@article{KeferLimbachPapeetal.2024, author = {Kefer, Stefan and Limbach, Tobias and Pape, Natalie and Klamt, Kathrin and Schmauss, Bernhard and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {Birefringence in Injection-Molded Cyclic Olefin Copolymer Substrates and Its Impact on Integrated Photonic Structures}, series = {Polymers}, volume = {16}, journal = {Polymers}, number = {2}, doi = {10.3390/polym16020168}, pages = {168 -- 168}, year = {2024}, abstract = {This contribution quantifies the birefringence within injection-molded cyclic olefin copolymer plates and discusses its impact on the mechanical properties of the plates. It also focuses on the impact of birefringence on integrated waveguides and Bragg gratings and provides fabrication guidelines for such structures. The anisotropy in all three dimensions of the workpiece is examined by means of polarimetry and a prism coupler. It is found that the birefringence is inhomogenously distributed within the workpieces, whereas the maximum birefringence not only varies locally, but also depends on the observation direction. Overall, a maximum birefringence of 10 × 10-4 is found at the plate's surface near the injection gate. The anisotropy then reduces exponentially towards the center of the workpiece and saturates at 1.8 × 10-4, in a depth of 0.4 mm. Thus, the birefringence strongly affects near-surface photonic structures. It is found that, depending on their orientation and the local birefringence of the substrate, waveguides and Bragg gratings fabricated with comparable parameters behave completely differently in terms of polarization-dependent optical attenuation, cross-sectional intensity distribution and Bragg reflection signal. For example, the support of the TM mode can vary between total loss and an optical attenuation of 0.9 dB × cm-1. In consequence, this study underlines the importance of quantifying the birefringent state of an injection-molded cyclic olefin copolymer workpiece if it is supposed to serve as a substrate for integrated photonic structures. The study furthermore demonstrates that birefringence effects can be omitted by burying the photonic structures deeper into the volume of the thermoplastic.}, subject = {Bragg-Reflektor}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{KeferPapeGriesetal.2023, author = {Kefer, Stefan and Pape, Natalie and Gries, Nikola and Roth, Gian-Luca and Schmauss, Bernhard and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {Towards Pressure Sensors Based on Polymer Planar Bragg Gratings}, series = {Organic Photonic Materials and Devices XXV}, booktitle = {Organic Photonic Materials and Devices XXV}, isbn = {9781510659414}, doi = {10.1117/12.2648723}, year = {2023}, abstract = {While Bragg grating-based optical devices have shown promising performances for pressure sensing applications, their sensitivity, especially in the low-pressure regime, is unsatisfying and needs to be optimized by elaborate designs, such as cantilevers or other extrinsic mechanical transducers. This contribution demonstrates and discusses a novel concept for optical pressure sensors based on polymer planar Bragg gratings. Waveguide and Bragg grating are fabricated underneath the surface of a temperature-stable and humidity-insensitive cyclic olefin copolymer substrate by means of a femtosecond laser. Based on the employed direct-writing procedure, in combination with adaptive, in-situ beam shaping with a spatial light modulator, writing depth, i.e., location of the photonic structures within the substrate, as well as Bragg grating periodicity and positioning can be deliberately chosen. Afterwards, the polymer substrate is post-processed with a high-precision micro mill, so a diaphragm comprising the integrated photonic structures is generated. The resulting diaphragm exhibits a thickness of 300 µm and a diameter of 10 mm. Finally, the optical sensor is packaged and sealed to form an air-filled gas pocket underneath the diaphragm. Deformations of the diaphragm by external pressure changes translate to strain variations along the waveguide axis and thus perturb the Bragg grating period. This leads to changes in the grating's wavelength of main reflection, which can be evaluated in order to quantify the relative external pressure. With this straightforward optical sensor concept, pressure sensitivities up to 39 pm kPa-1, within relative pressures ranges from 78 kPa to 372 kPa, are achieved.}, subject = {Bragg-Reflektor}, language = {en} } @article{VoigtBockHilpertetal.2022, author = {Voigt, Jorrit and Bock, Thomas and Hilpert, Uwe and Hellmann, Ralf and M{\"o}ckel, Michael}, title = {Increased relative density and characteristic melt pool Signals at the edge in PBF-LB/M}, series = {Additive Manufacturing}, volume = {2022}, journal = {Additive Manufacturing}, number = {57/102798}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1016/j.addma.2022.102798}, pages = {* -- *}, year = {2022}, abstract = {Limited process control can cause metallurgical defect formation and inhomogeneous relative density in laser powder bed fusion manufactured parts. This study shows that process monitoring, based on optical melt-pool signal analysis is capable of tracing relative density variations: Unsupervised machine learning, applied to cluster multiple-slice monitoring data, reveals characteristic patterns in this noisy time-series signal, which can be co-registered with geometrical positions in the build part. For cylindrical 15-5 PH stainless steel specimens, manufactured under constant process parameters and post-analyzed by µ-computer tomography, correlations between such patterns and an increased local relative density at the edge have been observed. Finite element method (FEM) modeling of thermal histories at exemplary positions close to the edge suggest pre-heating effects caused by neighboring laser scan trajectories as possible reasons for the increased melt pool intensity at the edge.