Numerical simulation of free-surface evolution in laser polishing of 100 Cr6 bearing steel

Abstract

Abstract This research focuses on the laser surface polishing process of 100 Cr6, employing a moving Gaussian heat source. It establishes a two-dimensional transient model for laser polishing, taking into account the integrated effects of fluid flow and temperature fields, as well as the combined influence of capillary and thermocapillary forces. The model was used to perform numerical simulations to study the evolution of surface morphology during the laser polishing process. The investigation specifically examines how laser power and scanning speed influence the quality of the polishing outcome. The results demonstrate that an optimal surface roughness of approximately 0.571 μm is attained at a laser power setting of 200 W and a scanning speed of 300 mm/s.