The effect of nozzle design on laser micro-machining of M2 tool steels

This paper shows how computational techniques have been used to develop axi-symmetric, straight, sonic-line, minimum length micro nozzles that are suitable for laser micro-machining applications. Gas jets are used during laser micro-machining processing applications to shield the interaction zone between laser and workpiece material, and they determine the machining efficiency of such applications. The paper discusses the nature of laser–material interactions and the importance of using computational fluid dynamics to model pressure distributions in short nozzles that are used to deliver gas to the laser–material interaction zone. Experimental results are presented that highlight unique problems associated with laser micro machining using gas jets.