In LAM, a laser beam is directed onto the workpiece to locally heat and soften the material before it is removed by the milling cutter. The laser can be controlled to deliver precise amounts of energy, ensuring that the material is heated just enough to reduce its hardness without causing thermal damage. This controlled heating allows for more efficient cutting, reduced tool wear, and improved surface quality. The integration of laser technology with milling enables the machining of hard-to-cut materials and the creation of complex nanostructures.
