Laser and mechanical micro-drilling for aerospace applications

Traditional laser percussion drilling encounters challenges related to poor geometry and thermal defects. At the same time, mechanical micro-drilling while generating high-quality holes, faces issues such as premature drill breakage and difficulty drilling at acute angles. This review paper introduces a novel approach to micro-drilling Inconel 718 alloy sheets at acute angles by combining sequential laser and mechanical drilling. The study showcases the feasibility and fundamental characteristics of this innovative technique. Results indicate that the sequential laser-mechanical micro-drilling approach mitigates the drawbacks associated with laser-drilled holes, leading to reduced burr size, decreased machining time, and increased tool life when compared to conventional mechanical drilling methods. This advancement holds promise for enhancing precision and efficiency in aerospace applications, paving the way for improved manufacturing processes in the aerospace industry.