}, subject = {Maschinelles Lernen}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{KeferSchmaussHellmann2021, author = {Kefer, Stefan and Schmauss, Bernhard and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {POLYMER PLANAR BRAGG GRATINGS BASED ON BULK CYCLIC OLEFIN COPOLYMERS: FABRICATION AND FUNCTIONALIZATION}, series = {Proceedings of Student Conference on Sensors, Systems and Measurement 2021}, booktitle = {Proceedings of Student Conference on Sensors, Systems and Measurement 2021}, isbn = {978-80-01-06822-9}, year = {2021}, subject = {Bragg-Reflektor}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{KeferPapeSchmaussetal.2023, author = {Kefer, Stefan and Pape, Natalie and Schmauss, Bernhard and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {Fabrication of Lattice-Like Waveguides in Planar Cyclic Olefin Copolymers}, series = {28th International Conference on Optical Fiber Sensors}, booktitle = {28th International Conference on Optical Fiber Sensors}, isbn = {978-1-957171-30-2}, doi = {10.1364/OFS.2023.Th6.69}, year = {2023}, abstract = {This work demonstrates the femtosecond laser-based fabrication of lattice-like waveguides in planar cyclic olefin copolymers. An overview of the fabrication process is provided and waveguiding in the C-band is proven via optical near-field analysis.}, subject = {Wellenleiter}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{KeferSchmaussHellmann2023, author = {Kefer, Stefan and Schmauss, Bernhard and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {Sapphire-Based Planar Bragg Grating Devices}, series = {28th International Conference on Optical Fiber Sensors}, booktitle = {28th International Conference on Optical Fiber Sensors}, isbn = {978-1-957171-30-2}, doi = {10.1364/OFS.2023.W2.4}, year = {2023}, abstract = {This study reports on the long-term stability and the high-temperature capability of sapphire-based photonic crystal waveguides with integrated Bragg gratings. Furthermore, their Bragg grating reflectivity as well as their temperature sensitivity is quantified.}, subject = {Bragg-Reflektor}, language = {en} } @article{YangBischoffMueckeetal.2024, author = {Yang, Yongting and Bischoff, Kay and M{\"u}cke, Dominik and Esen, Cemal and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {UV-ultrashort pulsed laser ablation of fused silica}, series = {Journal of Laser Applications}, volume = {36}, journal = {Journal of Laser Applications}, number = {1}, publisher = {Laser Institute of America}, issn = {1042-346X}, doi = {http://dx.doi.org/10.2351/7.0001197}, year = {2024}, abstract = {The authors report on ultraviolet ultrashort pulsed laser ablation of fused silica and compare the achievable micromachining results to those obtained by using the fundamental emission wavelength in infrared. Ablation in ultraviolet reveals a stable efficiency for increasing fluences, whereas using an infrared beam exhibits a decreasing trend of the ablation efficiency at higher and increasing fluences. In addition, a significant improvement in the surface quality is found by using an ultraviolet wavelength in a fluence range up to 20 J/cm2 compared to infrared, e.g., revealing an Ra of down to 0.45 μm on using the ultraviolet wavelength compared to Ra = 0.56 μm on using infrared at fluences up 15 J/cm2. Moreover, taking advantage of the high available pulse energy, the authors compare the achievable ablation efficiency and surface roughness using a conventionally focused ultraviolet beam and a defocused ultraviolet beam, finding that the defocused ultraviolet beam possesses a processing quality comparable to that of the focused beam. Finally, the authors exemplify the potential of ultraviolet ultrashort pulsed laser ablation by using a Tesla mixer for microfluidic integration of fused silica.}, subject = {Laserablation}, language = {en} } @article{LutzSchwarzMarxetal.2023, author = {Lutz, Christian and Schwarz, Simon and Marx, Jan and Esen, Cemal and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {Multi-Bessel Beams Generated by an Axicon and a Spatial Light Modulator for Drilling Applications}, series = {MDPI Photonics}, volume = {2023}, journal = {MDPI Photonics}, number = {10/413}, doi = {10.3390/photonics10040413}, pages = {1 -- 9}, year = {2023}, abstract = {We report on an optical setup to generate multi-Bessel beam profiles combining a refractive axicon and a spatial light modulator. Based on their particular beam profile, Bessel beams offer advantageous properties for micro drilling processes and internal volume processing, especially for transparent materials. In addition, the laser power of industrial, ultrashort pulsed lasers has increased significantly over the last few years, offering the possibility for highly efficient processes using multi-spot profiles. Our optical concept combines the dynamic possibilities of beam splitting using a spatial light modulator with the benefits of Bessel beams, which facilitates multi-Bessel beam processing. Beside the simulation and experimental evaluation of the generated multi-Bessel beams, we exemplify the applicability of the developed module for the perforation of thin metal foils by micro drilling.}, subject = {Bessel-B{\"u}ndel}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{MarxEsenLutzetal.2023, author = {Marx, Jan and Esen, Cemal and Lutz, Christian and Hellmann, Ralf and Ostendorf, Andreas}, title = {Holographic tuning of physical axicons}, volume = {2023}, number = {154}, publisher = {LiM 2023 Proceedings}, pages = {1 -- 9}, year = {2023}, abstract = {Axicon generated Bessel beams are a popular tool for high aspect ratio precision laser drilling. Spot diameter and working distance are given by the geometric parameters of the axicon and the wavelength used. Thus, it is difficult to manipulate the beam shape of a Bessel beam for a given setup. Spatial light modulators (SLMs) overcome limitations in flexibility. However, due to the limited phase shift of SLMs, only Bessel beams with flat cone angles and large focal length can be generated. In this contribution, an approach for generating Bessel beams with a shorter, but tunable focal length is presented. A physical axicon was combined with an SLM. A holographic image of a negative axicon is put on the SLM to generate a ring beam, which is focused by a subsequent physical axicon to get a small focal diameter. Thus, different sized high aspect ratio micro holes can be drilled without using any moving components.