Machining method and apparatus

Abstract

An apparatus and method for machining heat softenable materials such as metals, alloys and certain thermoplastic materials. In one form, radiation generated by a laser or electron gun is directed against a portion of a workpiece immediately adjacent that portion thereof which is being machined by a cutting tool such as a milling tool, lathe tool, drill, grinder or other means adapted to remove material by so called machining. The laser or other generating means for radiation is preferably supported by a mount supporting the cutting tool and is located to direct its beam immediately in advance of that portion of the work being machined so that the heat of the beam will soften that portion of the work about to be cut or otherwise machined. Other radiation generating means such as an electric arc or plasma arc generator may also be utilized.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.