Technological Solutions for Restoration Works
Content
Technological solutions for works restoration
Note: Laser application on canvas paintings is still experimental. Laser is successfully applied on stone, stucco, wall paintings, gilded surfaces, and wooden artworks.
COMPANY PROFILE
El.En. is the parent company of an international group of companies established for developing and producing laser systems for medicine, industry and scientific research. Since its establishment in 1981, El.En. S.p.A. has constantly increased its turnover, with an extremely rapid growth in production and the acquisition of new markets, when has helped it to attain a leading position on the world market.. Thanks to the internal know-how that has grown continuously over the years, the company has set up numerous production lines in the medical and industrial fields, concentrating primarily on the realization of CO2, Nd:YAG, Holmium, Erbium, Excimer and Dye lasers. The company invests approximately 15% of its annual turnover in research and development of new systems and applications, El.En. makes use of internal graduate and post-graduate researchers who work in close collaboration with numerous universities along with international and national research institutes, like the C.N.R., E.N.E.A. and I.N.O.A. As a result of the experience acquired through the participation with national research groups, since 2000, El.En. S.p.A. has activated an internal production line for laser systems for the world of conservation. In 2005 El.En. S.p.A.. expanded its collaboration with the affiliated company, Quanta System S.p.A., aimed at the integration of products and activities in the sector of cultural heritage.
EXPERIMENTATION
Since being founded El.En. S.p.A. and Quanta System S.p.A. have set up numerous lines of research and development in collaboration with the main national research institutes. The company is now the thirty-second in Italy (published in Sole 24Ore 2007) for investments in applied research and it employs university-degree and PhD researchers who work in close collaboration with numerous universities and national research institutes such as the C.N.R., E.N.E.A. and I.N.O.A. Ongoing experimentation, also in international projects, constantly increases the exchange of knowledge and the growth of internal know-how. The El.En. Group’s commitment in the cultural heritage sector receives constant and direct acclaim from the most important European research and protection institutes. The El.En. Group collaborates with "La Venaria Reale" Conservation and Restoration Centre.
EDUCATION
This activity is carried out by the Scientific Committee of the El.En, Group with the assistance of university professors and researchers from the national research institutes. What is laser? What are its applications in the world of restoration? What are laser diagnostics? The most recent results of scientific research….the most famous and important restoration sites… on-site safety… These are but a few of the issues addressed in educational forms specially prepared for the restoration schools and operators in this sector. The El.En. Group collaborates with the Istituto Europeo del Restauro – Island of Ischia
YARDS
The laser devices of the El.En. Group have been used in the most important restoration works including: the Prophet Abacuc by Donatello, the Door of the Mandorla and loggia of the Cupola of the Cathedral of S. Maria del Fiore, the Rape of the Sabines by Giambologna, the Door of Paradise of the Baptistery, Verrocchio’s David and Donatello’s Attis in the National Bargello Museum in Florence, the Gaia Fountain by Jacopo della Quercia and the cycle of frescoes in the Old Sacristy and Manto Chapel of S. Maria alla Scala in Siena, the Leaning Tower and the Door of S. Ranieri of the Cathedral in Pisa, Teodorico’s Mausoleum in Ravenna, the façade of the Certosa in Pavia, the loggia of the Ducal Palace in Venice, the Paolina Chapel of the Palazzi Apostolici in the Vatican, the Cathedral of Lugarno (CH), the basreliefs of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, the Cloister of the Cathedral in Oviedo, the Cloister of the National Sculpture Museum in Valladolid, the door of the Cathedral in Majorca, Spain, Diocletian’s Palace in Split and the door of the Cathedral in Dubrovnik, Croatia. The El.En. Group is contributing towards the restoration of Donatello’s David at the National Bargello Museum in Florence, having provided an Eos 1000 SFR laser device for recovering the gilded bronze surfaces of the statue.
LASER
In just over a few decades, since its first realization by T. H. Maiman in 1960, lasers have found numerous fields of application, from medicine to industry, aesthetic surgery to decorative arts, scientific research to environmental monitoring. This is all thanks to the physical characteristics of the beam of laser light: monochromaticity, spatial and temporal coherence, unidirectionality and elevated brilliance. A beam of light is obtained when in the hand of mankind becomes an extremely flexible instrument capable of adapting to a wide range of uses. The advantages common to all lasers consist of its extreme control precision, limited invasiveness, absence of mechanical stress due to the absence of physical contact with the target, elevated degree of integration in internal processes, silence, the possibility of limiting or eliminating chemical aids, and the possibility of selectively interacting only on specific components of organic and inorganic material. Thanks to these features, laser offers great advantages in the industrial field, from a technological and economic point of view, reducing operating times and also improving product quality. The first use in the medical field dates back to 1962 when a ruby laser was used for resealing the retina. It was however, with the advent of the CO2 laser that the field was opened up for a myriad of surgical applications. Today this instrument is widely used in all medical fields, thanks to the constant technological research and ever-increasing understanding of the interaction phenomena between the laser light and the tissues.
