Water-based laser drilling of superalloys with axial flow
Abstract
This paper proposes a new processing method for superalloys, namely downward-flowing water-based laser drilling, and compares it with existing water-based laser drilling methods. Water-based laser drilling keeps the top surface above water and the bottom surface below it. Additionally, a downward-flowing water stream is applied near the bottom of the exit during the processing stage. Inspections were performed on the micro-holes to assess their diameter, sidewall profile, taper angle, morphology, roughness, and degree of oxidation. The research results show that water-based methods markedly decrease the heat affected zone (HAZ), taper angle, and oxygen content. Notably, the downward-flowing water-based method demonstrates outstanding performance in improving the sidewall morphology and profile of micro-holes.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Laser Material Processing Techniques
Engineering Technology and Methodologies
Laser-Ablation Synthesis of Nanoparticles
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Materials and Manufacturing Processes
- Publisher
- Informa UK Limited
- Volume
- 41
- Issue
- 3
- Pages
- 465–472
- Publication date
- 9 January 2026
- Language
- EN