Laser beam machining ( LBM ) process

Laser beam machining process uses highly coherent light source. Laser is a an electro-magnetic radiation. This is a beam of light of same wavelength. This beam can be focused by means of a lens on a very small spot in the work piece. The high power radiation of laser gives rise to high temperature on a small area of work piece. This initiates the cutting process in the work material.

The equipment consists of ruby crystal placed inside a flash lamp. The flash lamp is used to produce high intensity light rays. The ruby crystal is thus simulated and this produces highly spatial laser beam. When the rays hit the work surface it causes partial or complete vaporization of surface material.

• It can be used for melting any type of material.
• The zone of machining is limited.
• Exact location of work surface is achieved.
• Welding dissimilar metals is easy using this process.
• Machining any type of material like metals and non-metals.
  

• It is not suitable for machining highly conductive material in general.
• Very high capital investment is an issue.
• Smaller metal removal is only achieved.
• Machined surfaces are not very perfect.
  

• It can be used to remove minimal material in operations like milling, drilling, boring etc.
• Used to drill holes of smaller diameter in nozzles and other instruments.
• Holes in needles can be made using this process.
• Difficult to machine metals are easily machined.
• Micro level of holes can be machined using LBM.
• Spot welds are achieved in train parts.