Efficient emission extraction and component cleaning for large-area laser remote processing with high-performance lasers
Duration: 01.01.2017 - 30.06.2019
In classical laser processing there are several possibilities to treat a workpiece over a large area. The laser and/or the component can be moved. The necessary mechanical movement of the parts implies a limitation of the processing speed. Remote laser ablation is faster and more flexible with regard to the geometry of the workpiece, since the laser beam is deflected by tilting mirrors. However, this technology has the disadvantage of complicated emission control. Due to the stationary laser source and the variable working area, conventional extraction and cleaning devices can only be used to a limited extent.
The aim of the AIF project "CleanRemote" is to evaluate the emissions during laser processing and, based on this, to develop suitable filter and component cleaning systems to ensure a healthy and clean remote process.
In order to analyse the emissions generated during the remote process, a special closed working environment with connections for measuring instruments was designed. Thus, during the processing of metals and carbon fiber composites (CFRP), particle emissions (with aerosol spectrometer and SMPS) and gas emissions (FT-IR spectrometer) can be determined. Since large particles preferably fall on the component and smaller nanoparticles exhibit gas-like behaviour, two scenarios must be considered. Impurities on the component can lead to problematic processing. Therefore, in order to ensure the most effective particle extraction possible, a simulation model is constructed and tested for various pressure and flow configurations. Furthermore, different cleaning methods are tested. The size distribution of the nanoparticles remaining in the gas phase is determined for different processing parameters. A recommendation for respiratory protection is given.
The efficient remote processing also places special demands on the filter technology. Therefore, the effectiveness of different self-developed filter systems will be investigated in order to enable the removal of a wide range of toxic gases
Flexibility of a laser remote system for various applications: 1: cutting of metal foils, 2: welding of heat exchangers, 3: cutting of textiles
Experimental setup for the simulation of the exhaust process.
Contact:
Prof. Dr. Stefan Kaskel
Further information:
https://www.iws.fraunhofer.de/de/geschaeftsfelder/fuegen/kleben/projekte/clean-remote.html