Lasersænkning

Lasersænkning, or laser sinking, is a laser-based material-processing technique used to create depressions or grooves on a solid surface by localized heating, melting, and/or material removal with a focused laser beam. The resulting geometry is governed by the energy delivered, the dwell time, scan pattern, and the optical properties of the material.

Principle and process control: A laser concentrates energy onto a small spot. If the energy exceeds the material’s ablation threshold, material is removed; at lower levels, melting and resolidification can form shallow depressions. By rastering or spiraling the beam with controlled overlap, engineers can tailor depth, width, and shape of the feature. Wavelength, pulse duration, and beam quality influence absorption and heat-affected zone. Process parameters are adjusted to minimize undesired effects such as cracking, recast layers, or excessive thermal damage.

Materials and applications: Lasersænkning is used on metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites for decorative engravings, functional microgrooves, venting channels, heat-dissipation surfaces, bonding surfaces, and tactile textures. It supports rapid prototyping, microfabrication, and customized surface engineering.

Advantages and limitations: The technique is non-contact, highly repeatable, and capable of fine-feature creation without mechanical tooling. Limitations include the heat-affected zone, material-specific response, roughness of etched edges, and equipment costs. Surface finish often requires post-processing.

Safety and regulation: As with other laser processes, appropriate eye and skin protection, fume control, and machine safety interlocks are essential. Operators should follow manufacturer guidelines and applicable industry standards.

See also: laser ablation, laser engraving, laser micromachining.