Characterization of AISI 304 stainless steel based on laser cutting process optimization

Area of Science:

• Materials Science and Engineering
• Manufacturing Processes
• Laser Technology

Background:

• Fiber laser cutting is a key industrial process for metals.
• Optimizing parameters like speed and focus is crucial for precision.
• AISI 304 stainless steel is widely used but challenging to cut precisely.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of cutting speed and focus position on laser-cut AISI 304 stainless steel.
• To analyze the impact on surface roughness, kerf geometry, and microhardness.
• To provide data for optimizing fiber laser cutting parameters.

Main Methods:

• Experimental fiber laser cutting of 4 mm-thick AISI 304 stainless steel.
• Varying cutting speeds (1.5–3.5 m/min) and focus settings (30–50%).
• Analyzing surface roughness (Ra), kerf width, and microhardness (HV); SEM, EDS, and XRD were used for validation.

Main Results:

• Surface roughness (Ra) decreased with increased cutting speed and optimal focus (5.4 µm to 4.0 µm).
• Kerf width reduced with higher speeds and optimal focus (185 µm to 138 µm).
• Microhardness peaked at 270 HV with favorable thermal gradients at 2.0 m/min and 30% focus.

Conclusions:

• Cutting speed and focus position significantly influence surface quality and dimensional accuracy.
• Optimal parameter selection enhances precision and mechanical properties of laser-cut stainless steel.
• Findings support informed decisions for industrial fiber laser cutting applications.