Laser-assisted machining has been considered as an alternative for difficult-to-machine
materials such as metallic alloys and ceramics. Machining of some materials such as
high chromium alloys and high strength steels is still a delicate and challenging task.
Conventional machines or computer numerical control (CNC) machines and cutting
tools cannot adapt easily to such materials and induce very high costs for operations of
rough machining or finishing. If laser-assisted machining can be implemented
successfully for such materials, it will offer several advantages over the traditional
methods including longer tool life, shorter machining time and reduced overall costs.
This thesis presents the results of the research conducted on laser assisted machining of
hard to wear materials used in making heavy duty mineral processing equipment for the
mining industry. Experimental set up using a high power Nd:YAG laser beam attached
to a lathe has been developed to machine these materials using cubic boron nitride
(CBN) based cutting tools. The laser beam was positioned so that it was heating a point
on the surface of the workpiece directly before it passed under the cutting tool. Cutting
forces were measured during laser assisted machining and were compared to those
measured during conventional machining.
Results from the experiments show that with the right cutting parameters and laser beam
position, laser assisted machining results in a reduction in cutting forces compared to
conventional machining.
A mathematical thermal model was used to predict temperatures within the workpiece at
depths under the laser beam spot. The model was used to determine the effect of
various cutting and laser parameters on the temperature profile within the workpiece.
This study shows that laser assisted machining of hard to wear materials such as high
chromium white cast iron shows potential as a possible economical alternative to
conventional machining methods. Further research is needed before it can be
introduced in industry as an alternative to conventional machining.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:ADTP/216618 |
| Date | January 2006 |
| Creators | Armitage, Kelly, n/a |
| Publisher | Swinburne University of Technology. |
| Source Sets | Australiasian Digital Theses Program |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Rights | http://www.swin.edu.au/), Copyright Kelly Armitage |
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