Precision surface machining using a combination of laser ablation and micro-EDM

The combination of laser ablation and micro-EDM is a recent development for the quick finishing of products with small details in hard materials, such as nozzles for diesel engines. EDM is used to remove larger volumes, while laser ablation is used for the fine details.

Laser ablation combined with micro-EDM is a hybrid surface modification technique and is suitable for the machining of hardened steel and carbide. The process has already been valorised in the lab environment.

This combination of ablation and spark erosion consists of a sequence of machining processes integrated on a single machining platform. EDM is typically used to remove bulk material (due to the higher removal rate compared to laser ablation) and to machine geometries with a large length to height ratio. Laser ablation in turn is used to create fine details, to make small superficial holes and for finishes. Mainly nanosecond and picosecond lasers are used for ablation.