EXCIMER-LASER PROCESSING OF TI-6AL-4V

The effect of the excimer laser on the surface of Ti-6Al-4V is reported. Particular concentration is given to surface modification for potential materials processing applications. Results showed that: (i) there is an optimum energy for smoothing titanium; (ii) at this energy density increasing the number of pulses has some, but not a significant, effect on the smoothing process; and (iii) relatively smooth surfaces could be achieved at higher energy densities if the sample was processed in a helium atmosphere. Other typical surface modfications and features are also reported, including the effect of different gases on the process.