Optimizing parameters for fiber laser cutting stainless steel 201 to improve kerf width quality

This study investigates the laser cutting of stainless steel 201 using the Response Surface Methodology with a 32-run experimental design (L32). The responses are top and bottom kerf width, while laser power, cutting speed, frequency, focal position, and gas pressure are selected as input process parameters. A comprehensive statistical analysis, including analysis of variance, main effect plots, residual plots, and interaction plots, was conducted to assess the significance and contribution of each parameter. The ANOVA results for TKW and BKW confirmed the statistical significance of all machining variables. For BKW, laser power had the highest influence (72%), followed by focal position (17%), frequency (8%), gas pressure (2%), and cutting speed (1%). Similarly, for TKW, laser power contributed the most (61%), followed by focal position (19.8%), gas pressure (4.5%), cutting speed (3.8%), and frequency (2.7%). The findings highlight the dominant role of laser power and focal position in determining kerf quality. This study's main contribution is pinpointing the ideal laser cutting parameters for reducing kerf width, which improves precision and efficiency in stainless steel 201 cutting. The findings serve as a valuable reference point for enhancing laser-cutting processes in industrial applications.