Laser Welding Applications Expand

摘要

Solid-state laser technology has matured, leading to development of new, cost-effective welding applications, such as hybrid welding. Lasers for welding have proven their worth in the last 35 years in select applications. Despite their high capital cost, the precise, intense heat source makes lasers the right choice where there are tight tolerances, close fit-ups, and thin materials. These are applications where lasers produce less distortion, with their smaller heat-affected zone (HAZ) around the weld. That lack of distortion is critical in applications from medical devices to sheetmetal lap joints on automobile body parts, according to Ed Hansen, global product manager for ESAB (Florence, SC), the international welding company.