High-quality laser cutting of ceramics through adapted process techniques

Hans Kurt Toenshoff; Martin Gonschior

doi:10.1117/12.167585

1 February 1994 High-quality laser cutting of ceramics through adapted process techniques

Hans Kurt Toenshoff, Martin Gonschior

Proceedings Volume 2062, Lasers as Tools for Manufacturing; (1994) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.167585
Event: Optical Tools for Manufacturing and Advanced Automation, 1993, Boston, MA, United States

Abstract

Laser cutting of ceramics is a promising alternative to conventional machining methods. In this paper, processing results using several lasers and beam guidance optics to cut different oxide and non-oxide ceramics are presented. Adapted process parameters in pulsed mode operation provide high quality cut surfaces at acceptable feed rates. Especially Nd:YAG lasers can be used for cutting extremely brittle ceramics. The use of fiber optics for beam guidance, however, is limited to certain ceramics with high fracture toughness, due to a loss in beam quality. In laser cutting of ceramics, thermally-induced crack damage is one of the main problems preventing a wider use of this method in industry. Several methods were investigated in order to reduce crack formation. Adapted pulse parameters, calculated by a theoretical model, and also a newly-developed process control system lead to a remarkable reduction of crack damage. Crack-free cutting can be obtained by preheating the workpiece above a temperature of 1.100 degree(s)C. Based on these investigations, requirements on laser systems for ceramics cutting are worked out.

Citation Download Citation

Hans Kurt Toenshoff and Martin Gonschior "High-quality laser cutting of ceramics through adapted process techniques", Proc. SPIE 2062, Lasers as Tools for Manufacturing, (1 February 1994); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.167585

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