}, subject = {Bessel-B{\"u}ndel}, language = {en} } @article{KeferPapeBischoffetal.2024, author = {Kefer, Stefan and Pape, Natalie and Bischoff, Kay and Schmauss, Bernhard and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {Lattice-Like Waveguides With Integrated Bragg Gratings in Planar Cyclic Olefin Copolymers}, series = {Journal of Lightwave Technology}, volume = {42}, journal = {Journal of Lightwave Technology}, number = {18}, publisher = {Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)}, issn = {0733-8724}, doi = {10.1109/JLT.2023.3328323}, pages = {6302 -- 6311}, year = {2024}, abstract = {This contribution demonstrates femtosecond laser direct writing of lattice-like waveguides in planar cyclic olefin copolymer substrates. Based on numerical simulation and experimental near-field analysis, stable single-mode waveguiding around wavelengths of 1550 nm is demonstrated. The waveguiding mechanism is based on a hexagonal array of laser-induced, positive refractive index modification lines. Thus, the lateral extension of the guided mode can be adapted by varying the fabrication parameters and, in consequence, the resulting cross-sectional arrangement of the refractive index perturbations. With an optical attenuationof 2.2 dB·cm-1 around 1550 nm, the fabricated waveguides are well-suited for on-chip integrated photonic devices. Moreover, the waveguides can also be equipped with Bragg gratings to enable the application of the photonic platform as a sensing device. Dependingon their length, the Bragg grating structures exhibit reflectivities ofup to 99\% and spectral widths down to 0.3 nm. The flexibility of the fabrication process and the sensing capabilities of the lattice-like waveguides with integrated Bragg gratings are underlined by an exemplary application study demonstrating a relative pressure sensor. For that, a photonic platform is micromilled to generate a 300 µm thick diaphragm and a reference pressure chamber. The strain introduced to the diaphragm by external pressure changes can then be quantified by the integrated photonic structures.This way, absolute pressure sensitivities of up to 38 pm·kPa-1 can be achieved in a relative pressure range from -60 to 100 kPa. The newly-developed lattice-like waveguides with integrated Bragggratings are therefore well-suited for the realization of novel and adaptable photonic devices and sensors.}, subject = {Wellenleiter}, language = {en} } @article{MarxLutzHellmannetal.2022, author = {Marx, Jan and Lutz, Christian and Hellmann, Ralf and Esen, Cemal}, title = {Holographic multi-spot generation for ultra-short pulse Bessel beam processing of stainless steel}, series = {Procedia CIRP}, volume = {111}, journal = {Procedia CIRP}, publisher = {Elsevier BV}, issn = {2212-8271}, doi = {10.1016/j.procir.2022.08.003}, pages = {648 -- 652}, year = {2022}, subject = {Ultrakurzzeitlaser}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{LutzSchwarzMarxetal.2024, author = {Lutz, Christian and Schwarz, Simon and Marx, Jan and Esen, Cemal and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {Combination of an axicon and a spatial light modulator for the generation of multiBessel beams for microdrilling using ultrashort pulsed laser}, series = {Laser-based Micro- and Nanoprocessing XVIII}, booktitle = {Laser-based Micro- and Nanoprocessing XVIII}, editor = {Kling, Rainer and Pfleging, Wilhelm and Sugioka, Koji}, publisher = {SPIE}, doi = {10.1117/12.3000946}, year = {2024}, abstract = {Due to their special beam profile, Bessel beams offer advantageous properties for micro-drilling and internal volume processing, especially for transparent materials. In addition, the laser power of industrial ultrashort pulsed lasers hasnincreased significantly in recent years, offering the possibility of highly efficient processes using multi-spot profiles. We report on optical simulations and an experimental optical setup for generating multi-Bessel beams by combining a refractive axicon and a spatial light modulator. This setup offers a new possibility of multi-Bessel beam generation by functional division of the Bessel beam generation by the axicon and the possibility of separation flexible beam splitting by a spatial light modulator. The beam profiles generated with this setup are analyzed and compared in this study using optical simulations and experiments. In addition to the analysis of the Bessel beams in the machining plane, they are also analyzed in the propagation direction by means of intensity distributions measured by a camera in small-step z positions. Furthermore, the experimental applicability of the module-based beam shaping system is demonstrated by integrating into an existing laser system.