The effect of laser cutting parameters on the formability of complex phase steel

Abstract

An experimental advanced high-strength steel grade CP700 was cut using a matrix of laser process parameters in order to generate an understanding of the influence that traverse cutting speed, power and assist gas pressure have on cut-edge formation. The formation of laser cut-edges has been assessed and related to the heat-affected zone microstructure, kerf perpendicularity, surface roughness and waviness properties. It is these characteristics that are significant towards influencing the hole expansion capacity formability properties of laser cut-edges, which were determined to show significant improvements in the formability when using optimum laser cut-edges. Understanding the effect of laser cutting process parameters on the factors influencing striation formation and microstructural deformations was critical towards being able to produce an optimum level of formability.