LASER FOR ARTISTIC RESTORATION
The demand is growing for increasingly more accurate cleaning techniques for conserving the cultural heritage, capable of offering an elevated selectivity and minimum impact on the original structure of the art works. Laser proposes a solution to meet this requirement as they offer the restorer a new instrument, which can be integrated with the current mechanical and chemical means. Adopting the laser, therefore, meets the growing need for technical adaptation, induced by the new regulations and ever-increasing demand for laser use by public institutions safeguarding the cultural heritage. Thanks to the ongoing research, the field of application on different materials is becoming wider and wider. The use of lasers, both, on stone surfaces of individual monuments and surfaces of historic buildings is now affirmed and a widely accepted restoration process. As a result of constant commitment to internal research and development, El.En. S.p.A.’s products have for years been contributing towards the conservation of the cultural and artistic heritage. Developed in collaboration with the most important national research centers and verified at the most important restoration sites, extremely innovative solutions have been proposed. The new collaboration combines 10 years of experience from Quanta System S.p.A. with the activities of El.En. S.p.A.'s cultural heritage along with the activities of El.En. S.p.A. Performing in close contact with Florence University researchers, from the scientific center, the provision of cutting-edge technological solutions, which are constantly validated by the world of conservation, are used.
BLACK BOX
Arte Black Box is a device especially designed and created to record Information regarding the transportation of artworks. By memorizing the humidity, temperature, pressure, lighting, and acceleration values on the three axes, Arte Black Box controls and guarantees that artworks are not subjected to any damage during transport. Arte Black Box, which does not emit electromagnetic radiations, can be mounted on any type of bracket and used on all types of vehicles. The autonomy of Art Black Box is approximately 30 days, and its memory allows for recording up to 4 GB of data. The user can extract and replace the power supply unit. On request the user can also mount up to 18 sensors. All the volumes monitored have a sensitivity and accuracy well within the limits enforced by European museum standards. Arte Black Box comes with software that allows for setting the data to be recorded, checking the correct operation of the system, and downloading and analyzing the data recorded, even remotely. The software enables selection of the most significant parameters in order to provide the user with an immediate synthesis of the most important events occurring during the data recording. System features: Input number: up to 18 sensors Sampling rate: programmable, up to 100 Hz Memory capability: secure digital memory card, up to 4 Gb Stand by time: up to 360 h(1) Connectivity: USB -uHf -GPrS -IrDA -rS232 Integrated sensors type: temperature, humidity, pressure, visible light, Ir light, uV light, rGB light, triaxis accelleration
There are four main advantages in using laser technology to clean the surfaces of historic and artistic interest: Minimum invasiveness The laser is characterised, first and foremost, by the absence of physical contact between the instrument and the surfaces to be treated. This allows operating on extremely fragile or heavily altered surfaces, even before consolidation. Moreover, acting directly on the surfaces, lase do not require the addition of abrasive materials or the use of chemical agents. Laser cleaning only requires - where permitted by the conditions of the art work a slight dampening of the surface to be treated with water. A high degree of control The removal of the deteriorated layer can be gauged in such a way as to involve only a few microns of thickness per single pulse, permitting the depth to be reached with utmost precision. Selectivity Lasers exploit the physical principle of the different light absorption coefficient by the various materials depending on their color. The altered layer to be removed, in the majority of cases involving black or very dark colors, absorbs the light completely, allowing for an almost instantaneous laser removal process (ablation). Vice-versa, the substrate of the material to be preserved, usually lighter tones, reflects the light to a much greater degree, consequently limiting or impeding the laser action. High precision The cleaning process only involves the area illuminated by the laser beam, without any mechanical or heat effects on the surrounding areas. Moreover, lasers that use optic fibers allow for treating even considerably complex modeled surfaces. The use of the variable focus handpiece offers additional flexibility of use, at the same time allowing for the treatment of large surface areas, or precision working on extremely minute details.
WIRELESS REMOTE CONTROÑ
Forever intent on solving operating problems on restoration sites, El.En. S.p.A. has now created the Bluetooth control panel for its line laser devices for restoration. An ergonomic system especially designed and manufactured for integrating and completing all the advantages of using optic fibre laser systems for restoration. In this way the restorer operating within a radius of ten meters no longer needs to move the laser system. Once the laser is switched on, all the necessary Operations are set by the control panel. The long autonomy allows the Bluetooth control panel to keep operating well beyond the day’s work on site. System features Bluetooth system Max. use range: 10 meters Connection possibility: open Modifies parameters in real time Controls: energy frequency, laser system operability Remote alarm management Autonomy: more than 24 hours (internal rechargeable Ni-MH battery) Inbuilt battery charger Weight: 200g Will not interfere with any other electronic devices, even wireless.
