A Unified Energetic Interpretation of Melting Depth and Ablation Depth in Laser–Metal Interaction

Key Points

• The study aims to unify the energetic understanding of melting and ablation depths in laser-metal interactions.
• Analyzed energy balance between absorbed laser energy and material responses.
• Studied phase transitions and their effects on material removal thresholds.
• Developed a framework applicable to laser welding and micromachining processes.
• Clarified the link between melting and ablation thresholds.
• Identified practical implications for predicting material behavior during laser applications.