Laser Micro Manufacturing

Abstract

AbstractLaser processes have been used for specific manufacturing processes already since decades in applications, where conventional could not meet the demands on accuracy and flexibility. However, the share of micro applications within the whole laser market was always a minor one and laser cutting and welding are still dominating the laser application sector. Due to the increasing trend to miniaturization and higher integration of consumer products laser processes become more and more important and laser micro manufacturing is showing the highest market increase. This development is not only fostered by a strong market pull but also due to the availability of very high quality lasers, which allow the specific energy deposition on a micrometer scale at high processing speeds. Lower laser costs, easy installation and low maintenance costs have made lasers to a versatile tool for industrial micro manufacturing processes.