SMART CLEAN II
Smart Clean II is an Innovative laser system, designed to clean stone surfaces. The main feature, result of a joined research of El.En S.p.A. and National Research Council laboratories, is the pulse duration (50 - 110 μs). This is located between Q-Switching short-pulse (2-10 ns) mode and those with Normal Free Running long pulse 200-1000 μs. With this laser the cleaning procedures are optimized and at the same time side effects and invasiveness on the art works are reduced to a minimum. The operator also has a high degree of control, precision and strategic selectivity, essential for restorations on valuable and modeled surfaces. The laser beam transport system envisages a 50metre long optic fiber, making this laser optimal for use on scaffoldings in restoration yards. The spot diameter, included between 2 and 8 mm, allows for resolving with extreme ease every possible requirement, as well as obtaining a high level of efficiency and productivity. System features Wavelength: 1064 nm Pulse duration: 50 ÷ 110 μs Maximum energy per pulse: 2 J Energy: selectable between: 200 ÷ 1400 mJ (step 100 mJ), 1600 ÷ 1800 - 2000 mJ Repetition frequency: selectable between single pulses, 1÷10 Hz, 15 Hz, 20 Hz, 30 Hz Spot: 1.5 - 9 mm Beam delivering: optic fibre 1000 μm long up to 50 m Handpiece: variable focus, with beam guide Beam profile: homogeneous Power supplyInput: 230 V - 50/60 Hz, 12 A Dimensions: 92x33x75 cm Nd:YA G laser shutter: pedal-controlled by the operator Weight: 80 kg Cooling circuit: sealed with heat exchanger (air/ liquid) Aiming beam laser HeNe 1 mW (632.8 nm)
DW 400GS Nd:YAG LASER WELDER
A brand new, extremely interesting field of laser technology application opening up in the world of conservation involves its use in the restoration of jewellery and precious metals. In fact, laser technology allows for direct welding of the two edges, and the use of metal alloys with the same title. Due to its extremely reduced heat diffusion, lasers also allow for carrying out welding in the presence of other materials or components (enamels, collets, hinges, etc.), with the objects to be welded being held directly in your hands. This makes it especially suited for the restoration of antique jewels with a considerably complex nature and composition. El.En. s.p.a has designed a special laser welding model for this purpose, the DW 400 GS, an extremely versatile instrument, particularly suited for precision operations calling for an elevated degree of accuracy. On request, a model with a mobile welding head can also be supplied, to be assembled onto the special arm drive for carrying out welding operations on very large objects as well. The DW 400 GS welder has been used at the Opificio delle Pietre Dure (Precious Stone Museum) for the restoration of a Sicilian baroque monstrance in gold and silver with enamels and precious stones. The DW 400 GS is currently being used for the conservative restoration of a panel of the Door of Paradise of the Baptistery in Florence. System features Wavelength: 1064 nm Maximum power: 60 W Maximum energy per single pulse: 80 J Pulse lenght: 1÷25 ms NOTE : the value indicated may be diminished by means of the PULSE FILL option Frequency: single pulse, 0.5÷10 Hz, step 0.1 Hz Voltage: 200 V, 450 V, step 10 V Storable programmes: 15 Power supply voltage: 230 Vac, 50-60 Hz, 16 A: Maximum absorbed electrical power: 3680 VA Dimensions: 70x90x122 cm Weight: 97 kg Sound level: <70 Db Cooling circuit: sealed with heat exchanger (air/liquid) External connections: gas 1 and 2 openings, compressed air, interlock, footswitch, exhaust fan
LASER CLEANING USE PROTOCOL
The physical process via which the laser cleaning is performed is defined as the ablation process. Ablation, which can be likened to an extremely rapid vaporization of the material to be removed, is characterized by a fluence (density of energy per surface unit) threshold, intended as the lowest limit below which the laser will not have any effect. On the contrary, fluence values that are too high may give rise to undesired removal of the patina or substrate underneath the deterioration horizons. Since laser cleaning is one of the best methods for obtaining efficacious, and at the same time extremely gradual results, in full respect of the artwork, like historic films and patina, it is therefore vital for the operator to be able to directly define the necessary operating interval of the laser fluence. The proposal of a preliminary measurement protocol envisages the performing of ablation tests on the nature and thickness of the deterioration to be removed on very limited areas in relation to large and important sites, with the observing of the results through a portable microscope (30x). The following steps should be carried out: - attach the laser handpiece to a tripod for example, in order to be able to maintain unvaried the distance from the surface of the irradiation area; - calculate the dimensions of the laser spot so as to be able to calculate the fluence; - set the laser repetition frequency and irradiation time; - perform adjacent ablation spots per increasing energy laser values. In this way, even without the aid of specific instrumentation, the restorer will be able to identify the parameters of the laser cleaning in complete safety, defining the interval of the values included between the threshold of what has to be removed and what has to be preserved.
