Lando Chiller Usage Guidelines & Material Precautions

Lando Chiller Usage Guidelines & Material Precautions

When integrating a Lando industrial chiller—especially in laser cooling applications—it is critical to carefully select piping materials and maintain proper water quality. Improper material choices can significantly impact system performance and the lifespan of both the chiller and the connected equipment.

1. Avoid Using Copper Fittings in Laser Cooling Systems

In most laser chiller applications, particularly those involving fiber lasers or deionized (DI) water systems, copper fittings are not recommended for the internal cooling loop.

The main risks include:

• Ion Contamination (Primary Concern)
  Copper can release ions into deionized water, increasing electrical conductivity. This reduces the effectiveness of ion-exchange resins and may compromise laser performance.

• Electrochemical Corrosion
  If aluminum components (such as heat exchangers) are present, contact between copper and aluminum in the cooling fluid can lead to galvanic corrosion, damaging internal parts.

• Laser Manufacturer Restrictions
  Many laser manufacturers explicitly prohibit copper within the cooling circuit and instead recommend stainless steel or polymer-based materials.

2. Where Copper Fittings May or May Not Be Used

• Acceptable Use (Limited Conditions)
  Copper or brass fittings may be used in external piping systems if:

• The system is a closed-loop chiller

• Internal components are made of stainless steel or plastic

• Water quality is strictly monitored

• Not Acceptable
  Copper fittings must not be used in:

• Fiber laser cooling loops

• Any system requiring deionized water

• Internal circulation circuits where contamination risk is critical

3. Recommended Materials for Lando Chiller Systems

To ensure long-term reliability and optimal performance, the following materials are strongly recommended:

• Stainless Steel Fittings
  The most reliable option—corrosion-resistant and does not contaminate water.

• Nickel-Plated Copper Fittings
  A safer alternative to pure copper; the nickel layer helps reduce ion release.

• Plastic or Polymer Fittings (PVC / PTFE)
  Chemically stable, corrosion-resistant, and ideal for maintaining water purity.

4. Precautions If Copper Must Be Used

If copper fittings are unavoidable in specific situations, take the following precautions:

• Increase Filter Replacement Frequency
  Copper ions accelerate the exhaustion of deionization resins, requiring more frequent filter changes.

• Monitor Water Conductivity Regularly
  Use a conductivity meter to ensure water remains within acceptable limits for your laser system.

• 
  

5. General Recommendation

For laser chiller applications, it is strongly advised to use stainless steel or plastic fittings and avoid copper entirely to protect both the chiller and the laser system.

For general industrial chillers (e.g., mold cooling or standard heat removal), copper fittings such as hose barbs may be used, as water purity requirements are less stringent.