UROP Project

Extreme-High-Speed-Laser-Cladding of Polymers on Polymer and Metal Substrate

Extreme-High-Speed-Laser-Cladding (EHLA) is a variant of Laser-Metal-Deposition (LMD) which increases the achievable surface rates for cladding applications drastically. This is achieved by preheating the particles in the air before hitting the surface of the substrate. The energy input is partially transfered from the substrate to the cladding material which also leads to a smaller dillution zone and allows new material combination especially. First experiments have shown that the process can also be used to process polymer instead of metal particles to create polymer claddings on

Task

The Project will start with a comprehensive introduction into the process and system technology used state of the art and ongoing research as well. The first task will be a literature review to identify suitable materials for coating applications. Especially the interaction between laser and cladding material is of interest. Once possible materials have been identified experiments will be carried out to develop cladding processes for the chosen material on different substrates. The produced samples will be analyzed to characterize the cladding and bonding of cladding to substrate.

Requirements

BSc in mechanical engineering, physics or material science. Ability to work independently and willingness to do practical experimental work. Experience with CNC machines (G-Code programming) and sample preparation is helpful.