EOS 1000 LOs
The result of the El.En.,Group’s most recent research, the EOS 1000 LQS laser has been designed and created for use in restoration operations that call for a high degree of precision and accuracy, such as frescoes, gilded surfaces, silver and precious metals, wood, and stone objects with great artistic value. The EOS 1000 LQS laser which adopts a special pulse wave – unique and exclusive among those currently available on the market - is the most versatile and practical machine for use on sites and in laboratories, thanks also to its lightweight compact size and high performance. The LQS configuration with energy values of up to 400 mJ, allows the operator to achieve levels of efficiency only previously possible with more complicated instruments, while still maintaining the use of optic fibre and a handpiece with a variable lens. The EOS 1000 LQS laser system is one of the most reliable devices thanks to its efficacy, safety, and range of applications in the conservation of the cultural heritage. The SFR version is also available on request. System features Wavelength: 1064 nm Pulse duration: 60 ÷ 120 μs Maximum energy per pulse: 1 J Energy: selectable between: 50 ÷ 500 mJ (step 50 mJ), 600 ÷ 1000 mJ (step 100) Repetition frequency: selectable between: single pulse, 1÷10 Hz, 15 Hz, 20 Hz Spot: 1.5 - 6 mm Beam delivering: optic fibre 600 mm long, up to 50 m Handpiece: variable focus, with beam guide Beam profile: homogeneous Power supply Input: 230 V - 50/60 Hz, 8 A Dimensions: 59x20x53 cm Nd:YA G laser shutter: pedal-controlled by the operator Weight: 40 kg Cooling circuit: sealed with heat exchanger (air/liquid) Aiming beam: laser HeNe 1 mW (632.8 nm)
THUNDER
Thunder Art is the most technologically advanced laser device in the world of conservation. The El.En. Group’s research activities have aimed at improving the performance and efficiency while still maintaining the most compact size, simplifying to a maximum the structure and operator interface. Thunder Art replaces and integrates the El.En. Group’s entire QS short-pulse laser line. Thunder Art is in fact an extremely versatile platform that can be adapted to all the operator’s requirements. Every possible configuration is now enclosed in only two components: the laser head and the power supply and cooling unit. There are also more powerful versions available with the same system structure but which progressively reach up to as many as three wavelengths. In particular, while the laser head is even smaller than in the previous models, it is still extremely strong and completely waterproof (IP 65), and a special jointed arm is used for all the wavelengths. The 1064 nm version of Thunder Art is especially suited to operate on a wide variety of materials including wood, textiles, glass, ceramics etc., and also on very extensive architectural surfaces. The configuration of Thunder Art with several wavelengths has been designed to offer research laboratories an even more reliable instrument with a far greater performance than in the previous versions. SyStem featureS Wavelength: 1064 nm Pulse duration: almost 8 ns energy: selectable between: 50 ÷ 500 mJ (step 50 mJ), 600 ÷ 1000 - 2000 mJ (step 100) energy @ 1064 nm = 1 J energy @ 532 nm = 500 mJ energy @ 355 nm = 200 mJ frequency: up to 20 Hz Beam diameter: 10 mm Working temperature: 10 - 40 °C Input: 220 Vac, 16 a
BRAMANTE
This is the latest invention of the research and development laboratories of the El. En. Group, and in particular, Quanta System S.p.A. The Bramante Laser is currently the most powerful instrument available for restorers for carrying out work on very large surfaces on architectural restoration sites. While the parameters of the system that ensure top quality performance remain the same, the overall operating complexity has been intensified in order to cut the working times. The Bramante laser is the most powerful and fastest laser currently on the market designed for restoration enterprises that have to work on complex and extensive surfaces. The Bramante system now makes laser Operations more competitive and advantageous compared to traditional cleaning systems. The Bramante laser has been designed and created with only two components, thereby offering greater compactness and transportability with respect to the Michelangelo laser series. System features Wavelength: 1064 nm Pulse duration: almost 8 ns energy: selectable between: 50 ÷ 500 mJ (step 50 mJ), 600 ÷ 1000 - 1800 mJ (step 100) energy @ 1064 nm = 1 J energy @ 532 nm = 500 mJ energy @ 355 nm = 200 mJ Frequency: up to 20 Hz Beam diameter: 12 mm Working temperature: 10 - 40 °C Input: 220 Vac, 16 a
Note: Laser application on canvas paintings is still experimental. Laser is successfully applied on stone, stucco, wall paintings, gilded surfaces, and wooden artworks.
