Laser beam machining (LBM) is one of the most widely used thermal energy based non-contact type advance machining process which can be applied for almost whole range of materials. Laser beam is focussed for melting and vaporizing the unwanted material from the parent material. It is suitable for geometrically complex profile cutting and making miniature holes in sheetmetal. Among various type of lasers used for machining in industries, CO2 and Nd:YAG lasers are most established. In recent years, researchers have explored a number of ways to improve the LBM process performance by analysing the different factors that affect the quality characteristics. The experimental and theoretical studies show that process performance can be improved considerably by proper selection of laser parameters, material parameters and operating parameters. This paper reviews the research work carried out so far in the area of LBM of different materials and shapes. It reports about the experimental and theoretical studies of LBM to improve the process performance. Several modelling and optimization techniques for the determination of optimum laser beam cutting condition have been critically examined. The last part of this paper discusses the LBM developments and outlines the trend for future research.

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Laser beam machining—A review

Optimization of kerf quality during pulsed laser cutting of aluminium alloy sheet

Effect of laser cutting on microstructure and on magnetic properties of grain non-oriented electrical steels

A model for calculating the three-dimensional stationary geometric shape of the cutting front for laser fusion cutting is presented in this paper. The model relates the cut kerf geometry with the cut-through depth, various laser parameters such as power, speed, focus position and material thickness. In this model, the energy absorbed by the workpiece includes not only the direct energy from the laser beam but also the energy from the multiple reflections generated by the beam impinging on the cutting front of the cut kerf. The effects of multiple reflections are functions of the inclined angle of the cutting front and the cutting depth. The effects of various laser processing parameters, multiple reflections and inert gas pressure on the geometric shape of the cutting front have been analysed systematically and in detail. The model allows accurate prediction of the cut-through depth and cut-edge quality for a given set of process parameters. It also helps to explain the effect of focal position, cut-assist pressure and other parameters upon the cut-edge quality.

https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/0022-3727/34/14/308/pdf

Modelling the laser fusion cutting process: I. Mathematical modelling of the cut kerf geometry for laser fusion cutting of thick metal

Cutting Front Formation in Laser Cutting

A quantitative analysis of cutting thin stainless steel sheets with cw CO 2 lasers using an oxygen gas jet assist is reported. Results are interpreted theoretically using a point source model.

J.N. Gonsalves

Papers

CO2 laser cutting of thin metal sheets with gas jet assist