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Title: Characterization of a laser-beam spinning technique

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/6538607· OSTI ID:6538607

The objective of this study was to evaluate the beam spinning technique for bridging gaps in butt joints that are CO{sub 2} laser-welded. A device was designed and built to circularly oscillate a CO{sub 2} laser beam on the plant of a work surface. A series of welds was made using a continuous-wave output power of 805 watts, and the resultant weld bead profile was characterized as a function of three process parameters. From the experimental results, predictor equations were derived for laser-beam spinning speed and amplitude of the beam spinning pattern on the work surface. The data collected in this experiment indicate that the width of the weld bead is increased by oscillating the beam and that this increase may be made without significantly reducing the weld penetration. The increased width of the weld may offer a solution to variable gaps in weld joints, which has been a recurring production problem. 13 figs., 1 tab.

Research Organization:
Sandia National Lab. (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
DOE/ER
DOE Contract Number:
AC04-76DP00789
OSTI ID:
6538607
Report Number(s):
SAND-88-1215; ON: DE91000478
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English