PROCESS FOR SHAPING METALS BY MEANS OF LASER FORGING Russian patent published in 2004 - IPC

FIELD: processes for laser working by means of pulse shock, namely methods and apparatuses for making contours and profiles in metallic sections, possibly in different branches of industry. SUBSTANCE: contours and profiles in metallic sections are formed due to generation of compression stresses induced by means of laser irradiation on surface of metallic article. Process of laser working may provide deep compression stresses suitable for shaping even thick components without undesirable tension stresses on metallic surface. Precision degree of stress induced by means of laser irradiation provides accurate predicting and further profiling of metallic parts. Light beam with energy 10 - 100 J/pulse is focused in such a way that to create on absorbing layer applied onto metallic surface density of energy flux in range 60 - 200 J/sq.cm. Water layer used for sealing flows over absorbing layer. Absorption of laser irradiation causes generation of plasma and therefore creates shock wave inducing inside metal deep residual compression stress. EFFECT: possibility for making large-curvature parts for thick-wall metallic sections. 26 cl, 9 dwg