Laser cutting of carbonaceous materials

Carbon fiber reinforced composite materials are extensively used in aerospace. Carbon fibers are abrasive and their insertion into a ductile matrix makes machining very complex. In this way, laser cutting has emerged as a viable alternative for processing composite material components. This research project aims at the development of CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced plastic) and CFRC (carbon fiber reinforced plastic) fiber laser cutting technologies, which were mapped for the development of new projects by the Brazilian Air Force. Material interaction procedures will cover laser cutting and drilling in these materials. The need for the study is based on the absence of national carbonaceous laser cutting service providers, the specific developments of materials used in the Brazilian Air Force and the need to provide future industrial partners with cut acceptance criteria (edge ​​quality and non-destructive testing) for future service demands. It is assumed that the research to be financed in the action will allow obtaining optimal conditions for laser processes, without damaging the volume of CFRP and CFRP parts. The team's prior knowledge supports the full development of the objectives proposed in this research. Regarding the methodological strategy, it starts from the preliminary analysis of the CFRP and CFRP, with each of the laser processes occurring in parallel with the support of the teachers and students to be engaged. The analyzes will be non-destructive and destructive: microscopy, X-ray diffraction, radiography, ultrasound and mechanical tests, aiming to obtain the following levels of quality, straight edges and without delamination, exemption from surface defects and mechanical behavior similar to the base material.