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Despite certain areas of application (electrical mechanics, precision mechanics, micro-positioning and others), this method is ineffective [4-5]. When changing the shape of large-diameter profiles, this method is power and time consuming, thereby eliminating it from industrial applications. Thus, the concept of a hybrid method was created, i.e. laser forming with mechanical assistance. I n 2015, PŚk established co-operation with the Metal Forming Institute (INOP) in Poznań, PAN’s Institute of Fundamental Technological Research, and the Rzeszów University of Technology in terms of research in the aforementioned topic. The above consortium commenced the execution of the project titled “Laser forming of thinwalled profiles with mechanical assistance, financed by the National Centre for Research and Development as part of subsidy no. PBS3/A5/47/2015. The paper’s authors will present, among other things, the main concept of hybrid laser and mechanical forming, one of the concepts selected for the execution, design and construction of a station for bending thin-walled tubes and cone diffusers used in the construction of aircraft engines. The target materials of the research are Inconel 618 and Inconel 625 refractory nickel superalloys, as well as AISI 410 and AISI 325 heat-resistant Martensitic steels. These materials, due to their good mechanical properties when working at higher temperatures, are used for building turboprop engines. For economic reasons, the testing was conducted on X5CrNi18-10 acid-resistant austenitic steel. The hybrid method (assumptions, concept, design) presented in the paper was subjected to validation in laboratory conditions. The testing featured measurements of the forces required to obtain plastic deformations in the profile, bending angle, and determination of the process temperature. Furthermore, the paper will feature a presentation of future plans concerning the work executed as part of the said project. |
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Laser applications
Lasers
Patents
Diffusers
Laser development
