Title: Review on processing stability, weld defects, finite element analysis, and field assisted welding of ultra-high-power laser (≥ 10 kW) welding

Authors: Lu Wang; Youmin Rong

Addresses: School of Mechanical Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China ' School of Mechanical Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China

Abstract: The ultra-high-power laser welding, with obvious characteristics of fast welding speed, small heat input, small deformation, large aspect ratio, high alignment, and high directivity, has a huge application potential. In this paper, the research findings and progress for ultra-high-power laser welding are critically reviewed in the last ten years. The investigation state of ultra-high-power laser welding is classified and summarised from the point of processing stability, common weld defects, application of numerical simulation, and external field assisted welding. Finally, the potential research problems and challenges based on ultra-high-power laser (≥ 10 kW) welding are discussed. This fundamental work aims to review the research progress in laser welding monitoring and provide a basis for follow-on research.

Keywords: laser welding; ultra-high-power laser; processing; defects; numerical simulation; external field.

DOI: 10.1504/IJHM.2022.123135

International Journal of Hydromechatronics, 2022 Vol.5 No.2, pp.167 - 190

Received: 16 Aug 2021
Accepted: 29 Jan 2022
Published online: 30 May 2022 *