Battery Laser Welding for Battery Pack Manufacturing Laser welding is one of the most promising joining technologies for EV batteries and energy storage systems. It provides the speed and precision needed to make the thousands of welds that connect tabs and busbars in battery packs, modules, and cells.
To meet this growing demand, SIL has developed the Lithium Ion Battery Laser Welding Machine. This innovative machine enables precise welding of prismatic cells made from materials such as aluminum, aluminum alloy, stainless steel, or OFHC Copper. It is capable of welding components with a thickness ranging from 0.5 mm to 3 mm.
Each battery type has different soldering requirements. The key to welding cylindrical battery types is the negative terminal weld, where the cell is welded directly to the can, rather than a separate platform on the positive side. The weld on the negative terminal must not penetrate the can thickness, which is typically about 0.015 inch (0.3 mm).
All types of battery cells can be laser welded, including cylindrical cells, prismatic cells, and pouch cells. Laser welding is being implemented for a wide range of electric battery applications: With more than 6kW of laser power, the welding speed can be scaled to meet short cycle time requirements.
Laser welding is being implemented for a wide range of electric battery applications: With more than 6kW of laser power, the welding speed can be scaled to meet short cycle time requirements. Lasers also require minimal maintenance, so they are ideal for production line automation. Laser welding can be optimized for minimal heat input.
Laser welding can be optimized for minimal heat input. As a result, batteries do not suffer from excessive heating and maintain better mechanical properties. Lasers can weld dissimilar materials with varying fusion temperatures without the need for filler material. Examples include steel-copper, steel-aluminum, aluminum-copper, and steel-nickel.