Abstract
The laser welding of metals using continuous CO 2 lasers is a well-established industrial process; it has been studied in detail experimentally and theoretically. One problem of importance is to determine the thickness of the largest work piece that can be welded with complete penetration occurring at all times in a reliable fashion. There is empirical evidence that indicates that the keyhole radius at the top of the work piece is almost exactly three times the radius at the bottom in the case of maximum penetration. Theoretical interpretations have been constructed to explain this result and experimental evidence seems to support the predictions of models based on these interpretations in the case of the CO 2 laser operating on steel. A question of interest is whether the same mechanisms apply in the case of the pseudo-continuous Nd-YAG and CO lasers and if so what are the consequences. This paper investigates the differences in the theory and applies it to these two cases. Predictions are obtained for the type of behaviour that might be expected under such circumstances.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.