}, subject = {Ultrakurzzeitlaser}, language = {en} } @article{SommerHornungEsenetal.2025, author = {Sommer, David and Hornung, Simon and Esen, Cemal and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {Design Guide for Hybrid-Additive Manufacturing of Inconel 718 Combining PBF-LB/M and In Situ High-Speed Milling}, series = {Journal of Manufacturing and Materials Processing}, volume = {9}, journal = {Journal of Manufacturing and Materials Processing}, number = {3}, publisher = {MDPI AG}, issn = {2504-4494}, doi = {http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/jmmp9030088}, year = {2025}, abstract = {As the correlation between design rules and process limitations is of the upmost importance for the full exploitation of any manufacturing technology, we report a design guide for hybrid-additive manufacturing of Inconel 718. Basic limitations need to be evaluated for this particular hybrid approach that combines laser powder bed fusion (PBF-LB/M) and in situ high-speed milling. Fundamental geometric limitations are examined with regard to the minimum feasible wall thickness, cylinders, overhanging structures, and chamfers. Furthermore, geometrical restrictions due to the integrated three-axis milling process with respect to inclinations, inner angles, notches, and boreholes are investigated. From these findings, we derive design guidelines for a reliable build process using this hybrid manufacturing. Additionally, a design guideline for the hybrid-additive manufacturing approach is presented, depicting a step-to-step guide for the adjustment of constructions. To demonstrate this, a powder nozzle for a direct energy deposition (DED-LB/M) process is redesigned following the previously defined guidelines. This redesign encompasses analysis of the existing component and identification of problematic areas such as flat angles, leading to a new construction that is suitable for a hybrid-additive manufacturing approach.}, subject = {Hochgeschwindigkeitsfr{\"a}sen}, language = {en} } @article{SommerTruetschEsenetal.2025, author = {Sommer, David and Truetsch, Ben and Esen, Cemal and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {Fractographic Analysis and Fatigue Behavior of Additively Manufactured Ni-Superalloy Components with Post Processing Heat Treatment and Hot Isostatic Pressing}, series = {Advanced Engineering Materials}, volume = {27}, journal = {Advanced Engineering Materials}, number = {12}, publisher = {Wiley}, issn = {1438-1656}, doi = {http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/adem.202500078}, year = {2025}, abstract = {A report is made on a study of mechanical properties and fractographic characteristics of laser powder bed fusion (PBF-LB/M)-built Inconel 718, performing heat treatments and hot-isostatic pressing. For this, tensile components are heat-treated by different processes, as namely stress relief (SR), SR and double aging (SR + DA), and hot-isostatic pressing are conducted. For the mechanical testing, the ultimate tensile strength (UTS) as well as the fatigue behavior are evaluated, examining differences in maximum load behavior, elongation, and the different regimes of fatigue. As changes in material structure can be observed, the sole SR leads to a diminished UTS, while the combination of SR + DA develops an UTS of Rm = 1277 MPa. Within the fatigue behavior, the HIP shows a very balanced material structure with an increased high cycle and very high cycle regime, as the texture gets homogenized during the heat treatment. The metallographic analysis can quantify the material changes, as the density and the hardness are improved by virtue of the heat treatments. Furthermore, the fractographic analysis shows the differences in fracture behavior, arising due to the microstructural changes, as crack initiation points, crack propagation, and forced fractures can be categorized by scanning electron microscopy.}, subject = {Rapid Prototyping, Fertigung}, language = {en} } @article{FlachsEmmerichRothetal.2019, author = {Flachs, Dennis and Emmerich, Florian and Roth, Gian-Luca and Hellmann, Ralf and Thielemann, Christiane}, title = {Laser-bonding of FEP/FEP interfaces for a flexiblemanufacturing process of ferroelectrets}, series = {Journal of Physics: Conference Series}, volume = {1407}, journal = {Journal of Physics: Conference Series}, number = {012107}, doi = {10.1088/1742-6596/1407/1/012107}, pages = {1 -- 5}, year = {2019}, abstract = {This paper presents an optimized laser-bonding process for piezoelectric energy-harvesters based on thin fluorinated-ethylene-propylene (FEP) foils, using an ultra-short-pulse(USP) laser. Due to the minimized thermal stress in the material during bonding, achieved bypulse durations of few picoseconds, we created seams down to 40μm width without generatingholes in the 12.5μm thick FEP-foils. Using a galvanometer scanning system allowed for fastbonding-speed up to several centimeters per second, making the process also suitable for largestructures and areas. The achieved bond strength of the seams under influence of shearingstress was examined using tensile testing, which showed a sufficient strength of about 25 \% of the maximum strength of an unbonded, single layer of FEP.}, subject = {Ultrakurzzeitlaser}, language = {en} } @article{HaefnerBischoffHelmetal.2023, author = {H{\"a}fner, Tom and Bischoff, Kay and Helm, Jonas and Kunz, Tim and Rung, Stefan and Esen, Cemal and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {Picosecond laser microvia drilling of ABF material using MHz burst mode}, series = {Materials Research Express}, volume = {10}, journal = {Materials Research Express}, number = {9}, pages = {096301 -- 096311}, year = {2023}, abstract = {We report on a comprehensive study of laser percussion microvia drilling of Ajinomoto build-up film (ABF) material using an ultrashort pulsed laser in MHz burst mode. After laser processing, microvia drilling quality is being evaluated by the fabricated diameter and taper using laser scanning microscopy and metallography. The influences of the incubation effect, heat accumulation and shielding effects as a result of pulse to pulse interactions are being discussed on the ablation threshold, penetration depth and laser microvia drilling quality. We find that an increasing heat accumulation in MHz burst mode processing is responsible for the void formation and delamination of the insulating ABF layer. Therefore, the parameter clearance is introduced to evaluate these effects on the microvia sidewalls. For a comparable clearance, applying 2 intra-burst pulses achieves an average reduced taper of down to 19.5\% compared to single pulse mode. At the same time, a reduced laser drilling time of 16.7\% per microvia highlights the enormous potential of the MHz burst mode for laser drilling of ABF material in printed circuit board fabrication.