• Journal of Welding and Joining
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• 제28권5호
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• pp.80-85
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• 2010

This study focused on laser assisted machining (LAM) of silicon nitride ceramic that efficiently removes the material through machining of the softened zone by local heating. The effects of laser-assisted machining parameters were studied for cost reduction, and active application in processing of silicon nitride ceramics in this study. Laser assisted machining of silicon nitride allows effective cutting using CBN tool by local heating of the cutting part to the softening temperature of YSiAlON using by the laser beam. When silicon nitride is sufficiently preheated, the surface is oxidized and decomposed and then forms bloating, micro crack and silicate layer, thereby making the cutting process more advantageous. HIPSN and SSN specimens were used to study the machining characteristics. Higher laser power makes severer oxidation and decomposition of both materials. Therefore, HIPSN and SSN specimens were machined more effectively at higher power.

• Journal of Welding and Joining
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• 제28권6호
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• pp.35-39
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• 2010

Generally, ceramic material is very difficult to machine due to high strength and hardness. However, ceramic material can be machined at high temperature by plastic flow as metallic material due to the deterioration of the grain boundary glassy phase. Recently, a new method was developed to execute cutting process with CBN cutting tool by local heating of surface with laser. There are various parameters in LAM because it is a complex process with laser treatment and machining. During laser assisted machining, high power results in reducing of cutting force and increasing tool life, but excessive power brings oxidation of the surface. The effect of laser power, feed rate, cutting depth and etc. were investigated on the life of cutting tool. Chips were observed to find out suitable machining conditions. Chips of SSN had more flow-types than HIPSN. It means SSN is easier to machining. The life of cutting tool was increased with increasing laser power and decreasing feed rate and cutting depth.