Laser welding
Laser welding is an advanced welding technique that uses a laser beam to melt and join materials. The technology is known for its high precision, speed and ability to weld thin and hard-to-reach areas.

Technology and process
The laser beam:
A high power laser generates a concentrated beam of coherent light that is focused on the area to be welded. The laser's energy melts the material at the weld area, creating a weld as it cools and solidifies.
Beam type:
The most common laser types for welding include fiber lasers, CO2 lasers and Nd. The choice of laser depends on the material and the welding application.
Welding methods:
Keyhole welding:
An intense laser beam creates a "keyhole" in the material surrounded by molten metal. This enables deeper penetration and stronger welds.
Conductive welding:
Used for thin materials where the laser beam heats up the surface and melts the material through heat conduction.
Shielding gas:
Such as argon or helium, often used to protect the welding area from oxidation and contamination.
Automation:
Laser welding is often automated using robots and CNC machines, providing high repeatability and accuracy.
Advantages of laser welding
Precision:
Laser welding offers high precision and control, which is important for applications that require accurate and complex welds.
Speed:
The welding process is fast and efficient, reducing cycle time and increasing productivity.
Minimal heat impact:
The concentrated laser beam minimizes heat-affected zones, reducing the risk of distortion and heat-related damage to the material.
Flexibility:
Can weld various materials, including steel, aluminum, titanium and plastic. Laser welding can also be used to join different materials.
Automation:
Suitable for automated production lines and robotic systems, increasing the consistency and quality of welds.
Accessibility:
Enables welding of hard-to-reach areas and complicated geometries.
Areas of use
Automotive industry:
Welding of car bodies, gearboxes and other components where precision and strength are critical.
Electronics:
Welding of small and sensitive components in electronic devices.
Medicine:
Manufacturing of medical equipment and implants where sterility and precision are important.
Aerospace:
Welding of light and strong structures in aircraft and spacecraft.
Jewelry:
Fine welding of jewelry pieces to create complex and detailed designs.
Important factors to consider
Material selection:
Different materials react differently to laser welding. It is important to choose the right laser and settings for the specific material.
Surface treatment:
The surface of the material must be clean and free of impurities to achieve high-quality welds.
Cost:
The initial cost of laser welding equipment can be high, but the long-term benefits in terms of speed, precision and reduced need for post-processing can justify the investment.