Short Description

  • Photons are excited with current in resonator emit energy in the form of light
  • Monochromatic, coherent laser beam leaves resonator through semitransparent mirror
  • Wavelength dependent on laser medium
  • Focusing of the beam via optical lenses
  • Laser beam guidance via fixed/movable mirrors, lenses, optical elements, light guides
  • Welding feed by component movement or beam deflection (e.g. scanner)
  • Thermal energy through energy absorption in the component
  • Degree of absorption varies with wavelength

Advantages

  • Fast, precise beam deflection via mirror system
  • Insensitive beam guidance (magnetic field, atmosphere)
  • Welding depth dependent on laser power
  • low heat-affected zone (pulsed laser)
  • for almost all metals (incl. refractory), metal pairings, plastics
  • Low energy consumption, wear-free laser source
  • no shielding against X-rays required
  • no stress on sensitive components (e.g. electronics)
  • Spatial separation of laser source and welding chamber possible
  • Laser technology is future technology and research focus

Disadvantages

  • Laser protection required (less complex than lead shielding)
  • Weld depth limited by laser power
  • Vapor deposition protection of optical elements required