Study on Cutting Characteristics of Sintered Material with Yb: Fiber Laser

金沢大学理工研究域 機械工学系
In this research, Milling combined Laser Sintering System (MLSS) is used to make a sintered material. MLSS is a rapid tooling system using a fine metallic powder integrated with machining process whereby it can do laser sintering of fine metallic powder and also high-speed milling. This paper deals with the investigation of sintered material machinability by measuring its specific cutting energy and tool flank temperature. Carbon steel (JIS S55C) is selected as a standard steel. The effects of cutting conditions, laser consolidation energy density, powder consolidation mechanisms and unsintered powder on its machinability are measured. It is demonstrated that tool flank temperatures for all sintered materials are higher than JIS S55C. Low energy density for consolidation of metal powder increases the machinability of sintered materials. Cutting at the partially molten powder decreases the machinability of sintered material. Cutting with the existence of unsintered metallic powder surrounding the sintered material diminishes its machinability.