laserpolishing

Laser polishing is a surface finishing process that uses a laser beam to melt and smooth a material's surface. The high-intensity laser energy is focused on the microscopic peaks of the surface irregularities, causing them to melt. Due to surface tension, the molten material then flows into the valleys, creating a smoother finish. This process can be applied to various materials, including metals and some plastics.

The key principle behind laser polishing is rapid melting and resolidification. The laser beam is scanned across the surface, and the precise control of laser power, scan speed, and beam spot size are crucial for achieving the desired smoothness without causing excessive material removal or thermal damage. It is often used to achieve a highly reflective surface or to improve the tribological properties of a component by reducing friction and wear.

Compared to traditional polishing methods like grinding or buffing, laser polishing offers several advantages. It is a non-contact process, meaning there is no tool wear or contamination of the workpiece. It can also achieve very fine surface finishes, often in the nanometer range, and is particularly effective for complex geometries or hard-to-reach areas where mechanical polishing is difficult. The process is also highly repeatable and can be automated for mass production. However, it requires specialized equipment and expertise.