Abstract
In this study, the machinability properties of laser treated S355JR samples were investigated. The ZrB2 nanoparticles were coated on the surface of S355JR carbon steel by 2 kW CO2 laser. Then the coated samples were cut using the methods of abrasive water jet, wire-cut electrical discharge machining, laser, and abrasive disc, respectively. The phase structures and morphologies of the coated and cut surfaces were determined by using X-Ray diffractometry, optical microscope and scanning electron microscopy. The hardness was specified by using the microhardness device. It was found that low heat input and minimal damage was observed with the abrasive disc cutting method. Cutting with wire-cut electrical discharge machining, the worn zone was in a very narrow range, but there was also some heat-affected zone. While no heat input was seen in the method of cutting with abrasive water jet, significant damages in the shear edges and peripheral zones were observed due to abrasive particles. Intensive thermal deformation was also observed in the method of laser cutting.