The success of any laser welding process depends on careful consideration of ALL the parameters and their interactions with each other. A Laser Weld Feasibility Study determines if laser welding is right for your application. With so many possible combinations, PECo relies on our 60+ years of welding experience and records of previous developments to help us define the parameters needed to produce a successful weld for you.

In general, laser weld feasibility studies follow these steps:

1. PECo will evaluate your parts and specifications and compare them to our records of similar developments.
2. PECo will then choose the initial set of weld parameters and, using a 3-jaw chuck or simple mandrel, will weld the assembly.
3. The welded assembly will be sectioned through the weld and evaluated for weld penetration and nugget characteristics.
4. The laser power, relative beam speed, beam location, shielding gas delivery and optic parameters are adjusted and a subsequent assembly welded. Steps 3 & 4 repeat until the desired response variables are achieved or it is determined that parts modifications are required before they can be achieved.
5. If Step 4 is successful, weld assemblies are produced using the final input parameters and destructive testing is conducted, evaluated, and reported.

At this point other modifications to the welding process may still be required including changes in material, alterations in the fixture, addition of weld tacks or modifications to the assembled parts. These modifications can be addressed in a PECo weld development study.