laser weld vs EBW

Date 03-16-2005 08:00

Dear all,
i am alfred, from Indonesia
The procedure ask to weld a part with EBW, but i try to change the process with Laser Weld.

In the same condition in weld joint, which is stronger, Laser or EBW?
What is the difference between Laser and EBW, in the technical consideration?
Does any body have a data about the strength of those process?

thank you

By ajoy

Date 03-16-2005 10:23

Both the processes are generally autogenous but there is a marked difference in their applications. Sound full penetration welds done by both the processes will have the same mechanical properties. As the procedures are qualified based on certain applications in a mass production line, changing such welding processes need a bit of re-engineering.

Both the processes are used of mass production welds of exotic materials, lets say titanium alloys. Laser welds are generally for very thin butt or corner welds whereas EBW has a high penetration and thus can handle thick walled butt welds. As the set up for each of the welding station is quite expensive and elaborate, the decision to change the welding process should be based on one key question :

Considering the thickness of the job, is it technically possible and commercially viable to change the process to Laser welding ?

By KevinA Date 12-19-2007 15:36

The strength of EBW and Laser will be essentially identical. The strength is a function of the weld size, weld interface size, and microstructure. Both processes can produce a high aspect ration weld (depth/width). The advantages of laser are no vacuum systems are required to make the weld, so the systems tend to be low maintenance.