Abstract
The nozzle shape was investigated in order to develop a high performance nozzle for pulsed Nd:YAG laser cutting, and its effect on fine cutting of thin metal plate was also discussed. In the case of 0.5mm throat diameter Laval throat nozzle with an initial expansion zone, the pressure on workpiece increased, and the straightness of gas flow was improved compared to a traditional straight throat nozzle, and the observation using high-speed video camera could reveal the behavior of removing molten metal downward. The experimental results proved that Laval throat nozzle with an initial expansion zone made it possible to reduce the dross height and the kerf width.
