Laser assisted micro-milling of hard-to-machine materials

There is a need for developing hybrid micro-manufacturing processes capable of generating three-dimensional micro-scale features in hard-to-machine materials. This paper deals with the development of the laser assisted micro-milling process for which a novel 4-axis machine has been designed and built. This paper presents the results of experiments on laser assisted micro-milling of hardened A2 tool steel (62 HRc). The dimensional accuracy of the micro-milled feature and surface finish obtained with and without laser heating are compared and discussed. Scientific explanations for the different observations are given.