Laser micro-milling under a thin and flowing water layer: A new concept of liquid-assisted laser machining process

Abstract

This study proposes a new laser micro-milling technique for minimizing the thermal damage and gaining a higher material removal rate than using the laser alone. A low-pressure waterjet was used to impinge on the workpiece surface in order to form a thin water film, where the laser ablation was made underneath the water layer created. According to the findings, the presented technique can introduce a great reduction in heat-affected zone and significantly increase the cavity depth compared to the other laser milling processes. Experimental analyses and potential use of this new machining technique were also given and discussed.