Rapid laser surface enamelling by powder feeding technique

Enamelling processes normally require very long curing/setting time typically 30-60min. This paper reports a new rapid laser enamelling process by powder feeding technique with curing time less than 2s. A special application of the technique has been developed for tile grout sealing. The laser parameters and their effects on the enamelling process are presented. It has been found that a good smooth enamel surface free of porosities can be produced by powder feeding technique. The increase in scan speed reduces the width of the seal, while an increase in laser power increases the width of the seal. The interface characteristics between the enamel and the substrate are investigated. © 2002 Published by Elsevier Science B.V.