Effects of Process Parameters on Surface Characteristics in Cutting of Cold Rolled Steel Sheets Using a High-Power CW Nd: YAG Laser

Abstract:

The objective of the present paper is to examine the effects of process parameters, such as laser power, cutting speed of the laser and thickness of the workpiece, on characteristics of the cut section in the cutting of cold rolled steel sheets using a high-power Nd:YAG laser with a continuous wave (CW). From the results of the experiments, the influence of the process parameters on surface roughness and average striation angle has been quantitatively investigated. In addition, critical cutting speeds with a minimum surface roughness and a maximum average striation angle has been obtained. Finally, the optimum cutting conditions for each workpiece thickness have been estimated to improve both the quality of the cut section and the cutting efficiency.