Title: Laser polishing techniques for roughness improvement on metallic surfaces

Authors: A. Lamikiz, J.A. Sanchez, L.N. Lopez De Lacalle, D. Del Pozo, J.M. Etayo, J.M. Lopez

Addresses: Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of the Basque Country, ETSII-UPV, c/Alameda de Urquijo s/n, Bilbao 48013, Spain. ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of the Basque Country, ETSII-UPV, c/Alameda de Urquijo s/n, Bilbao 48013, Spain. ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of the Basque Country, ETSII-UPV, c/Alameda de Urquijo s/n, Bilbao 48013, Spain. ' Robotiker Technology Centre, Parque Tecnologico, Edif. 202, Zamudio 48170, Spain. ' Robotiker Technology Centre, Parque Tecnologico, Edif. 202, Zamudio 48170, Spain. ' Robotiker Technology Centre, Parque Tecnologico, Edif. 202, Zamudio 48170, Spain

Abstract: Work presented here shows the results of the laser polishing technique. Laser polishing is based on the vapourisation/melting of a microlayer that only affects to the peaks of the surface topography. This process is being used in optical lens and silicon wafers, however the application of this technique on metal surfaces is not significant yet. Laser polishing is a non-contact finishing technique and no tool is required. In addition, it is easy to automate and implement in a commercial machine. Thus, the objective is to develop a metal surface polishing technology focused on die and mould industry. Several tests are presented on different surfaces for two different materials: a 52 HRC DIN 1.2344 tool steel and a laser sintered alloy denominated Laser Form ST100®. Tested surfaces present different initial roughness (ranging from 2.3 to 1.7 µm Ra). After laser polishing tests, high roughness reductions were achieved in all cases.

Keywords: laser polishing; injection moulds; selective laser sintering; SLS; surface roughness; metallic surfaces; tool steels; laser sintered alloys.

DOI: 10.1504/IJNM.2007.014568

International Journal of Nanomanufacturing, 2007 Vol.1 No.4, pp.490 - 498

Published online: 16 Jul 2007 *

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