Laser-assisted milling of advanced materials

Advanced high-strength materials offer a huge application potential within highly stressed components in various industrial areas. But their machinability is still limited when applying established and conventionally available technologies. Aiming at the reduction of process forces, increased material removal rates and longer tool service life without application of cooling lubricants the Fraunhofer IPT has developed a novel process concept for laserassisted milling with local laser-induced material plastification before cutting. The following paper comprises the novel process approach, fundamental process investigations, the design of a spindle-tool system with integrated beam guidance, laser control and first investigations with the new system.