Computerized optimization of the process parameters in laser-assisted milling

Machining advanced materials, e.g. titanium alloys, usually results in a short tool life. Laser-assisted milling represents an innovative method to enhance machinability with less tool wear and an increased material removal rate. The material is heated locally and thereby softened before machining. This paper describes a thermo-mechanical simulation of a laser-assisted milling process in order to achieve a controlled heat impact. For that purpose the influence of different material parameters on the temperature field was analyzed computationally. The penetration depth of the laser induced heat and the thermally induced internal loads were investigated considering the loss of material and thus of heat during the milling process. Finally, the laser and the milling parameters were adapted for a real laser-assisted process.