Abstract
The capabilities of a high average power picosecond laser are assessed for micromachining yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal (Y-TZP) in its hard state. Laser machining of this material presents an attractive alternative to conventional machining techniques when precision customized parts are required due to the difficulty in machining Y-TZP in its hard state. Compared with previous nanosecond work the picosecond laser enables similar micromachining to be carried out at the same rate but with a superior surface finish and with no evidence of surface cracking. Strength measurements have been carried out using a four-point bend test rig and confirm that the improvement in surface quality translates to higher strength in machined components. © 2009 The American Ceramic Society.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 163-171 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | International Journal of Applied Ceramic Technology |
Volume | 8 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Jan 2011 |