Robotic Nd:YAG-Laser Welding System and Its Applications

In this paper, the robotic Nd:YAG-laser welding system operated by the Aerospace Manufacturing Technology Center of NRC-IAR is described. The system is an advanced laser processing system built around a 4000W Haas Nd:YAG-laser, which has fiber optics for laser beam transmission. An ABB 4400 industrial robot is used for holding the processing optics. Various beam configurations can be used for different processes, including welding, cutting and heat treatment, either with single beam or dual beam laser spots. The system is also equipped with a sophisticated MVS vision-tracking device, which enables reliable and repeatable processing conditions. A convenient electro-magnetic base equipped with different fixtures is available for accurate positioning of the parts. The system also comes with a state-of-art wire feeder specially designed for welding aluminum alloys and super alloys used in the aerospace industry. Welding can be run in manual or automatic mode, making the system suitable for both research and production work. Several applications of this welding system will be presented.