CO2 laser cutting of triangular geometry in aluminum foam

Abstract

In laser cutting process, thermal stress is formed around the cut edges, which becomes important for the geometries having the corners. In the present study, laser cutting of triangular shape in aluminum foam is carried out. Temperature and stress fields are predicted using a finite element method in line with experimental conditions. Metallurgical and morphological changes in the cut sections are examined incorporating scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy. It is found that the cut sections are free from defects such as sideways burning and large-scale burrs. von Mises stress is high in the corners of the triangular-shaped laser cut workpieces.