Handguided laser systems for new applications in material processing

Abstract

Lasers are versatile tools for material processing in manufacturing. In many fields of material processing, however, lasers cannot be used, because existing system technology often allows automated processing only by means of complex guidance systems. In these cases, handguided laser systems offer innovations, not only for individual applications but also in series production. For mobile applications on individual components, it is often desirable to use handguided laser systems to minimize the total amount of time and cost consisting of programming time and actual processing.The implementation of powerful handguided lasers had been hindered for several reasons which were basically safety aspects and the lack of small laser systems with suitable multi-functional processing heads. Flexible handguided laser systems are now gradually made possible by using powerful solid state lasers in conjunction with optical fibres.At Laser Zentrum Hannover e. V. (LZH) innovative systems for handguided welding, cutting and surface treatment have been developed, which incorporate the above mentioned aspects and allow reliable operation with a maximum laser power of up to 4 kW. Handguided laser welding systems have been designed to weld planar or slightly curved contours. Linear welds, spot- welded joints, Z-shaped welds or closed ring welds are also possible. Apart from overlap welds, also fillet welds and square butt welds can be welded when suitable shielding is used.Lasers are versatile tools for material processing in manufacturing. In many fields of material processing, however, lasers cannot be used, because existing system technology often allows automated processing only by means of complex guidance systems. In these cases, handguided laser systems offer innovations, not only for individual applications but also in series production. For mobile applications on individual components, it is often desirable to use handguided laser systems to minimize the total amount of time and cost consisting of programming time and actual processing.The implementation of powerful handguided lasers had been hindered for several reasons which were basically safety aspects and the lack of small laser systems with suitable multi-functional processing heads. Flexible handguided laser systems are now gradually made possible by using powerful solid state lasers in conjunction with optical fibres.At Laser Zentrum Hannover e. V. (LZH) innovative systems for handguided welding, cutting an...