Modeling of the free-surface shape in laser cutting of metals. 2. Model of multiple reflection and absorption of radiation

A physical model of multiple reflection of focused laser radiation propagating in narrow channels and slots is proposed to be applied in laser treatment of metals. Based on the laws of geometric optics, an algorithm for calculating the shape of the surface formed by interaction of laser radiation and metal with the use of the trajectory technique is proposed. The method used allows one to describe energy transfer inward the channel in simulation of laser-treatment processes (drilling, cutting, and welding). It is shown that the efficiency of multiple reflection is most significant in cutting thick materials with a large ratio of the plate thickness to the Gaussian beam width.