What is Laser Ablation?

Laser Ablation is a flexible process for micro-fabrication where the base material is removed layer by layer using an intense laser beam. The scanning pattern of the laser machining process can be varied for each layer throughout the depth of the machining path allowing this 2.5D machining method to produce complex 3D shapes. This highly accurate, non-contact machining allows the manufacturing of both extremely small and fragile parts as well as the use of extremely hard materials like Diamond and carbide. Tolerances of 5μm and below are common for our laser applications.

Laser Ablation Key Capabilities

– High precision tolerances of 5 to 10μm
– Fine surface finishes down to 10-12Ra μin (micro inch)
– Fast machining speeds with consistent machining quality
– Machining is virtually burr-free
– Material removal rate is controlled at the nanometer scale
– No consumable tooling costs from electrodes, wire or cutters
– No solvent chemicals, oils or coolants used in the process
– Low overall process temperature results in extremely low to marginal effects on the microstructure of the material
– Extremely small beam diameter allows for increased flexibility in designs of microstructures and engineered surfaces

Common Laser Ablation Projects

– Interconnect
– Fiber Optic Components
– Medical Components
– Optical Lenses
– Aerospace Components
– Defense Contracts/Components
– Digital Manufacturing Projects

Industries

– Aerospace
– Defense
– Interconnect
– Medical & Pharmaceutical

Materials

– CBN Diamond
– PCD Diamond
– Aluminum
– Brass
– Copper
– Exotic Metals
– Graphite
– Molybdenum
– Performance Plastics
– Precision Tool Steels
– Stainless Steels
– Titanium
– Tungsten

Interested in learning more? Visit our Laser Ablation page to learn more, or contact us today.