Optimization of laser welded ASTM A36 mild steel with different laser beam oscillation patterns utilizing experimental and simulation data

Abstract

Recently, there has been an increase in the use of laser beam welding of mild steel in various industries, including petroleum refineries, power plants, pharmaceuticals, and even residential areas. This research paper focuses on studying the effects of laser welding process parameters, such as laser power and welding speed, on the tensile strength of welds. To do this, three types of laser beam oscillations (sinusoidal path, triangular path, and square path) were performed to weld 125mm x 60 and 1.8 thick sheets of ASTM A36 mild steel alloy. The researchers used statistical tools such as ANOVA to generate mathematical models and experimental designs using the Taguchi method. The results indicate that the optimal welded joint has good mechanical properties after laser welding. For ASTM A36 mild steel, the optimal parameters for laser welding are a laser power of 1800 W, a welding speed of 50 mm/s, and triangular welding mode.