ABSTRACT
One of the important applications of the laser in industry is the use of the laser in metalworking. Laser applications in metal processing include: Drilling, Cutting, Welding, Heat treatment, Inspection of metal surfaces, and Nondestructive testing. J. W. Lokerson indicated that the lack of lines of communication has interfered with the continued advances of the laser in metalworking. The solid-state laser systems may be used chiefly for drilling. Cutting may also be done with the laser and welding may also be done, even miniaturized welding. An excellent analytical approach to pulsed laser welding has been published by Fairbanks and Adams using the transient heat transfer equations for a semi-infinite slab to which heat is transmitted uniformly over a circular spot. U. Sjolin reported the use of a laser beam to inspect surfaces of rolled or sheet metal.
