Abstract
This chapter introduces one of the most extensively researched assisted hybrid machining technology—laser-assisted machining (LAM). It has been widely used to machine advanced high strength but classified as hard-to-machine engineering materials in aerospace, automotive, biomedical, and nuclear industries. The chapter starts by briefly outlining the history and basic work principle of LAM. It then introduces the machine configurations for major LAM processes with the focus on the laser-assisted mechanical machining processes, including turning, milling, and grinding. The process configurations of LAM including laser sources, thermal modelling, and process control parameters are explained in detail. The characteristics of LAM processes, including machining mechanism, cutting force, tool wear, attainable surface finish, and surface integrity for major hard-to-machine materials such as titanium alloys, nickel-based alloys, ceramics, and metal–matrix composite are explained. A case study is given to show the process development for laser-assisted grinding of Si3N4 and Al3O2. It concludes with a summary of future research trends on LAM.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Hybrid Machining |
Subtitle of host publication | Theory, Methods, and Case Studies |
Chapter | 3 |
Pages | 43-76 |
Number of pages | 34 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 15 Jun 2018 |
Keywords
- laser-assisted machining
- hard-to-machine materials
- machinability
- surface integrity
- tool wear