A preliminary study on the effect of external magnetic fields on Laser-Induced Plasma Micromachining (LIPMM)

Laser Induced Plasma Micromachining (LIPMM) is a novel, tool-less micromachining process which offers machining characteristics superior to conventional laser ablation, such as multi-material capability, higher machined depth and better wall geometries. This study utilizes highly empirical methods for the purpose of a proof of concept and demonstrates the viability of using external magnetic fields in modifying the geometry and improving the aspect ratio of machined spots (up to 6) in LIPMM, which is accomplished by pulling the plasma spatially downward to machine spots with greater depth and consistent diameters, and to achieve horizontal squeezing of the plasma to create channels.