9400119 Settles The award is for research to improve understanding of the dynamics of the assist gas used with laser cutting to blow away molten material and plasma, with a view to improving performance. The technology of supersonic microjets will be transferred to the field of laser cutting to improve cutting speed and efficiency by maintaining supersonic flow along the entire cutting edge of the kerf. Melt removal is enhanced and material redeposition in the kerf is avoided. Significant improvements in conventional coaxial assist-gas delivery will also be sought by improving nozzle design. The work is primarily experimental and involves development of appropriate nozzles and microjets, and cutting trials using actual commercial laser equipment. The research is expected to impact the fundamental knowledge base related to gas dynamics as well as the efficiency of the key manufacturing technology of laser cutting. Improvements in assist gas dynamics are expected to translate directly into faster, cleaner laser cuts. More powerful lasers now becoming available would also benefit from the improved assist gas dynamics expected as a result of this research.
