Aim: To evaluate and optimize laser surface patterning on thin metal sheets to improve coating adhesion and reduce deformation during the thermal spraying process.

Brief description: In collaboration with GfE Fremat, this project utilized short-pulsed fiber lasers to create patterned surfaces on thin steel and molybdenum sheets. The study aimed to replicate or surpass the roughness levels achieved by mechanical blasting while minimizing sheet deformation. Tests involved adjusting laser power, pulse overlap, and patterning cycles. Coated samples were analyzed for adhesion quality through bending tests, demonstrating the feasibility of laser-patterned surfaces for thermal spray coatings.

Benefits:

• Improved Coating Adhesion: Laser surface patterning achieved comparable or better adhesion than traditional blasting methods.
• Reduced Deformation: Minimal distortion of thin sheets compared to mechanical methods, making it suitable for sensitive applications.
• Scalable Process: Demonstrated potential for up to 8x faster processing speeds using high-power laser systems.
• Environmental Advantage: Eliminates abrasive blasting, reducing waste and the environmental footprint.

Company/Venture Website:

• AMG TITANIUM GfE Gesellschaft für Elektrometallurgie mbH