Laser welding uses a laser beam to connect metals or thermoplastics to form a bond. Because laser welding produces such a focused heat source it can carry it out at high welding speeds of meters per minute in thin materials and tiny, deep welds between square-edged pieces in thicker materials.
It’s a highly efficient welding method that’s simple to integrate using automation using quality welding supplies. The automotive industry is the primary user of this welding technology.
Understanding the Concept
Laser beam welding works on the concept that electrons in an atom absorb energy and become excited. When it returns to its initial state after a while, it releases a light pulse.
The photoelectric effect of radiation increases the intensity of this radiated photon, resulting in a high-energy focused laser beam. Moreover, laser refers to the radiation of light or other electromagnetic effects.
Ways to Set Up a Laser Beam Welding Equipment
The welding equipment is set up in the desired place (between the two metal parts to be connected).
- The welding equipment is set up in the desired place (between the two metal parts to be connected).
- A high-voltage power supply powers the laser machine after it is set up. The power supply activates the machine’s flash bulbs, which emit photons. The intensity of the laser particle is received by the ruby crystal’s atoms, which causes electrons to be stimulated to higher energy levels.
- The electrons emit a light pulse when they return to lower energy. This photon excites the atom’s electrons once more, resulting in the production of two photons. This process continues, and a condensed laser light emerges.
- This high-concentrated laser beam is targeted to the required location for welding. The laser is focused through a lens to the region where welding is required. During the welding process, CAM is used to regulate the mobility of the beam and material table.
- When the laser beam hits the vacuum between the two metal parts joined, the filler metal melts, and the pieces fuse. This results in a robust weld after solidification.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
For laser beam welding, the cost of the equipment, welding supplies, and qualified operators are too expensive. Furthermore, magnesium, for example, tends to evaporate and leave severe surface gaps, and the weld depth is limited.
However, on the contrary, the pros outnumber the cons of this welding method. Starting with the fact that welding can be done on a wide range of materials, including some previously thought to be unweldable.
In addition to that, the welded material doesn’t need to be an electrical conductor. Electrode contamination and large voltage-current effects are not a concern because no electrode is used.
Furthermore, small, tightly spaced components can be welded with welds as tiny as a few micrometres in size. Hence, it can be focused to minuscule proportions and directed with extreme precision.
The Takeaway
Laser beam welding is a highly efficient method that’s simple to automate using robotics. The automotive industry is the primary user of this welding technology in the extensive and highly complicated assembly lines.
It’s evident why it is quickly becoming the most efficient welding method.
The points discussed above are just a guide to help you start your laser welding journey.
