On-Machine Heat Treatment System Using YAG Laser: Laser Hardening of Micro-Cutting Edge

Abstract

This paper describes the laser hardening of micro-cutting edges using an on-machine heat treatment system with a YAG laser. Various laser conditions were evaluated to perform laser quenching on a machine tool without melting at the edges. We also investigated the influence of the motion accuracy of the machining center on the quenching characteristic of micro-cutting edges after laser irradiation. We clarified that we could quench both the straight and curved corner parts by arranging proper laser irradiation conditions considering the motion accuracy of the machining center.