COMPANY PROFILE
El.En. is the parent company of an international group of companies established for developing and producing laser systems for medicine, industry and scientific research. Since its establishment in 1981, El.En. S.p.A. has constantly increased its turnover, with an extremely rapid growth in production and the acquisition of new markets, when has helped it to attain a leading position on the world market.. Thanks to the internal know-how that has grown continuously over the years, the company has set up numerous production lines in the medical and industrial fields, concentrating primarily on the realization of CO2, Nd:YAG, Holmium, Erbium, Excimer and Dye lasers. The company invests approximately 15% of its annual turnover in research and development of new systems and applications, El.En. makes use of internal graduate and post-graduate researchers who work in close collaboration with numerous universities along with international and national research institutes, like the C.N.R., E.N.E.A. and I.N.O.A. As a result of the experience acquired through the participation with national research groups, since 2000, El.En. S.p.A. has activated an internal production line for laser systems for the world of conservation. In 2005 El.En. S.p.A.. expanded its collaboration with the affiliated company, Quanta System S.p.A., aimed at the integration of products and activities in the sector of cultural heritage.
EXPERIMENTATION
Since being founded El.En. S.p.A. and Quanta System S.p.A. have set up numerous lines of research and development in collaboration with the main national research institutes. The company is now the thirty-second in Italy (published in Sole 24Ore 2007) for investments in applied research and it employs university-degree and PhD researchers who work in close collaboration with numerous universities and national research institutes such as the C.N.R., E.N.E.A. and I.N.O.A. Ongoing experimentation, also in international projects, constantly increases the exchange of knowledge and the growth of internal know-how. The El.En. Group’s commitment in the cultural heritage sector receives constant and direct acclaim from the most important European research and protection institutes. The El.En. Group collaborates with "La Venaria Reale" Conservation and Restoration Centre.
EDUCATION
This activity is carried out by the Scientific Committee of the El.En, Group with the assistance of university professors and researchers from the national research institutes. What is laser? What are its applications in the world of restoration? What are laser diagnostics? The most recent results of scientific research….the most famous and important restoration sites… on-site safety… These are but a few of the issues addressed in educational forms specially prepared for the restoration schools and operators in this sector. The El.En. Group collaborates with the Istituto Europeo del Restauro – Island of Ischia
YARDS
The laser devices of the El.En. Group have been used in the most important restoration works including: the Prophet Abacuc by Donatello, the Door of the Mandorla and loggia of the Cupola of the Cathedral of S. Maria del Fiore, the Rape of the Sabines by Giambologna, the Door of Paradise of the Baptistery, Verrocchio’s David and Donatello’s Attis in the National Bargello Museum in Florence, the Gaia Fountain by Jacopo della Quercia and the cycle of frescoes in the Old Sacristy and Manto Chapel of S. Maria alla Scala in Siena, the Leaning Tower and the Door of S. Ranieri of the Cathedral in Pisa, Teodorico’s Mausoleum in Ravenna, the façade of the Certosa in Pavia, the loggia of the Ducal Palace in Venice, the Paolina Chapel of the Palazzi Apostolici in the Vatican, the Cathedral of Lugarno (CH), the basreliefs of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, the Cloister of the Cathedral in Oviedo, the Cloister of the National Sculpture Museum in Valladolid, the door of the Cathedral in Majorca, Spain, Diocletian’s Palace in Split and the door of the Cathedral in Dubrovnik, Croatia. The El.En. Group is contributing towards the restoration of Donatello’s David at the National Bargello Museum in Florence, having provided an Eos 1000 SFR laser device for recovering the gilded bronze surfaces of the statue.
LASER
In just over a few decades, since its first realization by T. H. Maiman in 1960, lasers have found numerous fields of application, from medicine to industry, aesthetic surgery to decorative arts, scientific research to environmental monitoring. This is all thanks to the physical characteristics of the beam of laser light: monochromaticity, spatial and temporal coherence, unidirectionality and elevated brilliance. A beam of light is obtained when in the hand of mankind becomes an extremely flexible instrument capable of adapting to a wide range of uses. The advantages common to all lasers consist of its extreme control precision, limited invasiveness, absence of mechanical stress due to the absence of physical contact with the target, elevated degree of integration in internal processes, silence, the possibility of limiting or eliminating chemical aids, and the possibility of selectively interacting only on specific components of organic and inorganic material. Thanks to these features, laser offers great advantages in the industrial field, from a technological and economic point of view, reducing operating times and also improving product quality. The first use in the medical field dates back to 1962 when a ruby laser was used for resealing the retina. It was however, with the advent of the CO2 laser that the field was opened up for a myriad of surgical applications. Today this instrument is widely used in all medical fields, thanks to the constant technological research and ever-increasing understanding of the interaction phenomena between the laser light and the tissues.
