Optimisation of the processes of laser, microplasma and hybrid laser–microplasma welding of aluminium alloys

Abstract

The results of investigation into laser, microplasma and hybrid laser–microplasma methods of welding aluminium alloys are presented. The optimum energy values for welding with the radiation of CO₂ lasers are determined. Shortcomings of microplasma welding are outlined and the main advantages of hybrid laser–microplasma welding are discussed. Detailed study of the macro- and microstructures of the welded joints and the heat affected zone shows that in all cases the structure is sufficiently equiaxed, dense, without visible defects and is dendritic.

Keywords:

• Laser welding
• microplasma welding
• hybrid welding
• linear energy
• dendritic structure

Notes

Selected from Svarochnoe Proizvodstvo, 2015, 68 (12) 26–31.