Sometimes, less is more — as in this turbine, which is having segments cut out with a laser for better cooling.
As per General Electric’s description:
Putting holes in turbines that handle titanic pressure may sound crazy. But these holes are necessary for cooling. Above is an image of the powerful tool used for such a daunting task. The Laser MicroJet drills tiny holes in a turbine blade by firing a laser beam inside a hair-thin jet of water, which guides the laser to the blade’s surface.
The machine in question is a Swiss-made laser cutter, which uses a jet of water to direct the laser beam, preventing heat damage or contamination on the cut site. Most importantly, though, it makes for a beautiful picture.
Picture: General Electric