Numerical Simulation of Ablative Damage in Gas-Assisted Laser Processing of Wood

Abstract

To reduce defects in wood laser processing, this study establishes a multi-field coupling model that reflects the coupling relationship between laser energy, auxiliary gas, and slit quality. It reveals the temperature field distribution and heat transfer during this process at a macroscopic level. Using the COMSOL Multiphysics 5.6 software to simulate laser processing with or without helium gas assistance, we show that helium-assisted laser processing positively affects the quality of wood processing. We further researched the influence of different laser powers and spot radii on ablation damage volume and gasification volume, and the results indicate that the adopted model effectively simulates the influence of laser power and auxiliary gas on laser cutting ability, accurately reflecting the impact of different process parameters on cutting depth and kerf width. The accuracy and effectiveness of this model were validated through comparison with experimental data. This research enhances process reliability and economic benefits through numerical simulation and prediction, expands theoretical research and engineering applications in the laser processing field, and optimizes and innovates wood processing technology. It provides a promising method for enhancing the added value of wood products and efficiently using wood resources.