Chapter 5 - Developments in laser welding of aluminum alloys

Abstract

Lightweight materials such as aluminum alloys offer a good compromise between weight, mechanical properties, and costs, and therefore are the prominent choice for many industrial, transport, scientific, and domestic applications. They undergo extensive machining, processing, fabrication, and joining operations. Laser welding is a relatively new joining technique that provides high flexibility and productivity. Despite its advantages, laser welding of aluminum alloys is considered a complex and difficult task, limiting its application. In this chapter, the main issues regarding laser welding of aluminum alloys are reviewed. The most common aluminum alloys are presented, and the basics of laser welding of these alloys, its challenges, microstructure development, mechanical properties, welding imperfections, and their prevention are discussed.