Grey Relational Analysis Based Optimization of Underwater Nd: YAG Laser Micro-channeling on PMMA

Abstract

Laser based micro-channeling is emerging as the most widely used process for fabrication of polymer based micro-fluidic devices. Nd:YAG lasers are one of the most favoured laser system by industries involved in laser based material processing. However, they have not been fully explored for micro-level processing. In this research work, Nd:YAG laser has been utilized in fabrication of micro-channels on PMMA in underwater condition. The input parameters have been chosen as lamp current, scanning speed, pulse frequency and pulse width. Depth, burr height and burr width of the micro-channel have been taken as output quality characteristics. Taguchi methodology in combination with grey relational analysis has been employed to determine the optimal parametric condition for satisfying multiple objectives at same time. Underwater laser processing has resulted in minimization of undesirable effects of laser processing like heat affected zone and redeposition around the micro-channels resulting in cleaner and finer structure than open air processing.