Enhancement of laser cut edge quality of ultra-thin titanium grade 2 sheets by applying in-process approach using modulated Yb:YAG continuous wave fibre laser

Abstract Titanium is used in many areas due to its excellent mechanical, biological and corrosion-resistant properties. Implants often have thin and filigree structures, providing an ideal application for laser fine cutting. In literature, the main focus is primarily on investigating and optimizing the parameters for titanium sheet thicknesses greater than 1 mm. Hence, in this study, the basic manufacturing parameters of laser power, cutting speed and laser pulsing of a 200 W modulated fibre laser are investigated for 0.15 mm thick titanium grade 2 sheets. A reproducible, continuous cut could be achieved using 90 W laser-power and 2 \(\frac{\text{m}\text{m}}{\text{s}}\) cutting-speed. Pulse pause variations between 85–335 µs in 50 µs steps and fixed pulse duration of 50 µs show that a minimum kerf width of 23.4 µm, as well as a minimum cut edge roughness Rz of 3.59 µm, is achieved at the lowest pulse pause. An increase in roughness towards the laser exit side, independent of the laser pulse pause, was found and discussed. The results provide initial process parameters for cutting thin titanium sheets and thus provide the basis for further investigations, such as the influence of cutting gas pressure and composition on the cut edge.