}, subject = {Ultrakurzzeitlaser}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{FranzMueckeKunzetal.2023, author = {Franz, Daniel and M{\"u}cke, Dominik and Kunz, Tim and Rung, Stefan and Esen, Cemal and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {UV picosecond laser drilling of ABF film material for printed circuit boards using laser burst mode and beam shaping}, series = {International Congress on Applications of Lasers \& Electro-Optics (ICALEO) 2023}, booktitle = {International Congress on Applications of Lasers \& Electro-Optics (ICALEO) 2023}, year = {2023}, abstract = {We report on an experimental study of laser microvia percussion drilling of Ajinomoto build-up film (ABF) material using an ultrashort pulsed laser in the ultraviolet region. In order to optimize the drilling quality in terms of the fabricated taper and microvia diameter, the MHz burst mode is used in combination with both a Gaussian and a top-hat laser intensity distribution. To evaluate the influence of the top-hat beam shape on defocusing, microvias were drilled at different z-positions in the range of 200 μm evenly distributed around the focal plane. The drilling quality was evaluated by laser scanning microscopy and metallography. When using a top-hat beam shape, a reduced taper of down to 26.8 \% on average is achieved compared to a Gaussian beam. For the application of 3 intra-burst pulses, we find an improvement of the taper by 11.6\% compared to the single pulse mode due to the increasing heat accumulation. Using a top-hat beam shape in combination with the MHz burst mode, an 18.2 \% reduction in laser drilling time for a microvia with a similar taper is remarkable, demonstrating the high potential for scaling throughput in electronics manufacturing.}, subject = {Pikosekundenbereich}, language = {en} } @article{FranzYangMicheletal.2023, author = {Franz, Daniel and Yang, Yongting and Michel, Luis and Esen, Cemal and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {Evaluation of an ultrashort pulsed laser robot system for flexible and large-area micromachining}, series = {Journal of Laser Applications}, volume = {35}, journal = {Journal of Laser Applications}, number = {4}, pages = {042057 -- 042065}, year = {2023}, abstract = {We report for the first time on the realization, characterization and application of an ultrashort pulsed laser robot system for flexible and large-area 2D and 3D laser micromachining with 6 articulated axes. To characterize the dynamic positioning of the laser beam during and after axes movement, CMOS image sensors were integrated into the beam path. A method introduced for the alignment of the optical axes allows a reduction of the deviations in laser beam positioning to less than 141.8 ± 92.9 μm within a 110° rotation range of axis 4. In addition, a high laser beam positioning repeatability of less than 102.2 μm is demonstrated over a total period of 14 h for a movement of axis 5 within a range of 0° to 90°. Initial laser cutting, laser structuring and laser marking applications on automotive dashboards and glass substrates are presented for flexible and large area 2D and 3D manufacturing. By applying a special laser cutting strategy for processing AF 32 eco thin glass, high cutting quality is achieved with a taper of up to 96.3\% without the generation of cracks, demonstrating the innovative potential of the high-precision laser robot system. Nonetheless, different identified inherent influences of each axis 1-5 during robot axis movement demand for an innovative beam stabilization concept to achieve high precision in laser beam positioning.}, subject = {Ultrakurzzeitlaser}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{FranzRothRungetal.2021, author = {Franz, Daniel and Roth, Gian-Luca and Rung, Stefan and Esen, Cemal and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {Superimposed beam deflection using acousto-optical deflectors in combination with a galvanometer scanner}, series = {Lasers in Manufacturing - LiM 2021}, booktitle = {Lasers in Manufacturing - LiM 2021}, year = {2021}, subject = {Galvanometer}, language = {en} } @article{FranzSchusterSchwarzetal.2025, author = {Franz, Daniel and Schuster, David and Schwarz, Simon and Rung, Stefan and Esen, Cemal and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {Fabrication and analysis of through-glass vias for glass-based electronic packaging using an ultrashort pulsed laser}, series = {Optics and Lasers in Engineering}, volume = {193}, journal = {Optics and Lasers in Engineering}, publisher = {Elsevier BV}, issn = {0143-8166}, doi = {10.1016/j.optlaseng.2025.109106}, year = {2025}, subject = {Ultrakurzzeitlaser}, language = {en} } @article{FranzYangEsenetal.2026, author = {Franz, Daniel and Yang, Yongting and Esen, Cemal and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {Flexible 2D Laser Cutting of Ultra-Thin Glass Using an Ultrashort Pulsed Laser Robotic System}, series = {Journal of Laser Micro/Nanoengineering}, volume = {21}, journal = {Journal of Laser Micro/Nanoengineering}, number = {1}, editor = {Esen, Cemal}, publisher = {Japan Laser Processing Society}, issn = {1880-0688}, doi = {10.2961/jlmn.2026.01.2004}, year = {2026}, subject = {Laserschneiden}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{FranzSchusterSchwarzetal.2025, author = {Franz, Daniel and Schuster, David and Schwarz, Simon and Rung, Stefan and Esen, Cemal and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {Ultrashort pulsed laser drilling of through-glass vias for glass core packaging}, series = {Proceedings of LAMP2025 - the 9th International Congress on Laser Advanced Materials Processing, Ise-City, Japan, June 2025}, booktitle = {Proceedings of LAMP2025 - the 9th International Congress on Laser Advanced Materials Processing, Ise-City, Japan, June 2025}, year = {2025}, subject = {Ultrakurzzeitlaser}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{SommerTruetschEsenetal.2025, author = {Sommer, David and Truetsch, Ben and Esen, Cemal and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {Microstructural Fracture Behaviour of PBF-LB/M Inconel 718 Components within different HIP Processes}, series = {Lasers in Manufacturing, M{\"u}nchen, Juni 2025}, booktitle = {Lasers in Manufacturing, M{\"u}nchen, Juni 2025}, year = {2025}, abstract = {We report on a study of different hot isostatic pressing (HIP) cycles, improving the mechanical properties of additively manufactured Inconel 718 components. For this, PBF-LB/M built components are post-processed by different HIP sequences, as gas pressure and processing time are varied, leading to differences in microstructure and material characteristics. Static and dynamic mechanical testing are performed, evaluating the changes in mechanical properties with particular focus on the ultimate tensile strength and endurance limit. Furthermore, metallographic analysis is employed to investigate the achieved density and microhardness. Microstructural analysis, showing the grain boundaries, is used to identify generated phases and precipitations of the material matrix. Moreover, the fracture behaviour is classified by grain deformation during mechanical testing. As the HIP leads to microstructural changes of Inconel 718 components, mechanical properties can be improved significantly, enhancing the ultimate tensile strength and simultaneously the endurance limit.}, subject = {Isostatisches Heißpressen}, language = {de} } @inproceedings{SommerPetersEsenetal.2025, author = {Sommer, David and Peters, Maximilian and Esen, Cemal and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {Influence of in-situ high-speed milling within a hybrid additive manufacturing approach on the fatigue behaviour of Inconel 718 lattice structures}, series = {Lasers in Manufacturing, M{\"u}nchen, Juni 2025}, booktitle = {Lasers in Manufacturing, M{\"u}nchen, Juni 2025}, year = {2025}, abstract = {As lattice structures in various designs are used in additive manufacturing for lightweight components, the mechanical characterisation and fracture behaviour is of upmost importance for their industrial application. In this study, the fatigue behaviour of Inconel 718 lattice structures is evaluated, comparing sole PBF-LB/M to a hybrid additive manufacturing process combining PBF-LB/M with in-situ high-speed milling. At first, the static and dynamic mechanical load behaviour of different packing densities is analysed, determining the compressive strength and the endurance limit. Secondly, hybrid additive manufactured components are compared to PBF-LB/M built parts with respect to these mechanical properties, revealing improved compressive properties and modified regimes of fatigue. In addition, differences in fracture behaviour are qualified by fractographic and surface analysis. Overall, it can be summarized that the mechanical load characteristics, especially the fatigue behaviour, are improved for hybrid additively manufactured components with a superior surface quality of Ra < 1 µm.}, subject = {Hochgeschwindigkeitsfr{\"a}sen}, language = {de} } @inproceedings{BischoffKeferEsenetal.2024, author = {Bischoff, Kay and Kefer, Stefan and Esen, Cemal and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {Towards entirely ultrashort pulsed laser based process chain to manufacture polymer lab-on-chip systems with electrical, photonic, and microfluidic functionalities}, series = {The 5th Smart Laser Processing Conference (SLPC)}, booktitle = {The 5th Smart Laser Processing Conference (SLPC)}, year = {2024}, subject = {Ultrakurzzeitlaser}, language = {de} } @article{SommerHornungEsenetal.2025, author = {Sommer, David and Hornung, Simon and Esen, Cemal and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {In situ high-speed milling and thermal post-processing for the optimization of fatigue behaviour of additive-manufactured IN718 components}, series = {Journal of Materials Research}, volume = {40}, journal = {Journal of Materials Research}, number = {16}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, issn = {0884-2914}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1557/s43578-025-01656-x}, pages = {2388 -- 2401}, year = {2025}, abstract = {We report on the optimization of tensile properties and fatigue behaviour of Laser Powder Bed Fusion (PBF-LB/M)-built IN718 components employing an innovative hybrid additive-subtractive technology and various heat treatments. The hybrid approach comprises PBF-LB/M with in situ high-speed milling. Double Ageing, solution and ageing treatment, as well as Hot Isostatic Pressing are used to improve ultimate tensile strength and endurance limit. As a result, the advantages of the hybrid-machined components are clearly demonstrated by their improved mechanical properties. These enhanced properties are associated to changes in microstructure, which are identified as precipitations of IN718. Furthermore, crack initiation and crack growth for high cycle numbers as well as sudden fractures are determined.