Handheld laser welders have been an indispensable tool for many industries thanks to their portability, high safety levels and versatility. One question that often pops up is whether or not portable laser welding can be applied to dissimilar metals. The answer is yes, but with some necessary precautions.
Firstly, let’s define what we mean by dissimilar metals. It is when two metals with different atomic structures and chemical compositions are joined together. This can pose a challenge when it comes to welding as different metals may require different welding processes, temperatures, and filler metals. For instance, welding aluminum to steel or copper to stainless steel will require different techniques.
Traditionally, welding dissimilar metals required a great deal of skill, and various methods, including brazing, resistance welding, and mechanical fasteners, were often used instead of welding. However, with the advancement in laser welding technology, it is now possible to weld dissimilar metals with ease.
Laser welding dissimilar metals is possible because the laser produces a very concentrated beam of light. It can melt the metal on a very small scale, and the weld can be precisely controlled. The speed and the intensity of the laser beam make it an ideal tool for welding dissimilar metals with minimum distortion.
There are, however, some precautions that need to be taken when laser welding dissimilar metals. For instance, the right combination of laser source and filler material must be selected based on the specific needs of the application. Also, the weldability of dissimilar metals can vary significantly, and some combinations may require the use of a special type of laser.
Furthermore, it is important to note that the different thermal properties of dissimilar metals can cause problems when welding. For example, copper and aluminum are both highly thermally conductive, but aluminum melts at a lower temperature than copper. Welding these two metals would require a welding process that can apply the correct amount of heat to both metals for them to be properly welded together.
In conclusion, handheld laser welders are capable of welding dissimilar metals with ease. With the right combination of laser source and filler material, along with the proper application of heat, dissimilar metals can be welded together with minimum distortion. As such, laser welding represents a new frontier in the joining of metals, as it opens up new possibilities for design and production across a wide range of industries.