Method and apparatus for treating electrically non-conductive workpieces

摘要

Non-conductive workpieces present a problem where laser treatment of a workpiece is to be augmented by the application of an arc, since the arc cannot be struck to the workpiece. In the present invention a laser beam is augmented by an arc struck between two electrodes typically on opposite sides of the workpiece. The arc usually either penetrates the workpiece, or two arcs are formed on respective sides of the workpiece.