Laser cutting of basalt fibre reinforced polymers by QCW fiber laser: interaction mechanisms and effect of laser parameters

In the paper, laser cutting of basalt fibre reinforced polymer laminate using a 450 W QCW fiber laser, working in a pulsed regime is presented. Preliminary tests were performed on a basalt laminate, 1.3 mm in thickness, changing the pulse power (Pp) and pulse duration (D) to find the maximum cutting speed. Then a 33 experimental plan was carried out changing the pulse power, the pulse duration, and the cutting speed. The kerf width and the heat-affected zone were measured in the section and on the external surfaces. ANOVA analysis was adopted to assess the process parameters’ influence. The interaction mechanisms were found and discussed. From the results, the BFRP laminate appears easy to cut at maximum cutting speeds up to 3500 mm/min. However, thermal damages occur. Kerf geometry and HAZ are mainly affected by the cutting speed, while the Pp and D seem to have a minor role.