Pulsed laser-assisted machining of Inconel 718 superalloy

• Using laser can result in reduction of machining specific energy.
• Surface coarsening and tool wear were reduced by 22% and 23% respectively.
• Flank wear was the main deteriorating factor on cutting tools.
• Frequency of laser beam has the most influential effect on temperature.

Nickel-based superalloys including Inconel 718(IN718) are widely used in aerospace industries due to their superior high temperature strength, toughness, and corrosion resistance. These alloys are difficult to machine mainly because of their low thermal conductivity and high work hardening rate, which cause steep temperature gradient and high cutting forces at the tool edge. The application of laser assisted machining is the subject of many new researches since shear forces; surface coarsening and tool wear are reduced. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate laser assisted machining behavior of a 718 Inconel superalloy from the view point of machining specific energy, surface roughness, tool wear and chip appearance. Experimental apparatuses used included optical and scanning electron microscopy, spark emission spectroscopy, and EDS analysis. The results indicated that increasing the temperature to about 540 °C just ahead of primary shear zone, can result in 35% reduction of machining specific energy, in comparison with conventional machining. Furthermore, surface coarsening and tool wear were reduced by 22% and 23% respectively. Flank wear was the main deteriorating factor on cutting tools during laser assisted machining. SEM micrographs indicated that increase in temperature has no noticeable effect on finished workpiece surface. Analysis of variance obtained from regression analysis indicated that frequency of laser beam has the most influential effect on temperature. The optimum conditions for laser assisted machining of 718 superalloy is suggested as follows: 80 Hz frequency, 400 W power, 24 m/min cutting speed, and 0.052 mm/rev feed rate along with 540 °C temperature, 2.51 J/mm2 machining specific energy and 130 N cutting force.