The utilisation of laser welding in manufacturing industries has increased rapidly during the last few decades and can be regarded as a more or less mature technique. During welding, the very high power density in the focal point evaporates thematerial and causes a narrow, deep entry hole which moves through the workpiece as the beam is moved. This is known as "key-hole" deep penetration welding Fig. 1. During welding, an inert gas (normally helium or nitrogen) flows through a nozzle to theworkpiece surface in order to prevent oxidation.
展开▼
