An analytical model for laser fusion cutting of metals

Abstract

An analytical model has been developed to predict power requirements for laser cutting of metals with a non-reactive assist gas jet. This model is based on the work by Schuocker and Abel (1983) which was developed for cw laser cutting with a reactive assist gas jet. The present model includes power associated with heat conduction through the workpiece, power for melting solid material and the energy content of the ejected molten material. The cw model is also extended to the case of cutting with a pulsed laser where effects of pulse length, laser beam diameter and intensity profile are addressed. Results from cw and pulsed versions of the model are in reasonable agreement with cutting data for Aluminum, Stainless Steel and Titanium. The dependencies of pulsed power conducted through the workpiece on cutting speed, pulse length, kerf width and thickness are also discussed.An analytical model has been developed to predict power requirements for laser cutting of metals with a non-reactive assist gas jet. This model is based on the work by Schuocker and Abel (1983) which was developed for cw laser cutting with a reactive assist gas jet. The present model includes power associated with heat conduction through the workpiece, power for melting solid material and the energy content of the ejected molten material. The cw model is also extended to the case of cutting with a pulsed laser where effects of pulse length, laser beam diameter and intensity profile are addressed. Results from cw and pulsed versions of the model are in reasonable agreement with cutting data for Aluminum, Stainless Steel and Titanium. The dependencies of pulsed power conducted through the workpiece on cutting speed, pulse length, kerf width and thickness are also discussed.