Laser welding is the choice for companies looking to increase productivity and reduce welding operating costs. Laser welding is more accessible and affordable than ever before – providing faster travel speeds and weld consistency than other welding processes in automated welding applications. Increase productivity and save assets A key factor in any welding application is finding ways to increase productivity and save assets. Companies are often concerned with technological advances to achieve these goals, but many operations may not consider laser welding – it may be considered too expensive or too complex. Advances in laser welding technology are more accessible and affordable than ever before. The process also offers significant productivity benefits that can lead to a quick return on investment. It is particularly suitable for sheet metal welding. Is laser welding right for your sheet metal operation? Consider these key factors and benefits. Benefits of Laser Welding Laser welding provides travel speeds that are five to ten times faster than TIG welding and three to five times faster than MIG welding in some applications. It is also an excellent alternative to resistance spot welding in many applications. Developing Laser Welding The use of laser welding in automated welding applications continues to increase due to technological developments, and this method is more readily available and less expensive. Laser welding is used to join metal parts. Traditionally, high-power lasers use carbon dioxide as the material and have a wavelength of about 10 μm. This wavelength of laser cannot be transmitted via fiber optic cables, making it difficult to automate the laser welding process. In this regard, technological advances have boosted the field. the evolution of the μm wavelength laser means that the laser can be transmitted via fiber optic cables, making it easier to perform automated welding. In addition, 1 μm wavelength lasers were typically powered by diodes. As manufacturers become more adept at producing powerful diodes, fewer and fewer diodes are needed to power these lasers. This will continue to reduce the sector power costs of laser welding systems. Metal sheets are typically very thin and require low heat input for welding. Commonly used in applications such as appliances, signs or elevator panels that must have high aesthetic quality or decorative styling. Laser welding can handle these requirements very well. In addition, laser welding sometimes does not require filler metal or shielding gas. This allows welding to have a very low wheel corridor, does not require polishing, saves time and money, and helps increase productivity of controls. For example, a common sheet metal application is the manufacture of electrical boxes. When MIG welding, post-weld polishing is often required to remove excess weld reinforcement from the outer corners. Laser welding saves time and money on post-weld cleaning. Significant productivity gains Laser welding is an unknown or unexplored option for many manufacturers using automated welding, but it is as easy to implement as any other robotic welding system. The efficient driving speed and low heat input of laser welding are ideal for precision and aesthetically pleasing sheet metal welding applications.