Thermal modeling of laser surface micro-texturing: Investigation on effects of laser parameters on dimple-texture dimensions and aspect ratio

Abstract

Micro-texturing on the rake/flank face of the tool to obtain higher service life has emerged as a promising area of research. Micro-texturing assists in reducing contact area, and in-turn lowering wear and frictional heat. There are several methods to obtain micro-textures on tools. However, the quality of micro-texture depends largely on the manufacturing method used. Laser-induced surface texturing has been found more accurate and a cost-effective solution to enhance tribological properties and efficiency of the cutting tool. Ultra-short laser pulses can produce controlled ablation and micro-textures. However, obtaining accurate and ultra-clean micro-textures on cutting tools depends on the type of laser source, set of laser process parameters, and physical and mechanical properties of the cutting tool material. Several ablation models have been developed to predict the optimized set of laser parameters. This paper illustrates the simulation of laser surface texturing with the help of the finite element model and its experimental validation with a fiber laser. Thermal modeling and 2-D laser ablation have been presented for tungsten carbide (WC) tool material. Dimple textures have been created on the side rake face with equidistant spacing. Laser parameters like frequency and power have been varied to investigate their effect on texture dimensions and aspect ratio. Sample experimental validation results have also been discussed presenting the degree of agreement to simulation results.