Abstract
One method to widen the scope of applications for laser beam welding (LBW) is to use filler metal for bridging a root opening or to control weld chemistry. Use of filler metal also reduces the relative investment of laser equipment by increasing the weldable material thickness with the highest output power of the laser. Research in the field of laser beam welding with filler metal has mainly concentrated on the effect of filler metal on the weld metal composition.The use of filler metal with laser beam welding changes the welding process by adding one more component to the process, a cold wire filler metal. This paper deals with the laser beam-filler metal interaction, in particular the beam reflections from the filler metal. Entry of the wire into the focused cone of the CO{sub 2} laser beam causes the reflection of the laser beam. The form and intensity of this reflection depends on the wire feed rate and the laser power. Up to 57% of the incoming laser power may be reflected. The reflection`s portion and direction are important, because it can increase heating and melting of the pool or unmelted edges, and therefore, affect suitable welding parameters. The focusing optics also have an effect on the reflection.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 9-13 |
| Number of pages | 5 |
| Journal | Welding Journal |
| Volume | 75 |
| Issue number | 1 |
| Publication status | Published - 1996 |
| MoE publication type | A1 Journal article-refereed |