ABSTRACT
This chapter describes a number of hybrid laser and nonlaser manufacturing processes and energy eld interactions in such processes. It is mainly based on the research work conducted by the author over the last 15 years in developing enhanced laser-assisted manufacturing technologies by combining laser energy and another form of energy/medium such as mechanical, chemical, and thermal systems. The processes described in this chapter will include abrasive laser machining (laser melting combined with grid blasting), laser-activated chemical machining, water-assisted laser machining, and laser-assisted ame spray coating. The purpose of introducing hybrid processes is to overcome some of the drawbacks of laser processing, such as heat-affected zone and recast generation, crack generation due to large thermal gradients, and uniformity of the surfaces.
