Laser-assisted machining process simulation for precision mould/die manufacturing

Laser-assisted machining (LAM) is a kind of thermally assisted manufacturing process which preheats workpiece material with a highly-localized laser beam and then is followed by a conventional machining operation. It could greatly improve the machinability and gives better machining quality, especially suitable for hard-to-cut materials such as superalloys, tool steels. For manufacturing the high-precision moulds/dies that could fabricate micro and precision components, the thermal assistance at the local cutting zone, will help to lower the cutting force and consequently improve the internal surface quality of the machined moulds/dies. In this paper, a numerical study of the laser-assisted cutting of plastic mould steel NAK80 is reported. The simulation of LAM of NAK80 is realized by combining two procedures: simulation of moving laser heat source applied on the local surface of workpiece which causes the corresponding temperature field arise and material soften, and simulation of the subsequent cutting processes. This research will offer the die/mould manufacturers a more efficient planning tool for the fabrication of the micro, precision dies/moulds of high surface quality, and hence, for forming the high-quality micro components as well as for longer die/mould life.