This engineering research equipment grant is to acquire an Nd: YAG pulsed laser with a pulse energy of 50J to perform research in the area of manufacturing processes. The projects for which the Nd:YAG laser equipment will be used include: (1) advanced laser drilling methods for the production of noncircular holes; (2) synthesis of metallic classes by laser glazing; (3) innovative laser welding of recently developed Al-Li alloys; (4) laser machining of super alloys; and (5) development of superhard coatings by laser vapor deposition. The objectives of research with Nd:YAG laser equipment are threefold: (1) to address the basis issues in near infrared laser beam-material interactions during processing; (2) to examine the mechanisms responsible for the process advantages and methods to minimize manufacturing defects; and (3) to assess the superiority of laser processing over other nontraditional machining methods.
