Experimental Evaluation of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastics Machining Modes by Nanosecond Pulsed Ytterbium Fiber Laser

The study tested the problem of effective machining of products made of carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) based on thermosetting binders due to the high level of their strength properties, versatility and ability to provide the minimum product weight. This issue has become relevant at present time. Traditional machining methods (mechanical and hydroabrasive machining) have some significant disadvantages - high tool wear, material delamination due to the vibration and shock loadings, limitations on the cutting contour and others. One of the most promising solutions for eliminating these problems in conventional methods is CFRP laser machining, as it is a non-contact, flexible in operation, efficient machining method. We conducted experimental research to determine the process variables of laser machining of 1 mm thick CFRP with epoxy resins matrix for acceptable heat affected zone (HAZ) and cut channel geometry. We built a set-up on the basis of a widely used in modern industry nanosecond pulsed ytterbium fiber laser with a wavelength of 1.06 microns and an average output power of 20 watts. We developed a method for evaluating the quality of machining. According to the research results, we formulated recommendations on the choice of algorithm and process variables of the machining conditions, providing the required quality of the parts in accordance with the established criteria.

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