Analysis of Ultrasonic-Aided Laser Drilling Using Finite Element Method

Abstract Previously, a novel Ultrasonic-Aided Laser (UAL) drilling technique has been developed to raise the performance of traditional laser drilling method, as well as to improve the overall quality of the “machined” hole. In this connection, a theoretical model using Finite element method (FEM) has now been developed to determine the shape of UAL drilled holes and the thickness of the re-cast layer. In addition, the temperature profile of the hole during UAL processing can be established and from which the size of the re-cast layer can be determined. Experimental results show good agreement with the theoretical predictions