Laser welding is a welding method that uses the high energy density and directivity of a laser beam to melt and join materials. A laser generates a powerful laser beam, which is guided through a flexible optical fiber optic cable. When the beam hits the workpiece, it is focused through a special lens in the welding head and acts as a weld joint between the processed materials. A shielding gas is used to protect the material from oxidation. The liquid material forms a molten pool that creates a strong weld joint.

 

Handheld laser welding machines

 

Laser welding offers high efficiency and is particularly suitable for thin materials because the heat spread is limited. Handheld laser welding machines equipped with fourth-generation pulsed welding torches improve joint strength and weld quality, as well as increase weld formability. These machines can perform various welding methods, including spot welding, straight seam welding, lap welding and circumferential welding. They are also equipped with automatic wire feeders, which increases efficiency by more than 50% compared to traditional argon arc welding.

 

Advantages of handheld laser welding machines

 

The advantages of handheld laser welding machines include their ease of use, flexibility and the ability to weld in various shapes and angles. They offer high welding speeds and produce beautiful welds with minimal deformation, reducing the cost of subsequent grinding and shaping.

 

Laser welding is used not only for small and lightweight workpieces, but also for large and bulky objects that were previously difficult to weld. This includes stainless steel silos, spiral air ducts, chimney pipes and much more. Laser welding represents the welding method of the future and is likely to replace traditional welding in many applications, especially where high quality and efficiency are crucial.

 

Laser welding versus traditional welds – What’s the difference?

 

Laser welding and traditional welding are two different methods of joining materials, and they have their own advantages and disadvantages. Here is a comparison between the two:

 

Welding quality

 

– Laser welding: Laser welding produces high quality and cleanliness in the weld joints. The focused laser beam provides precision control over the weld, resulting in minimal deformation and post-processing.

 

– Traditional welding: The weld quality in traditional welding can vary depending on the skill of the operator and the welding equipment. It often requires post-processing to achieve the desired quality.

 

Welding materials

 

– Laser welding: Laser welding can be used to weld a variety of materials, including metals, plastics, and ceramics.

 

– Traditional welding: Traditional welding is commonly used to weld metals, but different welding methods are required for different metals.

 

Welding position

 

– Laser welding: Laser welding can be performed in a variety of positions and angles, including overhead and vertical.

 

– Traditional welding: Welding in certain positions can be challenging and require specialized equipment.

 

Welding speed

 

– Laser welding: Laser welding is faster than many traditional welding methods due to the high energy density and precision of the laser beam.

 

– Traditional welding: Welding speed in traditional welding can be slower and varies depending on the welding method.

 

Automation

 

– Laser welding: Laser welding machines can be easily automated and integrated into production lines for continuous welding.

 

– Traditional welding: Automation of traditional welding requires more advanced equipment and can be more expensive.

 

Post-processing

 

– Laser welding: Laser welding usually requires minimal post-processing due to the high weld quality.

 

– Traditional welding: Traditional welding may require post-processing to remove irregularities and deformities.

 

Welder skill