Laser Forming of Plates Using Two Sequent Scans of Different Intervals

Abstract

Laser forming of metal plates offers the advantages of requiring no external forces, cost reduction, and increasing flexibility. It also enables forming of some materials and shapes that are impossible by using the traditional methods. This article presents a finite-element model (FEM) for two-scan laser forming with different intervals along the same path. On the basis of the proposed model, the FEM simulation of the temperature and displacement fields is studied. The simulated results show that the plastic deformation is larger if the interval between the first scan and the second scan is short, which aids the bending process because of the heat retained in the plate.