Automated Laser Welding

Laser welding is a popular method of joining metals together in the manufacturing industry. It involves using a high-energy laser beam to melt and fuse two pieces of metal together. This process is often used in the automotive, aerospace, and medical industries, where precision and accuracy are crucial.

One of the most common ways to perform laser welding is by using an industrial robot. Industrial robots, brands such as Fanuc and ABB, are known for their precision and accuracy, making them ideal for laser welding applications. The following is a technical article describing the process of laser welding using an industrial robot.

The first step in laser welding using an industrial robot is to prepare the parts that need to be welded. The parts must be clean and free of any contaminants that could interfere with the welding process. The robot is then programmed to move the parts into position for welding.

Once the parts are in position, the laser beam is directed at the joint between the two parts. The laser beam is focused on a small area, creating a high-intensity heat source that melts the metal at the joint. The robot moves the parts together, allowing the melted metal to flow and fuse the two parts together.

The laser beam is usually generated by a solid-state laser, which is a type of laser that uses optical fibers to amplify the laser beam. Solid-state lasers are highly efficient and can produce a high-quality laser beam that is ideal for welding applications.

One of the advantages of using a robot for laser welding is the robot’s ability to move quickly and accurately. The robot can move the parts into position and then move them away from the laser beam, allowing the parts to cool. This process can be repeated quickly, allowing for high production rates.

Another advantage of using a robot for laser welding is the robot’s ability to work in hazardous environments. The robot can be programmed to work in areas that are too dangerous for humans to work in, such as high-temperature environments or areas with toxic fumes.

In conclusion, laser welding using an industrial robot is a highly precise and efficient process. The robot’s ability to move quickly and accurately, combined with the high-quality laser beam produced by solid-state lasers, makes it an ideal choice for welding applications. The ability to work in hazardous environments also makes it a safe choice for many manufacturing applications.