Influence of Grooved Plate Cross-Sectional Shape on Bending Phenomena in Laser-Quenching Forming Process

Abstract

This research proposes a method to achieve laser quenching and laser forming simultaneously. This technique uses a diode laser to produce thin steel sheet-assuming parts, such as springs and hinges. Energy and time are saved by combining the advantages of laser quenching, which has high input heat efficiency, and laser forming, which, unlike press molding, does not require metal molds. In this study, laser-quenching molding was performed for an entire thin steel plate, and the influence on warping was investigated. Furthermore, the proposed method was evaluated under repeated quenchings for different cross-sections of a workpiece. The results indicated that the technique prevented bending deformation during the next laser scan and reduced warping by increasing the second moment of area of the entire workpiece.