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Development and optimization of Laser Shock Repeated Dense Peening (LSRDP) using most advanced laser architectures
Optics Express
|April 27, 2022
Summary
A new laser shock peening (LSP) configuration enhances metal reinforcement by enabling faster surface treatments without thermal coatings. This optimized process utilizes a high-repetition rate laser system for improved efficiency.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Surface Engineering
- Laser Processing
Background:
- Traditional laser shock peening (LSP) methods have limitations, including the need for costly thermal protective coatings or prolonged treatment times with small laser spot sizes.
- Existing configurations either require thermal barriers to prevent damage or demand high overlap ratios with small spot sizes, increasing processing duration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a novel, faster configuration for the laser shock peening (LSP) process.
- To enable efficient surface treatment of metals, specifically aluminum alloys, without the necessity of thermal protective coatings.
- To investigate the operational parameters and feasibility of a high-repetition rate laser system for LSP.
Main Methods:
- Development of a new DPSS Q-switched Nd:YAG laser system delivering 1 J energy, 7-21 ns pulse duration, at a 200 Hz repetition rate.
- Application of the new laser system for LSP treatment of aluminum alloys under water confinement.
- Monitoring of water confinement dynamics (ejection and renewal) and implementation of an air-blowing system to manage water-related issues.
- Study of laser/matter interaction concerning pulse duration, energy, and wavelength.
Main Results:
- Demonstration of a fully operational and faster LSP configuration applicable without thermal coatings.
- Successful LSP treatment of aluminum alloys achieved at a high-repetition rate, significantly reducing surface treatment time.
- Understanding of laser-matter interaction and effective management of water confinement challenges.
Conclusions:
- The newly developed high-repetition rate laser system and configuration offer a more efficient and cost-effective solution for laser shock peening.
- This advanced LSP method provides a viable alternative for enhancing metal properties without compromising treatment speed or requiring protective coatings.
- The study confirms the operational readiness of the new LSP configuration for industrial applications.
