presenter uses laser ablation to clean rust off a surface and strip paint, demonstrating the effectiveness of the technique.
๐Ÿ’กDirected energy device
A directed energy device is a system that emits energy in a focused manner, often in the form of a beam, to interact with a target at a distance. These devices can be used for various purposes, including communication, sensing, and as weapons. In the video, the presenter expresses a desire to convert the laser system into a long-range directed energy device, indicating the potential military and strategic applications of such technology.
๐Ÿ’กOptics
Optics refers to the study and application of the behavior of light, particularly when it interacts with materials and is used to manipulate or control light. In the context of the video, optics are crucial for the laser system, as they are used to shape and direct the laser beam to achieve specific effects. The presenter mentions the addition of optics to increase the laser's range and effectiveness as a directed energy device.
๐Ÿ’กFiber laser tech
Fiber laser technology involves the use of optical fibers to generate and amplify laser light. This technology is known for its efficiency, reliability, and ability to produce high-quality beams. In the video, the presenter's purchase of the laser system was influenced by a demonstration of fiber laser technology's capabilities, highlighting the increasing affordability and power of such systems.
๐Ÿ’กThermite
Thermite is a pyrotechnic composition of metal powder, typically aluminum, and a metal oxide, usually iron oxide, that produces an exothermic oxidation-reduction reaction when ignited. This reaction generates extremely high temperatures and is used for welding, incendiary devices, and in the video, for demonstrating the laser's ability to ignite difficult materials. The presenter uses thermite to show the laser's capability to reach temperatures sufficient to initiate the thermite reaction.
๐Ÿ’กDiffraction
Diffraction is a phenomenon that occurs when a wave encounters an obstacle or a slit that is comparable in size to its wavelength. In the context of the video, the diffraction of the laser beam is discussed as a limiting factor in the laser's ability to maintain focus and intensity over long distances. The presenter explains that while it is impossible to completely overcome diffraction, certain methods, such as using a telescope, can minimize its effects and improve the laser's long-range capabilities.
๐Ÿ’กTelescope
A telescope is an optical instrument that gathers and magnifies light, allowing the observation of distant objects. In the video, the presenter uses a telescope in a non-traditional way, not for astronomical observations but to widen the laser beam, thereby increasing its burning ability over long distances. This innovative application of a telescope demonstrates the versatility of optical technology and the presenter's ingenuity in modifying equipment for experimental purposes.
๐Ÿ’กStability
Stability in the context of the video refers to the ability of the laser system to maintain a steady and accurate aim over long distances. The presenter emphasizes the importance of stability when trying to hit targets at extreme distances, as even slight movements can significantly affect the laser's accuracy. To improve stability, the presenter uses a combination of a sturdy mount and a comfortable chair to reduce movement and increase precision.
๐Ÿ’กSafety
Safety is a critical consideration when working with powerful equipment like the laser system featured in the video. It involves taking precautions to prevent accidents, injuries, and damage to property. The presenter acknowledges the potential hazards of using the laser and takes steps to contain the beam and avoidไธ่ดŸ่ดฃไปป็š„่กŒไธบ. The video also touches on the importance of responsible use of technology and the potential for new laws to regulate such powerful devices.
Highlights

Drake's excitement about his new 2,000 Watts laser welding and cleaning system, which he purchased for recreational purposes despite not having enough tasks to justify its purchase.

The laser's power is so high that it approaches military levels and can be converted into a long-range directed energy device with additional optics.

Drake credits the Backyard Scientist's video for inspiring his purchase after witnessing the power of similar Chinese-made systems.

The laser effectively strips rust off a rusty air cleaner, demonstrating its cleaning capabilities.

The laser's brightness is so intense that it heats up particles in the air, creating a visible glow despite the laser light being invisible.

Laser ablation is explained as the process of stripping off paint and rust due to the high power density of the laser.

Drake showcases the laser's ability to burn through various materials like steel plates and drywall, illustrating its cutting power.

A mirror successfully defeats the laser, showing that reflectivity plays a crucial role when working with powerful lasers.

The laser ignites thermite, demonstrating its ability to reach extremely high temperatures.

Drake's attempt to see if the laser can clean sodium metal by stripping off oxides faster than they form.

The laser's challenge in drilling through tungsten, the metal with the highest melting point, and the resulting blue light emission.

Drake's ambition to burn objects at a distance, leading to the construction of a telescope to increase the laser's downrange burning ability.

The successful ignition of various targets from significant distances, including a firecracker roll and a can of soda, showcasing the laser's long-range capabilities.

The rebuilt scope with new optics is tested, significantly improving the laser's stability and effectiveness.

The laser's ability to cut through a steel door and ignite a propane tank from a considerable distance.

Drake's experiment with burning materials at an extreme distance of 220 meters, pushing the limits of the laser's capabilities.

The theoretical maximum burning range of the laser setup is calculated to be 4 kilometers, suggesting the potential for even more impressive feats with better equipment.

Drake's assurance of safety measures and his expertise in burning things responsibly in the woods.

Transcripts
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