Laser material processing of polymers

Since the first laser was developed in 1960, laser technology has been growing and now covers a wide range of laser types and applications. One of the most important applications of lasers is the use of a high power laser beam for material processing. One very interesting material group in which lasers can be used for processing is polymers. In these materials the lasers can be used for drilling and cutting, as well for welding. Lasers can produce holes at very high speeds and in dimensions which in practice are unobtainble by other processing methods. Contour cutting with high speeds and narrow tolerances is also possible. This paper will briefly describe the laser processing mechanisms involved in laser drilling, cutting, welding and engraving, and will give some typical examples of laser processing with special attention to processing of polymers.