Design of weld joints for non-autogenous laser welding of thick sections

Lasers are known to offer substantial benefits when compared to conventional welding techniques such as gas-metal arc welding. Laser welding can produce deep penetration welds with a small heat affected zone at high speeds, resulting in improved material properties at the joint and reduced thermal distortion. However, the benefits of laser welding are often not realized until joint design modifications are considered. Laser welding, when viewed as an alternative welding method, generally must accommodate a joint designed for conventional welding processes. This work details development of parameters for a conventionally designed weld joint and investigates the benefit of joints specifically designed for laser welding.Lasers are known to offer substantial benefits when compared to conventional welding techniques such as gas-metal arc welding. Laser welding can produce deep penetration welds with a small heat affected zone at high speeds, resulting in improved material properties at the joint and reduced thermal distortion. However, the benefits of laser welding are often not realized until joint design modifications are considered. Laser welding, when viewed as an alternative welding method, generally must accommodate a joint designed for conventional welding processes. This work details development of parameters for a conventionally designed weld joint and investigates the benefit of joints specifically designed for laser welding.