Energy Efficiency Assessment of Laser Drilling Process

Abstract

Laser machining is a thermal process with a relatively low energy efficiency, since the material removal mechanism is mostly based either on melting or on vaporization. The laser machining energy efficiency is investigated under two different analyses boundaries: one considering the entire laser system, and the other including only the workpiece – laser beam interaction. For the case of the workpiece – laser beam interaction problem, the laser-drilling process has been selected as the most typical application. The conclusion of both the analysis and the discussion comprise some practical aspects and recommendations for the energy efficient use of laser based processes.