Experimental research methods for CO2 laser cutting of HARDOX400 steel

Abstract

he laser beam is a source of radiation with concentrated energy. The characteristics of the laser beam (spot energy, focal spot diameter, spot temperature) are aspects theoretically researched in this paper. The intensity of the laser beam transmitted to the surface of the part has a Gaussian shape. A CO2 laser was used in the processing of parts from a HARDOX400 steel sheet with a thickness g = 8mm. The values of the cutting parameters were established by sample tests. An experimental design with 27 observations was analyzed. The width of the cutting slot at the straight profile was measured. Physical quantities derived from the cutting parameters and working parameters used were calculated. Spot energy, cost and interaction time were determined and evaluated using the mathematical model given by GRAPH. The research findings show that the best values of the factors studied converge to average values in minimizing Kerf.