Interaction mechanisms in hybrid laser arc welding

Abstract

Achievable benefits in hybrid laser-arc welding are closely related to suitable parameter settings. Basic optimizations consequently need a profound understanding of the relevance of involved interaction mechanisms. These are however differently evaluated and discussed in literature. This paper gives an over-view on the most popular hypotheses in the field of laser-arc processing. The importance of direct interactions between laser radiation and arc plasma as well as the role of metal evaporation are particularly considered by own experimental and numerical investigations. The results of this analysis suggest that these phenomena cannot be regarded as main driving mechanisms for synergistic achievements in hybrid laser-arc welding with respect to process stability and performance.Achievable benefits in hybrid laser-arc welding are closely related to suitable parameter settings. Basic optimizations consequently need a profound understanding of the relevance of involved interaction mechanisms. These are however differently evaluated and discussed in literature. This paper gives an over-view on the most popular hypotheses in the field of laser-arc processing. The importance of direct interactions between laser radiation and arc plasma as well as the role of metal evaporation are particularly considered by own experimental and numerical investigations. The results of this analysis suggest that these phenomena cannot be regarded as main driving mechanisms for synergistic achievements in hybrid laser-arc welding with respect to process stability and performance.