Laser ablation machining of metal/polymer composite materials

This paper reports on the laser machining of metallic materials by the ablation of a low temperature polymer binding material. Through initial compacting and infiltration of various blends of metal powders with a low temperature polymer binding material, it is possible to laser machine high surface quality three-dimensional parts. The machining mechanism has been found to be one of absorption of the laser beam by the metal powders and heat conduction transfer to the polymer causing instant vaporisation of the polymer which breaks the bonds between metal powders and, with the help of an inert gas jet, in turn ejects the metal powder.