Single mode 1018nm fiber laser with power of 230W

We have developed a high power single-mode (SM) monolithic fiber laser at 1018 nm, producing 230 W CW, with an M-2 of 1.17 and light to light efficiency of 75%. To the best of our knowledge this is the highest power described in the open literature from a SM fiber laser at this wavelength. Careful simulations were employed which take into account the various wavelength dependent parameters such as the fiber absorption and emission as obtained from the fiber manufacturers, and the cavity mirrors' reflection, in addition to the fiber geometrical parameters. It was found that the major obstacle for increasing the power at 1018nm is the self-generation of amplified spontaneous emission at wavelengths of 1030-1040nm. If the laser is not designed properly these undesired wavelengths dominate the output spectrum.