Efficient and appropriate laser processing of high-performance material

Near net shape preforms, minimal material consumption and tailored processes are required to increase the acceptance of fiber reinforced polymers (FRP) in industry. For this purpose, the application of hybrid yarns facilitates short flow paths of the matrix systems and thus comparatively low impregnation and consolidation pressures. Furthermore, future applications combine the advantages of metal structures with FRP. This should be accompanied by appropriate, fast and flexible processes. The remote-laser-ablation expands the area of possible kinds of processing strategies, so that the laser has the potential to be a tool for the future. Development is therefore accompanied with the understanding of the interaction between tool and material. Laser cutting of FRP is an ambitious process because of the inhomogeneity of both the reinforcement material and the polymer matrix material. The processing of metal structures leads to increased demands of the laser-system-technology, due to the high reflectivity of the material. This paper shows an experimental set up for combining beam radiation with wavelengths of 1.07 mm and 10.6 mm. Furthermore, this paper will give an outlook on future applications regarding fiber-metal laminates.