Dec 7 2015
Researchers at UPM prove that the Laser Shock Processing for surface treatments of metallic materials improves their properties of wear resistance, corrosion and crack propagation. This technique was found to be particularly useful for extending their useful life of aluminum alloys, stainless steels, and titanium. Due to these changes in surface properties, this technique is especially suitable and competitive for future material processing of the aeronautics, nuclear, automotive and biomedical industry.
Experimental setup of the LSP process at the Laser Centre of UPM. / UPM.
The working principal of the LSP or laser-generated shock waves technique is the deformation and generation of shock waves in metallic materials for improving surface properties like resistance against crack growth, wear and stress corrosion cracking. Professor José Luis Ocaña led the research work that was conducted at the Laser Centre of UPM. He was able to improve the wear resistance and useful service life of different types of components by applying this surface treatment technique. Some of the components that were tested include turbines and components in artificial hips. The research team validated the effectiveness of the LSP method in increasing the life of these components. This research illustrates the usefulness of developing and using a computational model for optimizing the design processing in solving real issues.
Detail of the LSP treatment on a turbine at the Laser Centre of UPM.
Although the LSP technique is available in specific labs like the Laser Centre of UPM, its industrial implementation needs to be stepped up further and the required processing design skills need to be developed. Experiments are being conducted at the Laser Center for extending the industrial application of the LSP process by varying the irradiation conditions, process control, and monitoring systems. Apart from these experiments, the team is also working on the design and development of numerical models which will generate optimal values of various process parameters.
The Laser Center of UPM is credited with innovation and R&D in advanced laser-based materials processing and manufacturing in various industrial areas thanks to its expertise, sophisticated equipment, and national and international contacts. It is also a reference centre for technology and knowledge transfer to the industry.