Laser beam machining is a non-conventional mechanical process in which a laser beam is used for the machining of metallic and non-metallic materials. This process uses thermal energy to remove metal from metallic or nonmetallic surfaces.

In this process, a laser beam of high energy is made to strike on the workpiece, the thermal energy of the laser gets transferred to the surface of the workpiece. The heat so produced at the surface heats, melts and vaporizes the materials from the workpiece. Light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation is called LASER.

Advantages of Laser beam machining -

• The production rate is high.
• There is direct contact between the tool and the workpiece.
• Extremely small holes can be machined.
• It is capable of producing very accurately placed holes.
• The heat-affected zone is very small.
  
  

Disadvantages of Laser beam machining -

• It is limited to thin sheets.
• It requires a lot of energy for machining process.
• It is very costly.
• Not able to drill too deep holes.
• Its overall efficiency is extremely low i.e. about 10 to 14%.