Abstract

A phase-conjugated Nd:glass laser technology delivering 20 J/pulse at 1 GW and 5 Hz prf is reliably employed for laser peening. With irradiances up to 10 GW/cm2 the laser’s beam creates pressures that plastically yield metal surfaces leaving deep levels of compressive stress or desired plastic strain. The laser technology has solved the problem of a reliable high-power, high-rate laser for the peening process. The laser and technology has been proven in multiple industrial applications ranging from 787 Dreamliner engines to fuel efficient gas and steam electrical-generator turbines to forming curvature in thick sections of the large wing skins for the new Boeing 747-8.

© 2012 Optical Society of America