Penetration depth in laser beam welding

Abstract

The depth of penetration in laser beam welding of steels has been determined by two different techniques. A 23 factorial experiment was used to calculate the depth of penetration as a function of laser power, welding speed, and focal distance. Using Yates’ algorithm, the main effects, the two-factor, and three-factor interactions were determined. A generalized multivariable least squares analysis of the data resulted in an equation which expressed the depth of penetration as a function of power, speed, focal distance, and all combinations of the those variables. A dimensional analysis of laser beam welding resulted in an functional relationship that expressed the depth of welding as a function of laser power, welding speed, beam diameter, and thermal properties of the steel. Both of these techniques were then used to compare the calculations with sets of experimental data.The depth of penetration in laser beam welding of steels has been determined by two different techniques. A 23 factorial experiment was used to calculate the depth of penetration as a function of laser power, welding speed, and focal distance. Using Yates’ algorithm, the main effects, the two-factor, and three-factor interactions were determined. A generalized multivariable least squares analysis of the data resulted in an equation which expressed the depth of penetration as a function of power, speed, focal distance, and all combinations of the those variables. A dimensional analysis of laser beam welding resulted in an functional relationship that expressed the depth of welding as a function of laser power, welding speed, beam diameter, and thermal properties of the steel. Both of these techniques were then used to compare the calculations with sets of experimental data.