A Diode-Laser-System for Laser-Assisted Bending of Brittle Materials

Abstract

We developed a small and compact system of diode lasers, which can be inserted into the lower tools of a bending press. The parts of the system allow easy plug and play operation and can be installed for any bending length. The diode laser, which is based on 200 W laser bars on microchannel cooler, allows the heating of sheet metals in the forming zone shortly before and during the bending process. There is no unnecessary heating of other parts of the bending equipment, no wear of the tool, and, if properly done, no damage of the surface of the metal. The power per bending length is 16 kW/m.

Laser‐assisted bending by magnetic force

“…Laser‐assisted bending has been successfully employed to bend brittle materials [14]. There are a variety of ways to carry out laser‐assisted bending.…”

Laser Heat Treatment Effects on Roller Hemming in Aluminum Alloys

“…Formability in this area is frequently not sufficient to achieve a sharp-edged hem without material failure. The introduction of a higher temperature enables the process limits to be extended [3,4]. As a result of recovery and recrystallization processes, the yield stresses are reduced and the fracture elongation is increased [5].…”