Better Laser Surface Heat Treatment for manufacturing

Laser surface heat treatment is widely used in manufacturing for tasks such as surface hardening, melting, alloying, cladding, conductive welding and the curing of conductive inks and pastes used in thin film technology.

This project set out to deliver new laser beam modes that would make these processes faster and more accurate, to the benefit of manufacturers. This involved building a test device, based on concepts developed by University of Liverpool PhD student Dan Wellburn in his thesis.

How far has the project progressed?

The project was completed during 2011 with the successful construction of a working prototype machine. Our initial trials suggest that by using the new beam modes manufacturers could achieve time savings of up to 30%, whilst improving the quality of their work.

As a result of the project we've been able to submit a patent application for the novel techniques employed, supported by the IP team here at the University of Liverpool.

Are there particular sectors that will benefit?

Any manufacturer using laser surface heat treatment stands to gain from the new technology. We believe automotive and aerospace companies especially will enjoy substantial benefits, along with any manufacturer producing dies or moulds, where precision is a crucial factor.

What are the next steps?

With the patent pending we're completing our market research and devising a marketing strategy based around licensing the technology to selected Laser head manufacturers.

At the same time we're continuing trials to prove the efficacy of the new beam modes to industry, before full commercial roll-out.