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Optimizing fiber laser processes

According to experts, understanding requirements of such processes as laser system welding, fiber laser cutting, and laser beam marking as well as the production facility promotes the development of a reliable system for the production that will increase the production rate and yield.

Nowadays numerous companies prefer to apply a define – design – deliver methodology that allows defining not only the equipment but also the best process through clear system design. Therefore, the understanding of fiber laser processes pays a crucial role in success as the laser beam source itself.

It should be noted that it is necessary to pay careful attention to not only basics but also other factors, for example, the climate of a factory can influence the range of potential optimal solutions. The thing is that some fiber laser systems may not operate as expected in a facility located near the equator that lacks air conditioning.

Herewith, although customer needs define the choice of materials, they may not always be suitable for laser system welding. Nonetheless, experienced engineers can help ensure a successful laser beam process. For instance, one customer wanted to move from resistance welding to fiber laser welding but brass includes too much zinc to be effectively laser welded resulting in replacement of brass with bronze or pure copper.

Additionally, the choice of fiber laser system equipment is also essential. “Unlike resistance welding, laser beam welding is a non-contact process and doesn’t utilize electrodes to hold parts in place, so customers must develop part fixturing to hold parts in place during welding.”

It is possible to revise the laser system process itself to unlock production potential. Some customers prefer to perform a butt weld to join two pieces with beveled or round edges, however, the efficiency of metal welding suffers in this case. Thus, specialists recommend not to perform welding rounded corners, and instead implement a laser beam process in which operators can round off corners after the weld has been completed.

When samples meet the required parameters, it is necessary to design a favorable solution. Herewith, there are two options for laser system welding: pulsed and fiber laser systems. Both laser technologies offer virtually the same performance but have different serviceability. To be more precise, the impulsed laser system is considered to be field serviceable, whereas a fiber laser must be sent back to the factory for repair and servicing. Nevertheless, the choice of specific system depends on process-specific requirements.

Optromix is a fast-growing fiber laser manufacturer and a vendor of optical fiber sensors and optical monitoring systems. The company offers fast turnkey solutions and creates sophisticated fiber laser systems for special purposes. Optromix uses only its technologies and develops a broad variety of fiber lasers. If you have any questions or would like to buy a laser system, please contact us at info@optromix.com