LASER FOR ARTISTIC RESTORATION
The demand is growing for increasingly more accurate cleaning techniques for conserving the cultural heritage, capable of offering an elevated selectivity and minimum impact on the original structure of the art works. Laser proposes a solution to meet this requirement as they offer the restorer a new instrument, which can be integrated with the current mechanical and chemical means. Adopting the laser, therefore, meets the growing need for technical adaptation, induced by the new regulations and ever-increasing demand for laser use by public institutions safeguarding the cultural heritage. Thanks to the ongoing research, the field of application on different materials is becoming wider and wider. The use of lasers, both, on stone surfaces of individual monuments and surfaces of historic buildings is now affirmed and a widely accepted restoration process. As a result of constant commitment to internal research and development, El.En. S.p.A.’s products have for years been contributing towards the conservation of the cultural and artistic heritage. Developed in collaboration with the most important national research centers and verified at the most important restoration sites, extremely innovative solutions have been proposed. The new collaboration combines 10 years of experience from Quanta System S.p.A. with the activities of El.En. S.p.A.'s cultural heritage along with the activities of El.En. S.p.A. Performing in close contact with Florence University researchers, from the scientific center, the provision of cutting-edge technological solutions, which are constantly validated by the world of conservation, are used.
BLACK BOX
Arte Black Box is a device especially designed and created to record Information regarding the transportation of artworks. By memorizing the humidity, temperature, pressure, lighting, and acceleration values on the three axes, Arte Black Box controls and guarantees that artworks are not subjected to any damage during transport. Arte Black Box, which does not emit electromagnetic radiations, can be mounted on any type of bracket and used on all types of vehicles. The autonomy of Art Black Box is approximately 30 days, and its memory allows for recording up to 4 GB of data. The user can extract and replace the power supply unit. On request the user can also mount up to 18 sensors. All the volumes monitored have a sensitivity and accuracy well within the limits enforced by European museum standards. Arte Black Box comes with software that allows for setting the data to be recorded, checking the correct operation of the system, and downloading and analyzing the data recorded, even remotely. The software enables selection of the most significant parameters in order to provide the user with an immediate synthesis of the most important events occurring during the data recording. System features: Input number: up to 18 sensors Sampling rate: programmable, up to 100 Hz Memory capability: secure digital memory card, up to 4 Gb Stand by time: up to 360 h(1) Connectivity: USB -uHf -GPrS -IrDA -rS232 Integrated sensors type: temperature, humidity, pressure, visible light, Ir light, uV light, rGB light, triaxis accelleration
There are four main advantages in using laser technology to clean the surfaces of historic and artistic interest: Minimum invasiveness The laser is characterised, first and foremost, by the absence of physical contact between the instrument and the surfaces to be treated. This allows operating on extremely fragile or heavily altered surfaces, even before consolidation. Moreover, acting directly on the surfaces, lase do not require the addition of abrasive materials or the use of chemical agents. Laser cleaning only requires - where permitted by the conditions of the art work a slight dampening of the surface to be treated with water. A high degree of control The removal of the deteriorated layer can be gauged in such a way as to involve only a few microns of thickness per single pulse, permitting the depth to be reached with utmost precision. Selectivity Lasers exploit the physical principle of the different light absorption coefficient by the various materials depending on their color. The altered layer to be removed, in the majority of cases involving black or very dark colors, absorbs the light completely, allowing for an almost instantaneous laser removal process (ablation). Vice-versa, the substrate of the material to be preserved, usually lighter tones, reflects the light to a much greater degree, consequently limiting or impeding the laser action. High precision The cleaning process only involves the area illuminated by the laser beam, without any mechanical or heat effects on the surrounding areas. Moreover, lasers that use optic fibers allow for treating even considerably complex modeled surfaces. The use of the variable focus handpiece offers additional flexibility of use, at the same time allowing for the treatment of large surface areas, or precision working on extremely minute details.
WIRELESS REMOTE CONTROÑ
Forever intent on solving operating problems on restoration sites, El.En. S.p.A. has now created the Bluetooth control panel for its line laser devices for restoration. An ergonomic system especially designed and manufactured for integrating and completing all the advantages of using optic fibre laser systems for restoration. In this way the restorer operating within a radius of ten meters no longer needs to move the laser system. Once the laser is switched on, all the necessary Operations are set by the control panel. The long autonomy allows the Bluetooth control panel to keep operating well beyond the day’s work on site. System features Bluetooth system Max. use range: 10 meters Connection possibility: open Modifies parameters in real time Controls: energy frequency, laser system operability Remote alarm management Autonomy: more than 24 hours (internal rechargeable Ni-MH battery) Inbuilt battery charger Weight: 200g Will not interfere with any other electronic devices, even wireless.
