METHOD AND LASER DEVICE FOR FORMING GROOVES IN BEARING SURFACES, AND BEARINGS INCLUDING SUCH GROOVES

摘要

A laser cutting device (100) is configured to etch an inner surface of a journal bearing (18). The laser cutting device (100) includes a laser (102); a beam directing tool (130) that receives a beam (108) emitted from the laser (102) and selectively changes the direction of travel of the beam (108); a fixture (170) that supports the journal bearing (18) in a desired position relative to the beam directing tool (130); an actuator (148) connected to one of the beam directing tool (130) and the fixture (170), the actuator (148) providing relative movement between the beam directing tool (130) and the fixture (170); and a controller (180) that controls the intensity and duration of the beam (108) emitted from the laser (102); and the actuator (148), whereby material can be removed from a surface of the journal bearing (18) to a precise width and depth, and in any pattern.