}, subject = {Hochgeschwindigkeitsfr{\"a}sen}, language = {en} } @article{SommerTruetschEsenetal.2025, author = {Sommer, David and Truetsch, Ben and Esen, Cemal and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {Effect of Hot Isostatic Pressing and Sequenced Heat Treatment on the Mechanical Properties of Hybrid Additive Manufactured Inconel 718 Components}, series = {Journal of Manufacturing and Materials Processing}, volume = {9}, journal = {Journal of Manufacturing and Materials Processing}, number = {11}, publisher = {MDPI AG}, issn = {2504-4494}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.3390/jmmp9110378}, year = {2025}, abstract = {We report on the effect of hot isostatic pressing combined with solution and ageing treatment in different sequences on the mechanical properties of Inconel 718 specimens, which in turn have been fabricated by a hybrid additive manufacturing approach. The latter combines conventional laser powder bed fusion and in-situ high speed milling, yielding superior surface quality as being quantified by Ra about 1 μm. In a comparative study between hybrid additively manufactured parts and those built without milling, we find that, in general, any combination of heat treatment leads to a higher ultimate tensile strength and an improved endurance limit, while, however, hot isostatic pressing affects these figures of merit most. In addition, metallographic analysis reveals increased density and hardness for hot isostatic pressed parts due to precipitation hardening. These improvements of the mechanical properties are found to be even more pronounced when the printed parts are manufactured by the hybrid additive approach, i.e., for parts with improved surface conditions.}, subject = {Isostatisches Heißpressen}, language = {en} } @article{SommerPetersEsenetal.2026, author = {Sommer, David and Peters, Maximilian and Esen, Cemal and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {Enhancing mechanical properties of double-periodic lattice structures using hybrid-additive manufacturing}, series = {The International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology}, volume = {142}, journal = {The International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology}, number = {7-8}, publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC}, issn = {0268-3768}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1007/s00170-025-17373-y}, pages = {4065 -- 4071}, year = {2026}, abstract = {We report on a study of the mechanical properties of hybrid-additive manufactured Inconel 718 double-periodic lattice structures. For this, a hybrid approach, combining Laser Powder Bed Fusion (PBF-LB/M) and in-situ high-speed milling, is employed. Within this technique, the PBF-LB/M process is interrupted after several layers, as the milling process starts, enabling a machining of inlaying structures.}, subject = {Hochgeschwindigkeitsfr{\"a}sen}, language = {en} } @article{SommerHornungEsenetal.2025, author = {Sommer, David and Hornung, Simon and Esen, Cemal and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {Design Guide for Hybrid-Additive Manufacturing of Inconel 718 Combining PBF-LB/M and In Situ High-Speed Milling}, series = {Journal of Manufacturing and Materials Processing}, volume = {9}, journal = {Journal of Manufacturing and Materials Processing}, number = {3}, publisher = {MDPI AG}, issn = {2504-4494}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.3390/jmmp9030088}, year = {2025}, abstract = {As the correlation between design rules and process limitations is of the upmost importance for the full exploitation of any manufacturing technology, we report a design guide for hybrid-additive manufacturing of Inconel 718. Basic limitations need to be evaluated for this particular hybrid approach that combines laser powder bed fusion (PBF-LB/M) and in situ high-speed milling. Fundamental geometric limitations are examined with regard to the minimum feasible wall thickness, cylinders, overhanging structures, and chamfers. Furthermore, geometrical restrictions due to the integrated three-axis milling process with respect to inclinations, inner angles, notches, and boreholes are investigated. From these findings, we derive design guidelines for a reliable build process using this hybrid manufacturing. Additionally, a design guideline for the hybrid-additive manufacturing approach is presented, depicting a step-to-step guide for the adjustment of constructions. To demonstrate this, a powder nozzle for a direct energy deposition (DED-LB/M) process is redesigned following the previously defined guidelines. This redesign encompasses analysis of the existing component and identification of problematic areas such as flat angles, leading to a new construction that is suitable for a hybrid-additive manufacturing approach.}, subject = {Hochgeschwindigkeitsfr{\"a}sen}, language = {en} } @article{SommerHellmann2025, author = {Sommer, David and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {On the Impact of Process Parameters and Ambient Temperature on Tensile Strength and Fatigue Behaviour of SLS-Built Polyamide-12}, series = {Key Engineering Materials}, volume = {1019}, journal = {Key Engineering Materials}, publisher = {Trans Tech Publications, Ltd.}, issn = {1662-9795}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.4028/p-F0XrgQ}, pages = {31 -- 36}, year = {2025}, abstract = {We report on a comprehensive study of tensile strength and fatigue behaviour depending on process parameters and ambient temperature. For this, Polyamide-12 components are fabricated using Selective Laser Sintering. Firstly, different process parameters like, e.g, scan-speed, laser power, and applied energy density are varied. Secondly, the ambient temperature during testing is varied, evaluating the impact of decreased, respectively increased test temperatures on the characteristics of the Polyamide-12 components. For all components, the static and dynamic mechanical load behaviour is investigated, quantifying the changes in the Ultimate Tensile Strength (UTS) and the endurance limit. As the applied energy density transpires as a decisive parameter, a variation leads to significant changes in UTS and endurance limit, whereas an adjustment of scan-speed and laser power at a constant energy density do not affect the mechanical properties. Finally, the ambient temperature during testing is evaluated, demonstrating different ambient application conditions. The impact of an active cooling of the component as well as increased temperatures on the mechanical behaviour is tested, providing fundamental findings on the operating life of Polyamide-12 components.