Optimization of kerf quality characteristics during Nd: YAG laser cutting of nickel based superalloy sheet for straight and curved cut profiles

Kerf characteristics are important from the quality of cut point of view. The kerf characteristics are also changing with the profile of cutting. This paper presents parameter optimization of the kerf quality characteristics during pulsed Nd: YAG laser cutting of nickel based superalloy thin sheet. The kerf quality characteristics considered are kerf width, kerf taper and kerf deviation, and measured through Tool Makers Microscope. The essential process input parameters were identified as oxygen pressure, pulse width, pulse frequency and cutting speed. Based on the Taguchi quality design concept, an L27 orthogonal array has been used for conducting the experiments for both straight and curved cut profiles. The results indicated that the optimum input parameter levels suggested for curved cut profiles are entirely different from straight cut profiles except kerf width.