SMART CLEAN II
Smart Clean II is an Innovative laser system, designed to clean stone surfaces. The main feature, result of a joined research of El.En S.p.A. and National Research Council laboratories, is the pulse duration (50 - 110 μs). This is located between Q-Switching short-pulse (2-10 ns) mode and those with Normal Free Running long pulse 200-1000 μs. With this laser the cleaning procedures are optimized and at the same time side effects and invasiveness on the art works are reduced to a minimum. The operator also has a high degree of control, precision and strategic selectivity, essential for restorations on valuable and modeled surfaces. The laser beam transport system envisages a 50metre long optic fiber, making this laser optimal for use on scaffoldings in restoration yards. The spot diameter, included between 2 and 8 mm, allows for resolving with extreme ease every possible requirement, as well as obtaining a high level of efficiency and productivity. System features Wavelength: 1064 nm Pulse duration: 50 ÷ 110 μs Maximum energy per pulse: 2 J Energy: selectable between: 200 ÷ 1400 mJ (step 100 mJ), 1600 ÷ 1800 - 2000 mJ Repetition frequency: selectable between single pulses, 1÷10 Hz, 15 Hz, 20 Hz, 30 Hz Spot: 1.5 - 9 mm Beam delivering: optic fibre 1000 μm long up to 50 m Handpiece: variable focus, with beam guide Beam profile: homogeneous Power supplyInput: 230 V - 50/60 Hz, 12 A Dimensions: 92x33x75 cm Nd:YA G laser shutter: pedal-controlled by the operator Weight: 80 kg Cooling circuit: sealed with heat exchanger (air/ liquid) Aiming beam laser HeNe 1 mW (632.8 nm)
DW 400GS Nd:YAG LASER WELDER
A brand new, extremely interesting field of laser technology application opening up in the world of conservation involves its use in the restoration of jewellery and precious metals. In fact, laser technology allows for direct welding of the two edges, and the use of metal alloys with the same title. Due to its extremely reduced heat diffusion, lasers also allow for carrying out welding in the presence of other materials or components (enamels, collets, hinges, etc.), with the objects to be welded being held directly in your hands. This makes it especially suited for the restoration of antique jewels with a considerably complex nature and composition. El.En. s.p.a has designed a special laser welding model for this purpose, the DW 400 GS, an extremely versatile instrument, particularly suited for precision operations calling for an elevated degree of accuracy. On request, a model with a mobile welding head can also be supplied, to be assembled onto the special arm drive for carrying out welding operations on very large objects as well. The DW 400 GS welder has been used at the Opificio delle Pietre Dure (Precious Stone Museum) for the restoration of a Sicilian baroque monstrance in gold and silver with enamels and precious stones. The DW 400 GS is currently being used for the conservative restoration of a panel of the Door of Paradise of the Baptistery in Florence. System features Wavelength: 1064 nm Maximum power: 60 W Maximum energy per single pulse: 80 J Pulse lenght: 1÷25 ms NOTE : the value indicated may be diminished by means of the PULSE FILL option Frequency: single pulse, 0.5÷10 Hz, step 0.1 Hz Voltage: 200 V, 450 V, step 10 V Storable programmes: 15 Power supply voltage: 230 Vac, 50-60 Hz, 16 A: Maximum absorbed electrical power: 3680 VA Dimensions: 70x90x122 cm Weight: 97 kg Sound level: <70 Db Cooling circuit: sealed with heat exchanger (air/liquid) External connections: gas 1 and 2 openings, compressed air, interlock, footswitch, exhaust fan
LASER CLEANING USE PROTOCOL
The physical process via which the laser cleaning is performed is defined as the ablation process. Ablation, which can be likened to an extremely rapid vaporization of the material to be removed, is characterized by a fluence (density of energy per surface unit) threshold, intended as the lowest limit below which the laser will not have any effect. On the contrary, fluence values that are too high may give rise to undesired removal of the patina or substrate underneath the deterioration horizons. Since laser cleaning is one of the best methods for obtaining efficacious, and at the same time extremely gradual results, in full respect of the artwork, like historic films and patina, it is therefore vital for the operator to be able to directly define the necessary operating interval of the laser fluence. The proposal of a preliminary measurement protocol envisages the performing of ablation tests on the nature and thickness of the deterioration to be removed on very limited areas in relation to large and important sites, with the observing of the results through a portable microscope (30x). The following steps should be carried out: - attach the laser handpiece to a tripod for example, in order to be able to maintain unvaried the distance from the surface of the irradiation area; - calculate the dimensions of the laser spot so as to be able to calculate the fluence; - set the laser repetition frequency and irradiation time; - perform adjacent ablation spots per increasing energy laser values. In this way, even without the aid of specific instrumentation, the restorer will be able to identify the parameters of the laser cleaning in complete safety, defining the interval of the values included between the threshold of what has to be removed and what has to be preserved.
