Optimization of laser-remote-cutting of CFRP by means of variable exposure delay times – simulation and validation

The growing interest in carbon-fiber-reinforced-plastics (CFRP) leads to a rising demand for cost-efficient, alternative production methods, such as laser-remote-cutting. Since the cycle times, particularly in the automotive industry, represent a significant cost factor, this paper presents a method for reducing the heat-affected zone (HAZ) in the CFRP-laminate while maximizing the cutting speed. In pursuing this goal, in this paper, a comparison is made between a multi- and a single-mode laser system. In addition, simulation is used to investigate which mechanisms contribute to the formation of the HAZ and the effect of the delay times between the exposures on the HAZ. For the comparison of the beam sources, attempts are made with regard to the required cumulative energy per unit length to achieve a complete cut. The developed numerical simulation takes into account the thermal decomposition of the plastic matrix as well as the fibers, the heat conduction in the laminate, the flow of the gaseous decompos...