Abstract

The quality of the laser beam and the momentum transfer of cutting jets are performance-influencing factors essential for cutting-gap formation. To improve the momentum transfer, a new nozzle concept is developed and integrated in a cutting head. The development uses the assistance of the gas jet through a followed up water jet (figure 1). By this, the expansion of the gas jet within the cutting gap is limited and therefore the flow velocity increases along the cutting front. This optimised gas jet allows a higher impulse transfer to the gap material in deeper levels as conventional systems.

© 2000 IEEE