Modelling of high-density laser-material interaction using fast level set method

Abstract

A high-energy-density laser beam-material interaction process has been simulated considering a self-evolving liquid-vapour interface profile. A mathematical scheme called the level-set technique has been adopted to capture the transient liquid-vapour interface. Inherent to this technique are: the ability to simulate merger and splitting of the liquid-vapour interface and the simultaneous updating of the surface normal and the curvature. Unsteady heat transfer and fluid flow phenomena are modelled, considering the thermo-capillary effect and the recoil pressure. A kinetic Knudsen layer has been considered to simulate evaporation phenomena at the liquid-vapour interface. Also, the homogeneous boiling phenomenon near the critical point is implemented. Energy distribution inside the vapour cavity is computed considering multiple reflection phenomena. The effect of laser power on the material removal mode, liquid layer thickness, surface temperature and the evaporation speed are presented and discussed.