Influence of Fiber and CO₂ Laser Cutting Parameters on the Material Properties of Wear-Resistant Hardox 450 Steel

Abstract:

This study investigates the influence of fiber and CO₂ laser cutting parameters on the material properties of wear-resistant Hardox 450 steel. The research focuses on the: effect of laser power, assist gas pressure, and cutting speed on the microhardness and surface integrity of the cut material. A full factorial experimental design was employed, consisting of 162 specimens cut under different process conditions. Hardness was evaluated using the Rockwell method, while surface roughness was measured with a Mitutoyo SJ-210 profilometr. The results revealed that gas pressure and laser power have a dominant effect on hardness variation in the heat-affected zone (HAZ), whereas cutting speed significantly affects the surface roughness.A comparative analysis between fiber and CO₂ laser technologies showed that fiber laser cutting produces a narrower HAZ and better preserves the base-material hardness, minimizing microstructural degradation. In contrast, CO₂ laser cutting results in a wider HAZ with slightly reduced hardness but improved smoothness due to longer thermal exposure. Statistical analysis (ANOVA) and regression modelling enabled the identification of key interactions between process parameters and material response. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of the laser–material interaction mechanisms in high-strength steels and provides recommendations for optimizing cutting conditions to maintain the mechanical integrity of wear-resistant materials.

• Periodical: Advances in Science and Technology (Volume 181)
• Pages: 137-147
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/p-vU71fg
• Online since: August 2026
• Authors: Iveta Čačková*, Viliam Čačko, Bálint Ferenczi
• Keywords: CO₂ Laser Cutting, Fiber Laser Cutting, Heat-Affected Zone (HAZ), Surface Hardness and Roughness, Wear-Resistant Hardox 450 Steel

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