Publisher's Synopsis
This work examines current developments in laser machining for researchers, academicians and, particularly, manufacturing engineers considering the use of lasers to answer machining requirements in their factories and plants. The book provides information on the theory behind laser machining, as well as its requirements, uses and applications. It begins with an overview of conventional material removal processes and goes on to describe the physical mechanisms involved in lasers, the different types of lasers involved in laser machining, and laser machining systems like optics, positioning systems and manipulators. The theoretical treatment of the laser includes a section on the basics of heat transfer and fluid mechanics, and provides analyses of one-, two- and three-dimensional laser machining processes. The last section of the book offers a description of current laser machining applications in research and industry.
