International Journal of Materials and Product Technology · 2004 · 113 citations · 0 references
Laser Processing (Laser Material Processing)EngineeringMetallic Freeform-fabricated PartsMechanical EngineeringSurface IntegrityMetallic PartsNon-tactile LaserSurface PolishingMaterials ScienceSurface RoughnessNon-tactile Finishing MethodsNanomanufacturingSurface FinishingEnergy DensitySurface FinishManufacturing EngineeringLaser-assisted DepositionMetal Forming3D PrintingMicrostructureIndustrial DesignAdvanced Laser ProcessingMicrofabricationMaterial MachiningLaser Processing (Business Administration)Laser-surface InteractionsSurface ProcessingMetal Processing
Freeform fabrication of metallic parts produces surface roughness far beyond acceptable limits for many functional applications. The study investigates non‑tactile laser polishing to improve the surface finish of commercially produced selective laser sintered iron‑copper parts. Laser polishing at energy densities between ~250 and 580 J cm⁻² can reduce surface roughness by up to 37 % of the original Ra, with distinct melting regimes and oxidation effects influencing the outcome.
Metallic parts created using current freeform fabrication processes have an unacceptably high surface finish (Ra » 1:0 mm) for many functional applications. This paper addresses the use of non-tactile laser polishing for surface finishing of commercial selective laser sintered iron±copper parts. A laser polishing window of energy density for roughness reduction up to a 37% of the original Ra value ranged between ~250 and 580 J cm-2. Several surface melting regimes are identified and analysed. The impact of oxidation on surface finish is discussed.