Manufacturing Methods and Technology Application of High Energy Laser Welding Process

摘要

A 50 Kw CW CO2 laser was used to establish: Optimum welding parameters for common joint configurations for both steel and aluminum alloys; and economic factors which prevail in a production environment. Feed-rate, heat ranges, special tooling, and economic considerations were evolved for each metal. A significant breakthrough in the control of weld heat in the aluminum workpiece was evolved with the development of a reflecting shield which essentially increased the heat in the workpiece by a factor of two. Thus, greater depth and quality of the weld bead resulted. This work contributes to the establishment of essential data and information which are required in accomplishing optimum laser welds in steel and aluminum at a favorable cost.