Laser

Question 1

short pulse vs long pulse lasers

Answer 1

long pulse:
- melting
- vaporisation
- micro cracking
- damaged surface

short pulse:
- no debris or microcrackes
- direct solid-vapour transition (none to surrounding material)
- much slower removal rate

Question 2

application of lasers

Answer 2

Melting (long):
- surface treatment
- marking
- welding

vaporisation (short):
- drilling
- cutting
- milling/texturing/engraving

Question 3

How is laser assisted machining useful

Answer 3

• heated surface = material is softened
• easier cutting
• controlled temperature

Question 4

What are the limitations to laser drilling

Answer 4

• limited depth
• tapered walls
• presence of recast layer
• sharp corners
• expensive, high energy consumption