Evaluation the properties of the cutting edge in fusion and flame cutting by solid state lasers

The thesis compares oxidation and fusion laser cutting methods in the production of sheet components called Trager consoles. Individual methods of laser cutting are compared in terms of achieved quality and properties of cutting areas. Consequently, the effect of these properties on consecutive technological operations, which are mainly threading and pressing the nuts into components, are evaluated. In the experimental part of the thesis the roughness of cut surfaces was measured and the cuts were classified into quality classes according to the ČSN EN ISO 9013 standard. Metallographic samples were taken in order to measure hardness and determine its course in the direction from the cutting edge into the material. The metallographic samples were further used for capturing detailed images on the microscope and assessing the quality of nuts pressing. Afterwards, the cut moments affecting taps were measured in order to verify the impact of cutting edge properties on threading. These measurements provided sufficient data for comparing the influence of cutting edge properties in individual methods of laser cutting on consecutive operations. Finally, individual methods were compared in terms of production costs. According to all the data and the conclusions reached, fusion method was identified as the most suitable method of laser cutting for components manufacturing