The University of Manchester and Liverpool University will jointly host a “Technology Breakfast” on June 30th at the Daresbury Centre. The event will focus on drilling and coating, which are common industrial laser applications.
The ERDF and The NWDA have funded the programme. Presentations will commence at 8:30 am and end at 10:30 am. The delegates attending the event will also be updated about “Knowledge Exchange” through the Laser Engineering Programme, through which eligible companies based in the North-West will be guided to evaluate lasers.
Laser coating technology is applicable for product development and has commercial and environmental benefits. New products and structures can be coated directly with lasers. The method utilizes less energy consumption and at the same time the wastage incurred is low.
Laser Drilling is a convenient method to create holes. It is extremely fast and the end result can be achieved with no break out and little stress. Since it is a contactless process, the operating costs are low as there is no need to repair or replace drill bits. Even micro-holes can be drilled onto curved surfaces or in angles using this process. It can be used to drill into metals, plastics, wood, concrete and composites.
The University of Manchester’s Professor Lin Li from the Laser Processing Research Centre at the University of Manchester stated that in 2010, the laser installations worldwide grew by 27%. The professor also added that the goal of the programme is to provide a forum for North-West companies to learn about the laser-based technologies.
Source: http://www.manchester.ac.uk/