}, subject = {Selektives Laserstrahlsintern}, language = {en} } @article{BischoffEsenHellmann2024, author = {Bischoff, Kay and Esen, Cemal and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {Femtosecond reductive Laser Sintering under multiple focus conditions for rapid production of conductive copper layers}, series = {Procedia CIRP}, volume = {124}, journal = {Procedia CIRP}, number = {124}, publisher = {Elsevier BV}, issn = {2212-8271}, doi = {10.1016/j.procir.2024.08.189}, pages = {629 -- 633}, year = {2024}, abstract = {Reductive laser sintering is an advantageous alternative to conventional precious metal- or mask-based processes for the electrification of polymers and has been demonstrated in a variety of sensor applications. Ultrashort pulsed lasers promise precise control of the energy applied during sintering and ablation. Besides fine tracks, microelectronic circuits include wide contact pads, which leads to time-consuming processing with small laser spot sizes. The use of larger focal diameters, which results in wider lines and thus a higher metallization rate, is accompanied by a loss of structure resolution. We show the influence of focusing on the femtosecond reductive laser sintering of copper(II) oxide on cyclic olefin copolymers. While small focus diameters down to 23 µm provide high accuracy, increasing the laser power and the focus diameter up to 400 µm significantly accelerates the process, first by enlarging the line width and second by increasing the scanning speed due to the exposure time. Two-dimensional copper electrodes for 23 µm and 200 µm focal diameters were generated by hatching individual lines and compared with respect to their morphology. The enlarged spot can be used for high-speed generation of electrodes with a surface conductivity of 117 mΩ/sq. Hybrid processes with production under combined focusing conditions are presented for the first time.}, subject = {Laserstrahlsintern}, language = {en} } @article{SommerTruetschEsenetal.2025, author = {Sommer, David and Truetsch, Ben and Esen, Cemal and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {Fractographic Analysis and Fatigue Behavior of Additively Manufactured Ni-Superalloy Components with Post Processing Heat Treatment and Hot Isostatic Pressing}, series = {Advanced Engineering Materials}, volume = {27}, journal = {Advanced Engineering Materials}, number = {12}, publisher = {Wiley}, issn = {1438-1656}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1002/adem.202500078}, year = {2025}, abstract = {A report is made on a study of mechanical properties and fractographic characteristics of laser powder bed fusion (PBF-LB/M)-built Inconel 718, performing heat treatments and hot-isostatic pressing. For this, tensile components are heat-treated by different processes, as namely stress relief (SR), SR and double aging (SR + DA), and hot-isostatic pressing are conducted. For the mechanical testing, the ultimate tensile strength (UTS) as well as the fatigue behavior are evaluated, examining differences in maximum load behavior, elongation, and the different regimes of fatigue. As changes in material structure can be observed, the sole SR leads to a diminished UTS, while the combination of SR + DA develops an UTS of R m  = 1277 MPa. Within the fatigue behavior, the HIP shows a very balanced material structure with an increased high cycle and very high cycle regime, as the texture gets homogenized during the heat treatment. The metallographic analysis can quantify the material changes, as the density and the hardness are improved by virtue of the heat treatments. Furthermore, the fractographic analysis shows the differences in fracture behavior, arising due to the microstructural changes, as crack initiation points, crack propagation, and forced fractures can be categorized by scanning electron microscopy.}, subject = {Nickellegierung}, language = {en} } @article{SommerHornungEsenetal.2025, author = {Sommer, David and Hornung, Simon and Esen, Cemal and Hellmann, Ralf}, title = {Evaluation of the Impact of Heat Treatment Processes and Surface Conditions on the Mechanical Properties of PBF-LB/M-Built Inconel 718 Components}, series = {Materials Science Forum}, volume = {1155}, journal = {Materials Science Forum}, publisher = {Trans Tech Publications, Ltd.}, issn = {1662-9752}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.4028/p-9gR9cI}, pages = {11 -- 17}, year = {2025}, abstract = {A study of the mechanical properties of hybrid additive manufactured IN718 components is presented, optimising mechanical properties due to an in-situ high-speed milling and different heat treatment processes. At first, the impact of different heat treatment processes is investigated, as the changes in microstructure during the process lead to different mechanical properties. Static and dynamic mechanical load behaviour is tested, quantifying microstructural changes by means of the Ultimate Tensile Strength (UTS) and the endurance limit. Furthermore, sole PBF-LB/M- and hybrid built components are compared, investigating the effect of a surface finish on the static and dynamic load behaviour, as superficial cracks and melting errors diminish the UTS and the endurance limit of PBF-LB/M-built components. Within these experiments, a change of fatigue behaviour for the heat-treatedstates can be observed, compared to the as-built state of the PBF-LB/M, as the development of different phases during heat treatment leads to an improvement of the endurance limit for, e.g., solution and ageing treated components. Additionally, the improvement of the surface quality to Ra = 2 µm leads to a significant increase of the dynamic mechanical load behaviour of hybrid-built components, as superficial cracks and surface defects are reduced.}, subject = {Hochgeschwindigkeitsfr{\"a}sen}, language = {en} }