Ultrashort Pulse Laser Micromachining Centre (USP-LMC): Scoping studies for new laser interaction regimes

Project Description

The UK National Strategy for Laser-based Manufacturing published by AILU and the CIM-LbPP makes it clear that there is a strong need for the development of laser devices and manufacturing related applications. These two activities cannot exist in isolation from each other; it is essential that each informs the other to maximise their ability to transform the up-take of laser technology in the UK and beyond. To this end, Rofin Sinar UK Ltd (RSUK) and the University of Hull are working together to instigate a laser-applications laboratory within the Department of Physics and Mathematics based around the new-to-market Rofin USP-100 laser. The link back to the CIM-LbPP via the collaborative development of this laser with Prof. Esser at Heriot-Watt University brings this activity full circle allowing critical interaction between the partners resulting in the best possible route to achieving our aim of developing applications in new irradiance regimes informed by a deep understanding of the physical processes (Figure 1). This level of knowledge will allow agile response to the changing needs of customers whilst also enabling novel process development and appropriate on-line control schemes.