EOS 1000 LOs
The result of the El.En.,Group’s most recent research, the EOS 1000 LQS laser has been designed and created for use in restoration operations that call for a high degree of precision and accuracy, such as frescoes, gilded surfaces, silver and precious metals, wood, and stone objects with great artistic value. The EOS 1000 LQS laser which adopts a special pulse wave – unique and exclusive among those currently available on the market - is the most versatile and practical machine for use on sites and in laboratories, thanks also to its lightweight compact size and high performance. The LQS configuration with energy values of up to 400 mJ, allows the operator to achieve levels of efficiency only previously possible with more complicated instruments, while still maintaining the use of optic fibre and a handpiece with a variable lens. The EOS 1000 LQS laser system is one of the most reliable devices thanks to its efficacy, safety, and range of applications in the conservation of the cultural heritage. The SFR version is also available on request. System features Wavelength: 1064 nm Pulse duration: 60 ÷ 120 μs Maximum energy per pulse: 1 J Energy: selectable between: 50 ÷ 500 mJ (step 50 mJ), 600 ÷ 1000 mJ (step 100) Repetition frequency: selectable between: single pulse, 1÷10 Hz, 15 Hz, 20 Hz Spot: 1.5 - 6 mm Beam delivering: optic fibre 600 mm long, up to 50 m Handpiece: variable focus, with beam guide Beam profile: homogeneous Power supply Input: 230 V - 50/60 Hz, 8 A Dimensions: 59x20x53 cm Nd:YA G laser shutter: pedal-controlled by the operator Weight: 40 kg Cooling circuit: sealed with heat exchanger (air/liquid) Aiming beam: laser HeNe 1 mW (632.8 nm)
THUNDER
Thunder Art is the most technologically advanced laser device in the world of conservation. The El.En. Group’s research activities have aimed at improving the performance and efficiency while still maintaining the most compact size, simplifying to a maximum the structure and operator interface. Thunder Art replaces and integrates the El.En. Group’s entire QS short-pulse laser line. Thunder Art is in fact an extremely versatile platform that can be adapted to all the operator’s requirements. Every possible configuration is now enclosed in only two components: the laser head and the power supply and cooling unit. There are also more powerful versions available with the same system structure but which progressively reach up to as many as three wavelengths. In particular, while the laser head is even smaller than in the previous models, it is still extremely strong and completely waterproof (IP 65), and a special jointed arm is used for all the wavelengths. The 1064 nm version of Thunder Art is especially suited to operate on a wide variety of materials including wood, textiles, glass, ceramics etc., and also on very extensive architectural surfaces. The configuration of Thunder Art with several wavelengths has been designed to offer research laboratories an even more reliable instrument with a far greater performance than in the previous versions. SyStem featureS Wavelength: 1064 nm Pulse duration: almost 8 ns energy: selectable between: 50 ÷ 500 mJ (step 50 mJ), 600 ÷ 1000 - 2000 mJ (step 100) energy @ 1064 nm = 1 J energy @ 532 nm = 500 mJ energy @ 355 nm = 200 mJ frequency: up to 20 Hz Beam diameter: 10 mm Working temperature: 10 - 40 °C Input: 220 Vac, 16 a
BRAMANTE
This is the latest invention of the research and development laboratories of the El. En. Group, and in particular, Quanta System S.p.A. The Bramante Laser is currently the most powerful instrument available for restorers for carrying out work on very large surfaces on architectural restoration sites. While the parameters of the system that ensure top quality performance remain the same, the overall operating complexity has been intensified in order to cut the working times. The Bramante laser is the most powerful and fastest laser currently on the market designed for restoration enterprises that have to work on complex and extensive surfaces. The Bramante system now makes laser Operations more competitive and advantageous compared to traditional cleaning systems. The Bramante laser has been designed and created with only two components, thereby offering greater compactness and transportability with respect to the Michelangelo laser series. System features Wavelength: 1064 nm Pulse duration: almost 8 ns energy: selectable between: 50 ÷ 500 mJ (step 50 mJ), 600 ÷ 1000 - 1800 mJ (step 100) energy @ 1064 nm = 1 J energy @ 532 nm = 500 mJ energy @ 355 nm = 200 mJ Frequency: up to 20 Hz Beam diameter: 12 mm Working temperature: 10 - 40 °C Input: 220 Vac, 16 a
