Laser welding is the use of a laser beam to fuse two workpieces together. It is renowned for providing a high welding speed, meaning that metres of material can be welded within a matter of minutes.
Depending on the desired effect, there are two methods of laser welding that can be used. The first method - conduction limited welding - uses a lower-powered laser to achieve a weld on the surface of the workpiece only. The second method is known as keyhole welding, which uses a high-powered laser to generate a deeper weld - or 'keyhole' within the workpiece.
Laser welding results in a narrow weld, due to the fact that the heat provided by the laser is concentrated into a precise area. This makes it an ideal process for projects where accuracy and speed are essential. However, it can prove to be more expensive than other welding process options, though this is sometimes offset by a reduced need for secondary operations.
Laser welding can be used to fuse a range of materials, including stainless steel, aluminium, copper, alloy steel, carbon steel and die steel. With some materials, a shielding gas may have to be used in order to prevent reaction.
Used to produce
Narrow, precision welds between workpieces.
Materials
Laser welding can be used to fuse a range of materials, including stainless steel, aluminium, copper, alloy steel, carbon steel and die steel. With some materials, a shielding gas may have to be used in order to prevent reaction.
Advantages
Extremely fast welding speed compared to other methods
Limited need for secondary operations.
Concentrated heat source results in narrow, precision weld bonds.
Depending on the method used, it can produce either surface welds or deeper welds.
Disadvantages
Can be more expensive than other welding methods.
