Analysis of Hole Taper, Recast Layer and Heat Affected zone in pulsed O<inf>2</inf> and N<inf>2</inf> laser drilling of Difficult-to-cut alloy Nimonic C-263

The quality and performance of the drilled component is of prime importance in the development of aero-engine components and are directly related to the quality of HAZ, Recast Layer and Hole taper. In order to maintain and/or improve the reliability of aerospace components, it is first essential to be aware of the possible damages that can be imparted to a material when it is drilled. Therefore, an attempt has been taken to investigate the effect of laser drilling parameters such as Gas Type: O2, N2; Power: 3200Watts, 3900Watts and Pressure: 4 bars, 5 bars, while laser drilling the Nimonic C-263 super alloy. Laser drilling trails have been conducted with different combinations of drilling parameters. The quality of the drilled holes such as Hole Tapper, HAZ and Recast Layer were evaluated quantitatively and analyzed through scanning electron microscope (SEM).