Hybrid arc welding pairs two arc welding processes such as GTAW (Gas-Tungsten Arc Welding) and PAW (Plasma Arc Welding), or GMAW-P and PAW. Predominant advantages are high penetration up to 3/8-in (9 mm) with keyhole PAW and simultaneous filling of a small vee groove to weld ½-in or more in a SECB configuration for stainless steels, nickel alloys and stainless steels. These processes can also be used in a conduction mode for high speed welding of sheet products at speeds from 80-160 in/min (2-4 m/min).
Hybrid laser arc welding (HLAW) combines a laser with an arc welding process, typically GMAW-P, but also GTAW and PAW. The laser generates high penetration and high welding speed. The arc welding process widens the tolerance for joint gap, and provides filler material. Welding speeds are typically 80-200 in/min (2-5 m/min). The process is suitable for all steels and higher alloy materials. Extensive work on welding of pipeline steels has demonstrated this technology as deployable in field welding as well as in a shop environment based on the ruggedness of fiber lasers. For high speed welding of thin titanium, use of low laser power (only 200-600W) stabilizes the arc cathode spot so that small fillet welds can be readily produced at high speed and low distortion.
In both cases the combined welding processes increase welding speed, and reduce distortion.
For more information, contact Dr. Ian Harris at 614 688 5131 or [email protected]