In laser-based welding applications, maintaining an unobstructed path for the laser beam is evident and crucial for achieving precision. With a variety of off-the-shelf welding optical heads, manufacturing engineers need to be aware of the characteristics of the laser beam output of the lens within that focusing head.
Related To: BOLD Laser Automation Inc Laser-based welding has revolutionized the manufacturing landscape, enabling the precise and efficient joining of intricate assemblies across diverse sectors, including medical devices, automotive, aerospace, and the growing battery and electric vehicle (EV) industries.
FIGURE 2. A palletized fixture being placed into the laser welding tool. Consider a medical device manufacturing scenario where tiny, intricate components must be laser-welded. An inadequately designed fixture can make it difficult for operators to position these delicate parts accurately.
The collimated beam diameter received at the focus lens, the cone angle output, the working distance of the focusing lens, and the spot size on the target all play a vital role in the laser material interaction during welding. Once the welding parameters are established, initial testing parameters can be brought to the laser machine tool.
To achieve the stability and repeatability required for precision welding, fixtures must excel in essential functions: ease of loading/unloading, ensuring optimal part contact, maintaining consistent fixture registration and component tolerances, and providing an unobstructed path for laser welding and alignment verification.
In the EV sector, where battery packs are assembled using laser welding, any gaps or misalignment in the components can affect the overall performance and longevity of the battery, potentially leading to costly recalls.