Guide to high average power Nd:YAG laser processing with fibre-optic beam delivery for metals

TWI Industrial Member Report Summary 545/1996

S T Riches and J C Ion

A new generation of high average power Nd:YAG lasers, which can transmit energy through a fibre-optic cable, are making an industrial impact, especially for complex geometries and remote applications.

Background

The development of high average power Nd:YAG lasers (2-4kW) with fibre- optic beam delivery systems, has created widespread industrial interest, particularly for three-dimensional and remote applications. Although awareness of the availability of high average power Nd:YAG lasers has improved, there is little independent information published on the processing capabilities of this new generation of lasers and the types of application where Nd:YAG lasers may be technically and economically viable.

This guide is concerned with providing initial data on the processing capabilities of high average power Nd:YAG lasers, giving details of welding, cutting and surfacing performance on a range of materials, including steels and non-ferrous alloys ( eg aluminium and titanium) and highlighting areas where this type of laser is poised to make an impact in industrial application.

Objective

• To produce a guide on the current status of materials processing using high average power Nd:YAG lasers.