Joining Pipe with the Hybrid Laser-GMAW Process: Weld Test Results and Cost Analysis

Abstract

It has been nearly a quarter of a century since researchers first conceived of combining a conventional welding arc with a laser beam in a hybrid process but only recently has lasergas metal arc (GMA) hybrid welding begun to be utilized in industrial applications. Now, hybrid laser-GMA welding is fast making the transition from laboratory to production, in industries as diverse as shipbuilding to automobile manufacturing. Recent work investigating the potential benefit of applying this technology to a shipyard pipe shop suggests that significant cost savings may be realized. This paper presents ongoing efforts to study and evaluate hybrid welding, and to estimate potential cost savings that may be realized in a shipyard pipe welding shop.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 01, 2006
Accession Number
ADA495218

Entities

People

  • Darlene A. Mikesic
  • Edward W. Reutzel
  • Michael J. Sullivan

Organizations

  • Pennsylvania State University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Counter WMD
  • Energy and Power Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Base Metal
  • Cost Analysis
  • Costs
  • Geometry
  • Joining
  • Joints
  • Laser Beams
  • Laser Welding
  • Lasers
  • Materials
  • Mechanical Properties
  • Shipbuilding
  • Shipyards
  • Thickness
  • Universities
  • Welding
  • Welds

Readers

  • Economics
  • Metallurgy
  • Naval Engineering and Maritime Security

Technology Areas

  • Directed Energy