Experimental Evaluation of Laser-Assisted Machining of Si3N4 Ceramics
Damian PRZESTACKI, Norbert RADEK, Krzysztof NAPLOCHA, Pandiarajan NARAYANASAMY
Abstract. Silicon nitride (Si₃N₄) ceramics represent a significant class of materials with numerous applications in engineering and biomedical fields. However, their exceptionally high hardness (approximately 2125 HV) and inherent brittleness pose significant challenges during machining. Laser-assisted machining (LAM) has recently emerged as a promising method for enhancing the machinability of hard and brittle materials. This hybrid process combines localized laser heating of the workpiece with conventional cutting, where the softened surface layer is removed by a cutting tool with a defined edge geometry. Compared to conventional machining, this technique substantially extends tool life and enhances process efficiency. The present study investigates the machinability of hard Si₃N₄ ceramics by evaluating the flank wear (VBc) of the cutting tool edge. Both conventional turning and laser-assisted turning were performed, with real-time temperature monitoring of the machined surface. A clear distinction in tool wear behavior and cutting performance was observed between the two processes, demonstrating the advantages of laser-assisted machining over traditional methods.
Keywords
Laser Beam Processing, Tool Wear, Si3N4 Ceramic
Published online 1/25/2026, 7 pages
Copyright © 2026 by the author(s)
Published under license by Materials Research Forum LLC., Millersville PA, USA
Citation: Damian PRZESTACKI, Norbert RADEK, Krzysztof NAPLOCHA, Pandiarajan NARAYANASAMY, Experimental Evaluation of Laser-Assisted Machining of Si3N4 Ceramics, Materials Research Proceedings, Vol. 62, pp 172-178, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21741/9781644904015-22
The article was published as article 22 of the book Terotechnology XIV
Content from this work may be used under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 license. Any further distribution of this work must maintain attribution to the author(s) and the title of the work, journal citation and DOI.
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