Investigations are reported in a number of key applications areas for nanosecond pulsed Diode-Pumped Solid-State Lasers. Lasers with a range of pulse durations, frequencies, and pulse energies are assessed for performance in such applications as fine hole drilling in steels, cooling vane drilling, and machining three dimensional shapes in metals and composites. The effects of varying laser parameters are reported with respect to the interrelated phenomena of plasma formation, dimensional accuracy, material removal, dross formation and processed material properties. Process enhancements are also considered.
It is found that lasers operating in this regime offer significant advantages in terms of process rates and achievable quality over competing industrial technologies.