Laser Tube Arcing? (Video link attached)

Not lightburn specific, but looking for some general laser help.

I have a 130w China red/black laser.

I’ve noticed a drop in power over the last several weeks. I noticed some algae growth in our system, so I cleared out the old water and flushed out a second time adding a little bleach. Now our tube is crystal clear with new distilled water, but the same arcing issue is occurring.

Do I need to purchase a new tube?
Any help would be appreciative!

https://vimeo.com/376377230/2ee3341bb1

That’s not arcing, it’s just the charge leaving the plasma at the cathode (?) end. Arcing would happen somewhere along the tube itself, or the wiring, and produces a pretty distinct electrical ‘snap’ sound, like a tiny lightning bolt.

If you have a power drop, check things like mirrors and lenses to make sure they’re clean. Your tube plasma has a nice purple color, so it appears to be ok (white is a dead tube).

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Thank you Oz! You just made my day! :slight_smile: