Study on multiscale modeling and simulation of liquid-assisted laser beam machining process

Abstract

Liquid-assisted laser beam machining (LA-LBM) process is used as an alternative to existing laser beam machining (LBM) process to address the problems associated with the extreme heat of the laser. In this research, the thermal effects of laser and hydrodynamics effects of the liquid medium in the LA-LBM process are investigated to understand the complex interactions involved in the material removal during LA-LBM process. The study utilizes the versatile multiscale modeling approach by coupling the molecular and continuum domains. The research investigates the role of the water layer in the LA-LBM process along with the material transformations taking place in the water layer in the vicinity of the machined zone. The results of the study augment our existing knowledge of the complex mechanisms involved in the LA-LBM process. Investigation on cavity depth revealed the increase in material removal with the increase in laser heat. The change in water layer thickness revealed the reduction in the radius of the heat-affected zone while further explaining the nodal temperature distribution profile and electron temperature distribution in the water layer.