TPT July 2010

T echnology u pdate

Adoption of laser welding starts with prototyping

reduction of the end product and reduction of waste materials. With welding, sometimes the reason for prototyping is just for gaining information about the possible cycle times and the quality. However, in most cases it is for the validation of the welding process. At its test facility AWL defines the weld parameters based on the following characteristics: the right heat-affected spot; necessary weld depth; welding length and width; optimal welding speed; and ideal welding patterns. The most common reasons for carrying out weld-process validation are: new product development; change from conventional to laser welding; optimising ROI; and improving the weld process. As laser welding can be used for both creating cosmetic welds and creating high output by keyhole welding, the technique is applicable to a large variety of markets in the general sheet metal industry and the

AWL is a developer and producer of state- of-the-art automated welding machines for customers based all over Europe. Laser welding is a fast and clean process, and has a broad scope of applications. High welding speeds and short weld-to- weld times are key to the high output laser welding can generate, and the weld made by a laser can be a cosmetic one, requiring no post-process treatments. The adoption of laser welding is not always easy. Different opinions and ideas about the benefits of new and existing methods, the parameters of the process, and compatibility with the current production process are the main reasons for discussion when thinking of adopting laser welding as the new standard. In order to get a better understanding of the advantages laser welding can offer, companies can test the new technology in AWL’s laser-test facility. AWL sees three major drivers for

moving into laser welding: cost savings, uniform quality and product design. When using laser welding on products with high production numbers, long welding lengths and/or many subparts, the cost savings, in comparison with traditional welding methods, can be impressive. These savings are primarily created by high welding speeds, quick weld-to-weld times, fast change-over times and the possibility for automated loading of the parts. Automated loading can also result in the use of fewer machines and operators. The unique product design needed for successful laser welding, combined with accurate fixture clamping, makes uniform quality possible. High welding speed and low heat input enable long continuous welding lengths, due to the fact that the reach ability and weld accessibility are easier than with other welding methods. It is now possible to develop new product designs, gaining maximum results in weight

automotive industry. AWL-Techniek BV – The Netherlands Fax: +31 341 411822 Email: info@awl.nl Website: www.awl.nl

NEW SOLID STATE WELDERS • NEW TUBE MILLS “A TOTAL APPROACH” TO NEW TUBE PRODUCTION AND SOLID STATE WELDING

Advantages of FMS Tube Mills (complete from uncoiler to cut-off) Custom, proven, flexible design • Efficient tooling change over • Fast delivery • Installation and start up assistance • Full factory warranty •

We also supply second hand tube mills and related equipment

Advantages of FMS Solid StateWelders Ease and flexibility of operation • Custom made or special work coils NOT required • More control of weld seam of “heat affected zone” • Considerable power consumption savings • Modular design for better reliability • Competitive pricing • Affordable training, service and spare parts •

NEW AFFORDABLE ALTERNATIVE CONTACT US FOR A COMPETITIVE QUOTATION

Phone: 419-832-0787 Fax: 419-832-6000 • info@freedommillsystems.com P.O. Box 468, 12232 River Road, Grand Rapids, OH 43522

Contact us for a list of satisfied customers

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J uly 2010

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