Citation Link: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40964-023-00555-z
Embedding optical fiber with laser metal deposition
Publication Type
Article
Subjects
Materials science
Optical fiber
Fiber
Plastic-clad silica fiber
Ceramic
Plastic optical fiber
Hard-clad silica optical fiber
Deposition (geology)
Optics
Embedding
Fiber laser
Metal
Composite material
Laser
Optical fiber cable
Welding
Optoelectronics
Fiber optic sensor
Computer science
Metallurgy
Geology
Date Issued
2024
Abstract
In contrast to other additive manufacturing technologies, laser metal deposition (LMD) allows printing on existing metal parts. For smart tools, it would be advantageous to place fiber optics closely beneath surfaces in order to measure parameters, such as temperature and strains. This work presents a novel method to weld in fiber optical cables beneath sheet metal surfaces with LMD. Results show that the fiber optical cable can be enclosed in the metal, confirming the possibility of using LMD to embed fiber optical sensors in the metals. An applicable scan speed for welding has been identified. A need for a metallic strip on the surface of fiber has been identified, which prevents the fiber from being melted. Ceramic sleeve and multiple plastic layers around the cable successfully prevent the fiber from being destroyed. Further research on effects on the optical characteristics of the fibers is proposed.
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