Development of Laser Beam Machining using Power Diode Laser for leather cutting application

Abstract

Leather is a robust, durable and stretchy material created by tanning animal rawhide and skins. It is used to make variety of articles including footwear, bags, fashion accessories, furniture etc. The conventional method of cutting leather is a tiresome process. Laser diode technology offers advantages in cutting intricate geometries, stable cutting quality and potential to make the most use of leather product effectively. In this study, the machinability of leather using diode based laser beam machining and surface quality of the leather product have also been examined. The goal is to acquire the thermal effect caused by the laser at the cut contour edges. Buffalo leather has been taken as specimens in the present study. While cutting leather, it has been. proposed that diode based Laser Beam Machining minimize carbonization layer more than traditional machining.