Laser Joining

Welding and soldering metals

The laser beam provides a variety of ways to join metals: it can join workpieces at the surface or produce deep welds. It can be combined with conventional welding methods and, additionally, be used for soldering.

Materials with a high melting point as well as high heat conductivity can be welded using a laser. Due to the small molten material and the short, controllable melting period, some materials can be combined, which otherwise could not be welded. Filler materials can be used, if needed. Even when seam welding with continuous laser beams, the heat-affected zones and the complete heating of the component are still considerably less than with arc or plasma welding. The supply of energy can be well monitored, regulated and maintained or precisely controlled.

In soldering, the mating parts are joined by a filler material, or solder. The surface of the solder seam is smooth and clean, forming a nicely curved transition to the workpiece. Since solder seams do not require finishing, they are often used in the automotive industry for making body parts such as trunk lids or car roofs.

Compared to conventional welding processes that employ electric arcs, joining by means of a laser beam offers many benefits

Selective energy application within a small area

Narrow seams and smooth surfaces

High strength coupled with low weld volume

Easy combination with other production operations

Only one side of the joint needs to be accessible

High process speeds translate into short machining times

Laser welding is especially well suited to automation

Good process control to ensure quality.

The laser beam produces welds without actually touching the workpiece or applying force to it