Special features of laser processing of layered materials

This article deals with the problems concerning the quality of laser machining of workpieces of laminates of natural and artificial origin (mica, thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics, foil sheets, and composite materials). The basic disadvantages of the laser machining operations (contour cutting and drilling of holes) are the material’s delamination at the edges of the processed workpieces, its melting, and destruction. These disadvantages arise because the irradiation conditions and the machining modes are not optimal; the selected mechanism of the workpiece material’s damage in the applied technological patterns of operations is not suitable. Theoretical and experimental studies of the machining process of various laminates allowed us to formulate and realize high-quality machining principles. The modes and results of the precision machining of workpieces of mica, foiled fiberglass laminate, and hybrid composites are presented.