Picosecond Laser Drilling of Ceramic Matrix Composites

In collaboration with Dr. Y. Shin of Purdue University Nanohmics Inc. proposes to develop picosecond laser drilling technology for SiC continuous fiber ceramic matrix composites (CMC). The application of this new technology will significantly reduce the cost of machining CMC components for new applications in advanced engines such as the F135, an engine under development by Pratt & Whitney. The very recent advent of rugged and cost effective lasers operating in the picosecond regime supplies a means to drill holes and slots that are essentially free of burrs and with a very minimal amount of substrate damage. In this effort, achievable aspect ratio's will be increased, optimal machining parameters will be developed and a plan to integrate the technology into Pratt & Whitney operations will be devised. BENEFITS: The utility of a methodology to rapidly micro-drill a range of materials with the absence of substrate damage or recast/melt splash is large. A range of CMC applications as well as other material including turbine blades with micro-drilled cooling holes, ink jet cartridge nozzles, fuel injector nozzles and the ability to microstructure metal surfaces – such as the honed cylinder walls of engines to create lubricant retaining surfaces – are all examples. The extremely high pulse repetition frequency of these tools make them viable alternatives to nanosecond lasers.