Springer Verlag, International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology, 1-4(74), p. 219-224
DOI: 10.1007/s00170-014-5958-5
Full text: Unavailable
Laser-assisted machining (LAM) is a promising technique to improve the machinability of various difficult-to-machine materials such as steels, nickel and titanium alloys and metal-matrix composites. Most of the research studies are focused on analyzing the effect of various cutting parameters such as cutting speeds, feed rates and depth of cut at a constant laser power despite being reported that the maximum benefit of the LAM technique can be realised when all parameters including laser power are optimised. Therefore, the primary objective of this paper is to assess the effect of laser power on the cutting temperature and cutting forces including force fluctuations during the machining of Ti10V2Fe3Al alloy. A cutting force reduction of at least 10 % was found using the assistance of a 1,600 W laser beam between cutting speeds of 55-140 m/min. Nevertheless, it was concluded that a power of 800-1200 W for the laser beam is best suited during LAM of Ti10V2Fe3Al alloy within a cutting speed range of 55-100 m/min. Further, higher cutting speeds were recommended when employing a higher power laser beam to avoid problems such as chatter and chip pile-up.