Product Code: ICAL06_1603

Experimental Analysis of Laser Stripping Effects on Thin Composites
Authors:
Ted Reutzel, ARL, The Penn State University; State College PA USA
Kent Knock, Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation; Stratford CT USA
Mitch Wool, General Lasertronics Corporation; San Jose CA USA
Ken Meinert, ARL Penn State; State College PA USA
Presented at ICALEO 2006

Currently, orbital hand sanding is used to remove paint from composite rotor blades during refurbishment operations. This method is time consuming, expensive, generates significant hazardous waste, and often results in secondary damage to the blade. Safe, effective removal of paint can be achieved using laser processing techniques. This work presents the results of a test program to characterize the various affects the process has on fiberglass-epoxy composite, and to provide a direct comparison to hand sanding techniques where appropriate. Tests include thermal effects using embedded high bandwidth thermocouples, paint adhesion testing, tensile testing, and others.