Abstract
Kevlar laminates are difficult to machine using conventional machining methods because of their thermal and mechanical properties. Laser cutting offers advantages over conventional machining methods, such as precision of operation, non-frictional processing, and operational cost. This provides the motivation for the present study, which reports on laser cutting of Kevlar laminates of different thicknesses. The first and second law efficiencies of the cutting process are formulated and predicted in line with the experimental parameters. The laser cut surfaces are examined using optical and electron scanning microscopes. It is demonstrated that the first and second law efficiencies improve at high laser cutting speeds and low laser output power levels. For these conditions parallel sided kerfs with no sideways burning are produced.
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This paper was recommended for publication in revised form by Associate Editor Tong Seop Kim
Bekir Sami Yilbas received his PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Birmingham University. He was awarded the Doctor of Engineering Degree in 2005 by Birmingham University due to his significant contribution to his field of study. He has published 375 journal papers in reputable international journals and presented over 60 papers at international conferences. He has served as an editorial board member of international journals, including the International Journal of Machine Tool and Manufacture Design, Research and Application, International Journal of Subsurface Sensing Technologies and Applications, Journal of Materials Processing Technology, Journal of Achievements in Materials and Manufacturing Engineering, International Journal of Nanomanufacturing, and Archives of Materials Science and Engineering. He has received numerous awards as recognition of his research work.
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Yilbas, B.S., Sahin, A.Z., Chatwin, C. et al. Laser cutting of Kevlar laminates: First and second law analysis. J Mech Sci Technol 25, 855–862 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12206-011-0218-1
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12206-011-0218-1