Thermal model with phase change for process parameter determination in laser surface processing

Despite the fast evolution of lasers in recent years, one of the main drawbacks for the implementation of surface laser treatment processes in industry is the previous experimentation necessary to get optimum process parameters. In order to reduce the necessary experimentation, the work presented focuses on the development of a numerical model for two different laser sources, including metallurgical transformations during the heating process. The model was experimentally validated for DIN 1.2379 tool steel, alloy typically used in die and mold making industry. Surface temperature obtained by pyrometry and the thermal field obtained from a metallographic study were compared with model data obtaining a good agreement.