Investigation into Laser Cutting of Brush Bristles and Composite Plates

In the present study, laser cutting of brash bristles and composite plastic (Polypropylene) plate are investigated. Argon is used as assisting gas, which is directed coaxially with the laser beam onto the workpiece. A lump parameter analysis is carried out to describe the size of the kerf. Some striations are observed at the cut edges, which is due to the low melting temperature and low thermal conductivity of the material. Since the assisting gas purges away the molten material from the kerf, no globules are observed on the exit side of the cut edges. At low cutting speeds and high laser output power levels, bristles adhere together after completion of the cut as a result of the high degree of melting that occurs around the cut edge during the cutting.