Laser Hybrid Welding In Shipyards
In the shipbuilding industry, laser hybrid welding is a relatively new technology which offers several benefits to manufacturers. The process of laser hybrid welding combines the fast speed and high precision of laser welding with the deep penetration of resistance spot welding. This technology allows for thicker material to be welded faster and with greater precision than with traditional welding techniques. In addition, the process minimizes the occurrence of welding defects, helping ensure a high quality product.
Laser hybrid welding has been used in shipyard production since its introduction in the mid-1990s. It is used in the building and repair of a variety of vessel components, including the hull and deck superstructure. During the process, a single source laser beam creates a fusion between the two materials being welded. The welding process is automated and can be quickly set-up for various types of welding projects. As a result, the process time for laser hybrid welding is far faster than that of traditional welding methods, usually reducing the overall total joining time by up to 70%.
One of the biggest advantages of laser hybrid welding is its accuracy. The process eliminates many of the defects in the welds which can occur with traditional welding technologies. This ensures that welds are made quickly and accurately, and that the end product is of the highest quality. In addition, because the welds are much smaller than other welding methods, they create less heat, resulting in less distortion and less post-welding repair.
Other benefits of laser hybrid welding in shipbuilding include reduction of overall weld time, greater portability of the equipment and a higher level of accuracy than other processes. This often results in considerable cost savings compared to traditional welding techniques. Furthermore, the laser hybrid welding process produces welds with a much lower porosity than other welds due to the extremely high power levels involved.
In sum, laser hybrid welding is a reliable and cost effective method of welding thicker materials. It is widely used in the shipbuilding industry for a variety of purposes, including hull construction and deck repairs. The technology offers many advantages to users, such as improved speed, accuracy, and repeatability. Laser hybrid welding is often seen as a significant advancement over traditional welding techniques, as it allows for faster, more precise welding processes, with fewer defects and less post-welding repair.
