Effects of process parameters on laser weld quality
Prior to using a laser welding machine, it is important to verify a number of important parameters. Here are some important steps to ensure that the welding operations turn out to be a success. In a typical laser welding process, a number of welding process parameters affect the quality of the weld joint. Laser welding parameters include focal distance, pulse rate, shielding flow of gas, speed of welding, and laser power. The two major laser welding process parameters that affect the weld bead the most are speed of welding and laser power. The increase in welding speed however results in the decrease of the maximum shear load. Additionally, the increase in the speed of welding decreases the base metal area that is melted.
Energy adjustment
It is important that energy is adjusted appropriately for better adaptation of the power to the processes. This will also ultimately prevent wastage of energy.
Ensuring the accurate beam diameter
The diameter greatly affects the laser welding performance. It is therefore recommended to choose the laser beam with a diameter within a range of 0.2 to 2 mm.
Check the frequency of the pulse
Pulse frequencies that are higher than normal result in pulse energies that are very low, making the laser welding process less efficient.
Waveform of laser pulses
It is recommended to alter the waveform according to the material, say a metal that you intend to weld. In case an inadequate waveform is utilised, about 60 to 98 percent of the laser will be lost, leading to failure of the welding operations.
Tensile strength and hardness
Tensile and hardness tests can be carried out in order to reveal the mechanical features of the weld bead. Both the welding speed and laser power have an effect on the maximal shear load of the laser weld. The increase in laser power ultimately increases the shear load.
Penetration depth
The depth of penetration is affected by the pulse duration and the peak power. If the peak power is considerably small, the melt pool is also going to be smaller.
Conclusion
Process parameters like welding speed and laser power are being consistently studied in order to determine effects on formation of pore and maximal weld-bead lap shear load. With Dynotech’s laser beam welding instruments, we have been proven to provide our services to and cater to a number of industries, be it the med-tech, automotive or the consumer industry for the best possible outcomes through precise and accurate processing and results.
