High-power CO₂ laser-MIG hybrid welding for increased gap tolerance. Hybrid weldability of thick steel plates with a square groove

Abstract

High power enhancement of laser processors has recently led to laser welding being used for the joining of thick steel plates. For example, the literature includes a study on the practical application of a 45 kW CO₂ laser for the welding of thick steel plates,¹ although few such applications have thus far been documented. The limited application of lasers to welding of thick steel plates is attributable to the narrow gap tolerance provided and the small laser beam diameter that leads to unacceptable welding defects, such as underfills, melt-through, and porosities.