Laser modification of the end of thin metal tube

Abstract

Thin metal tubes used for catheter, nozzle and/or filter require smoothly-rounded ends. To produce the tube, it is cut at an appropriate length first and then the end is polished mechanically. The smaller the diameter, the more difficult it becomes to finish it. Then, a basic study on the modification of the end of thin metal tube using laser technique is conducted. Thin stainless steel and copper tubes of diameters nearly 0.5 mm and 1.0 mm with thicknesses nearly 0.15 mm are used as the specimens. A pulsed YAG laser is irradiated at the end of the tube to modify the sharp edge. Results show that suitable combinations of laser irradiating conditions can create smoothly-rounded ends. It was also found that smooth capping of the end can be carried out by the technique.Thin metal tubes used for catheter, nozzle and/or filter require smoothly-rounded ends. To produce the tube, it is cut at an appropriate length first and then the end is polished mechanically. The smaller the diameter, the more difficult it becomes to finish it. Then, a basic study on the modification of the end of thin metal tube using laser technique is conducted. Thin stainless steel and copper tubes of diameters nearly 0.5 mm and 1.0 mm with thicknesses nearly 0.15 mm are used as the specimens. A pulsed YAG laser is irradiated at the end of the tube to modify the sharp edge. Results show that suitable combinations of laser irradiating conditions can create smoothly-rounded ends. It was also found that smooth capping of the end can be carried out by the technique.