Analytical model for force prediction in laser-assisted milling of IN718

Laser-assisted machining (LAM) could help to significantly reduce the machining forces and improve machinability of hard to machine materials. The physical ground explanation for machinability improvement of the LAM stay largely unknown. In the current study, a 3D model is developed for the temperature field calculation induced by laser preheating. Taking preheating temperature field as initial input, an analytical milling force model is developed based on Oxley's contact mechanics. Model validations are conducted by comparing the milling forces between the model predictions and experimental measurements in the LAM of Inconel 718 (IN 718). A good agreement is found. Also, the LAM forces are compared with traditional milling. The reduced specific cutting energy and reduced milling forces in LAM show the improved machinability of IN 718. The proposed analytical model provides a new method for the LAM process optimization.