Modeling and Optimization of Laser Polishing Process

Laser polishing is a finishing process based on melting material, with the objective of improving surface topography. Some operating parameters must be taken into consideration, such as laser power, feed rate, offset, and overlapping. Moreover, because of its dependence on the primary process, the initial topography has also an impact on the final result. This study describes a quadratic model, conceived to optimize final topography according to the primary process and laser polishing. Based on an experimental matrix, the model takes into account both laser operating parameters and the initial topography, in order to predict polished surfaces and to determine optimal set of parameters. After the phase of experimentation and the creation of the quadratic model, an optimal final topography is introduced, taking into account the initial surface and the laser parameters.