Sapphire tools for laser-assisted microforming

Jens P. Wulfsberg; Sven-Eric Hilpert; Andreas Ostendorf; Christian J. Kulik; Thorsten Temme; Katja Samm

doi:10.1117/12.541442

18 November 2003 Sapphire tools for laser-assisted microforming

Jens P. Wulfsberg, Sven-Eric Hilpert, Andreas Ostendorf, Christian J. Kulik, Thorsten Temme, Katja Samm

Proceedings Volume 5063, Fourth International Symposium on Laser Precision Microfabrication; (2003) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.541442
Event: Fourth International Symposium on Laser Precision Microfabrication, 2003, Munich, Germany

Abstract

From the general trend towards higher functional integration and miniaturization results an increasing demand for metallic parts of smallest dimensions. Metal forming processes are best suited for these applications in terms of productivity and accuracy. But problems arise from the so called "size effects" related to these small dimensions, e.g. the influence of the microstructure becomes an important aspect to consider. An approach to these problems is the laser-assistance of the microforming process. Laser light is used to increase the temperature of the material during forming, reducing the flow stress and increasing the ductility. By controlling the temperature in the workpiece via laser radiation the microstructure can be modified by inducing recrystallization and thus increasing the formability in the required area of the part. This can also be verified by FEM simulations of the forming process. To enable the transmittance of laser light into the workpiece, sapphire tools are used. The machining of these tools has been carried out by laser ablation with wavelengths in the UV range, e.g. with excimer lasers. Experimental investigations have shown that the manufacturing of sapphire tools and their use in laser-assisted microforming processes is a suitable method for the mass production of microparts.

Citation Download Citation

Jens P. Wulfsberg, Sven-Eric Hilpert, Andreas Ostendorf, Christian J. Kulik, Thorsten Temme, and Katja Samm "Sapphire tools for laser-assisted microforming", Proc. SPIE 5063, Fourth International Symposium on Laser Precision Microfabrication, (18 November 2003); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.541442

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