Experimental Study on Surface Characteristics of Inconel 718 Sheets Cutting with Nitrogen - Assist Laser Beam

Abstract

Laser cutting of Inconel 718 sheets allows substantial cost savings as compared to traditional sawing, milling and drilling. The quality of the cut surface is more affected by a few operations, including cutting speed, cutting gas pressure, and laser output power. Additionally, the type of gas for cutting also plays a significant role in achieving a clean edge. In this work, Nitrogen gas is used in laser beam cutting. It not only helps to blow away molten metal but also ensures no reaction at the cut surface and no dross adhesion. Therefore, it is possible to obtain a clean edge, and it avoids subsequent cleanup process. This paper focuses on an experimental analysis of the Inconel 718 sheets' surface roughness which were cut by Nitrogen gas (N₂) assisted laser beam with 13 bar pressure and 2.4 to 4.5 kW range power laser cutting system. Characterization of Inconel 718 sheets before and after laser cut was studied by using SEM analysis with conjunction of Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX). The hardness of the material was also accomplished by using Rockwell Hardness Tester.