Applications of Nd:YAG laser micromanufacturing in high temperature gas reactor research

► Two innovative applications of Nd:YAG laser micromachining techniques demonstrated. ► Firstly an alumina jig to contain multiple 500 μm diameter ZrO2 spheres. ► Secondly the manufacture of a sealing system using laser micromachining. ► ZrO2 micro plugs isolate the openings of micro-machined cavities to produce a gas-tight seal. ► Manufacturing processes for both the tapered seating cavity and the plug are demonstrated.