Handheld laser welding machines and argon arc welding are two different technologies used for welding. Both these technologies have their own advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the right one for a specific application depends on several factors.
Top 6 differences between the handheld laser and argon arc welding
In this article, we will compare handheld laser welding machines and argon arc welding, and outline the differences between the two.
Energy consumption
Compared with traditional arc welding, the handheld laser welding machine saves about 80% to 90% of electric energy, and the processing cost can be reduced by about 30%.
Welding process
Handheld laser welding is a non-contact welding process that uses a high-energy laser beam to melt the metal and join two pieces. The laser beam is directed at the joint, and the heat generated by the laser melts the metal, which then cools and solidifies to form a weld. Argon arc welding, on the other hand, is a contact welding process that uses an electric arc to melt the metal. The electric arc is created between a tungsten electrode and the workpiece, and the process is carried out under an inert gas shield, usually argon.
Speed and precision
Handheld laser welding is able to achieve higher speeds than argon arc welding, as the laser beam can be focused to a very small spot size, which generates a high intensity of heat and effectively melts the metal. This allows for faster welding, as well as more precise control over the weld. In contrast, argon arc welding is a slower process that requires more attention to detail and a skilled operator who can control the welding arc to ensure a precise and accurate weld.
Quality of the weld produced
Handheld laser welding produces a very high-quality weld, with minimal distortion and minimal heat input into the material. This is because laser welding is a non-contact process that does not require any physical contact with the material being welded. The result is a very clean, precise weld that requires no post-welding cleaning or finishing. In contrast, argon arc welding can produce a less clean weld, with more spatter and slag, and may require additional post-welding cleaning or finishing.
Welding effect
Laser handheld welding can complete dissimilar steel and dissimilar metal welding. The speed is fast, the deformation is small, and the heat-affected zone is small. The weld seam is beautiful, flat, no/few porosity, and no pollution. The handheld laser welding machine can perform tiny open-shaped parts and precision welding.
Subsequent process
During laser hand-held welding, the heat input is low, the deformation of the workpiece is small, a beautiful welding surface can be obtained, and no or only simple treatment is required (depending on the requirements of the welding surface effect). Handheld laser welding machines can greatly reduce the labor cost of the huge polishing and leveling process.
Applications of handheld laser welding and argon arc welding
Handheld laser welding machines are ideal for welding thin-gauge metals, as they produce very little distortion in the material and allow for precise control over the weld. They are also great for welding small parts that require a high degree of accuracy and precision. However, they can be more expensive to purchase and operate than argon arc welding machines.
Argon arc welding is a more versatile and cost-effective method of welding. It allows for greater flexibility in welding dissimilar metals, as well as thicker materials, and can be used for a wider range of applications. Additionally, argon arc welding is a simpler process to learn and does not require as much training or skill as laser welding. However, the quality of the weld produced may not be as high as with laser welding, and additional cleaning or finishing may be required.
Summary
Both handheld laser welding machines and argon arc welding have their own advantages and disadvantages. When deciding which method to use, it is important to consider the materials being welded, the required precision and speed of the weld, and the budget available for equipment and training. For applications requiring precision and high-quality welds in thin materials, handheld laser welding may be the best option. For applications requiring greater flexibility and versatility, as well as cost-effectiveness, argon arc welding may be the better choice.