Laser Processes use laser energy to modify the shape or appearance of a material. The resulting effect depends on the wavelength and power level of the laser as well as the absorption characteristics and chemical composition of the material.
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Laser Cutting
A laser is a type of machine that uses a high-powered beam of light to cut, burn, vaporize or melt materials. These types of machines are used in many industries, especially manufacturing.
They can cut through different types of materials, including metals, plastics, wood, and even glass. They are also fast and versatile, making them an ideal choice for production environments.
Generally, laser cutting is a subtractive process that produces little waste. It’s also clean, which means that it won’t damage the material it cuts.
The process involves the use of a computer numerical control system and a special programming system known as G-code to direct the laser’s movements, which ensures the quality of the end product.
Using a laser to cut sheet metal is a great way to produce intricate shapes and designs. It’s also a very efficient and clean method that requires minimal maintenance.
Laser Engraving
Laser engraving is a highly versatile process that works with a variety of materials. It’s important to understand how this type of marking works before you begin your project.
The most common way to mark a material is through laser engraving, which involves focusing a laser beam on the surface of a material at a suitable power level. The material will then vaporize, leaving a permanent marking on the surface of the item.
This process is very fast, and it’s compatible with a wide range of materials. This makes it particularly convenient for rapid manufacturing processes.
The engraving process also creates a permanent marking on the surface of the material, so you won’t have to worry about changing it later. This is an ideal solution for companies that need a reliable, long-lasting and durable mark on their products.
Laser Marking
Laser marking is a versatile process that can be used on a wide range of materials. It is a no-contact technique that is environmentally friendly and requires low maintenance.
There are four main types of laser marking: etching, engraving, foaming and annealing. The laser beam heats a surface to produce a mark that is raised above the rest of the material, resulting in high contrast and a permanent marking.
During laser etching, a metal workpiece is heated to its melting point by a laser beam. The molten metal is then removed from the surface by vaporising where the laser impinges.
Laser etching is faster than laser engraving as it requires less energy. However, it is less durable as the depth of the mark cannot be as deep as with engraving. This is why the specifications for laser marked parts often specify minimum or maximum penetration depths into a material.
Laser Welding
Laser welding is a process that uses light to join materials. It is used for all types of metals and can be used to weld thin sheets to thicker ones.
The weld is made by a high-powered laser, which vaporizes the metal surface. This creates a narrow tunnel, known as a keyhole, which extends down into the joint.
There are two main kinds of laser welding: solid-state lasers and gas lasers. The latter use a mixture of gases such as helium, nitrogen and carbon dioxide as the lasing medium.
Some low-powered (500W) lasers can be used for heat conduction welding, which heats the metal to above its melting point. This produces a smooth, aesthetical weld.
ESAB has developed adaptive welding technology that senses part conditions and changes the laser power, gas metal arc parameters, wire feed speed, voltage, and gas flow as the laser weld head travels through the part. This helps to widen the process window for hybrid laser welding and reduce the likelihood of hot cracking.
