Evaluation of Basic Laser Welding Capabilities.
Abstract
5456 AND 5086 Aluminum alloys were welded at 1.2-7.2 cm/s with a continuous CO2 laser operated at beam powers of 5-9 kW. Difficulty was experienced in reproducing weld bead geometries and depths of penetration from weld to weld. Control of the helium shield gas flow rate and flow pattern were observed to be particularly critical for maintenance of full penetration of the fusion zone in both 0.64 and 0.95 cm plates. The 5456 alloy was found to be more easily welded than 5086, presumably because of the approximately 1% greater magnesium content of the 5456. Full penetration butt welds were achieved with both alloys, but fusion zone drop through and weld bead porosity, in addition to consistency and reproducibility, remain as problems at this stage of the program. This report contains a detailed summary of the test welds produced and evaluations of these test welds to date. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1978
- Accession Number
- ADA058087
Entities
People
- David B. Snow
- Edward M. Breinan
Organizations
- United Technologies Corporation