Diagnostics, modeling and simulation: Three keys towards mastering the cutting process with fiber, disk and diode lasers

Even established laser processing technologies such as cutting are far away from being completely understood. Nevertheless, the progress in industrially available laser cutting systems and applications is quite respectable. Fiber and disk laser cutting changed from a debatable newcomer to a serious part of the business while the diode laser appears at the horizon as the next player to be reckoned. Understanding of the process and its performance are continually improved. This paper highlights results of research and development from the recent years. Some speculations, simulations, diagnostics and facts about the process, its properties and capabilities are assessed. Earlier and latest diagnostics and CALCut simulation results of laser beam cutting processes are presented. (C) 2011 Published by Elsevier B.V. Selection and/or review under responsibility of Bayerisches Laserzentrum GmbH