Laser Welding

Automation

Laser welding is generally carried out under CNC control. The system must maintain beam-to-joint alignment and stand-off distance to within less than 1mm. The processing head for CO ₂ lasers is often mounted on a 3-axis gantry. Alternatively, the workpiece may be moved on a table or traverse.

The wavelength of Nd:YAG and fibre laser light allows it to pass along an optical fibre, increasing its flexibility and making it easy to use the processing head with a multi-axis robot.

Good component fit-up is essential for successful automation, requiring control over the accuracy and repeatability of the components to be welded. Seam tracking and adaptive control of the process can benefit when welding large or complex structures.

Benefits of Automated Processing

Automation yields fast, accurate and repeatable production. In many cases, CAD-drawings can be used, simplifying programming of the machine. Robot mounted processing heads make manufacture of 3-dimensional products relatively easy. The introduction of easy-to-use adaptive control systems will markedly increase the practical application of laser welding in industry.

Development of Automation

TWI is looking at many areas of laser automation such as:

• Integrated wire feed to increase tolerance to fit-up
• Adaptive control for poor fit-up
• Automatic seam tracking systems
• Distributed energy systems for beam focusing to increase the operating window tolerance

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