Laser Beam Machining  / Definition, parts, working, advantages, disadvantages of Laser Beam Machining 

Introduction:

Laser beam machining is an also thermo-electric energy based non-traditional machining process, which uses a laser beam to heat a material.  

In this machining process, the metal is removed from the surface of the workpiece by melting and evaporating the metal particles.  

It is a non-traditional machining process in which no tools are used. 

It is used for machining both metallic and non-metallic materials.  

It is mostly used for cutting materials and drilling holes.

See in figure laser beam machining process and their working procedure described below in detail.

Working Procedure of Laser Beam Machining :

1. First, the laser material (CO2) or other gases are filled into the laser vacuum (discharge) tube.  
2. Now let's turn on the power switch, which is connected by the flash lamp. This lamp produces light energy, which is used to excite the electrons of the atom.  
3. The atoms of the laser substance absorb energy from the light energy produced by the flash lamp and it converts the lower energy level of the atomic orbital electron to the higher energy level. This is the unstable state of the atom.
4. This energy is initially completely immersed in the material of the laser. After the atom has absorbed enough energy, it starts emitting energy continuously.  
5. This laser light is collected by the focusing lens which is directed towards the workpiece. 
6. The laser now sent to the workpiece begins to melt or vaporize the surface of the workpiece, and the machining process begins.

Application of Laser Beam Machining :

1. It is used to drill small holes of diameter approximately 0.005 mm in refractory and ceramic materials. 
2. It is used for drilling holes and cutting both metals and non-metals.  
3. It is mostly used in aerospace industries. 
4. Used for complex profiles where machining by the tool is not possible.

Advantages of Laser Beam Machining :

1. It can drill and cut all materials.  
2. High surfaces are obtained in this machining process. 
3. The tool is not used in this machining process.
4. Micro holes can be drilled accurately. 
5. Very hard materials can be cut through laser beam machining. 
6. High accuracy can be achieved.

Disadvantages of Laser Beam Machining  :

1. High capital and maintenance cost. 
2. It cannot be used to make blind holes. 
3. Lasers may lead to a safety hazard.

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