Dissemin is shutting down on January 1st, 2025

Published in

Springer Verlag, International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology, 9-12(74), p. 1487-1494

DOI: 10.1007/s00170-014-6093-z

Links

Tools

Export citation

Search in Google Scholar

Laser-assisted milling strategies with different cutting tool paths

Journal article published in 2014 by M. J. Bermingham, P. Schaffarzyk, S. Palanisamy ORCID, M. S. Dargusch
This paper is available in a repository.
This paper is available in a repository.

Full text: Download

Green circle
Preprint: archiving allowed
Green circle
Postprint: archiving allowed
Red circle
Published version: archiving forbidden
Data provided by SHERPA/RoMEO

Abstract

Laser-assisted machining (LAM) is becoming recognised as a process that can enhance the machinability of many difficult to machine materials. The process uses a laser beam to heat and soften the workpiece thereby making it easier to cut. While some fundamental research aspects of the process are becoming well understood, one practical challenge facing engineers is to develop a method for using this technology to machine complex components by milling. In particular, there is a requirement to incorporate LAM into current machining environments and with current machining equipment with minimum need for new equipment. In milling processes, the cutter follows a complex predetermined tool path so the challenge for successful laser-assisted milling is to ensure that the laser beam also follows this tool path and is always heating material directly ahead of the cutter. This paper presents two low-cost methods which can be employed to achieve this. The first method involves using a fixed position laser, a rotating machine table and careful tool path selection. The second method involves using a laser that rotates around the machine spindle which accommodates changes in the cutting direction. Each process is described in detail, and an example is given where a standard CNC milling machine is retrofitted for LAM.