Laser welding machine allows coil end welding on strip as thin as 0.003 in.

Guild Intl. has introduced the LHMA laser welding machine. It creates complete edge-to-edge welds, without the need for start and stop tabs, on strip as thin as 0.003 in. According to the company, this capability has been unavailable until now. Current technology employing GTAW machines allows for welding strips no thinner than 0.008 in. and requires start and stop tabs.

The machine uses a fiber laser to deliver the necessary energy for welding via a fiber-optic cable connected to a focusing head. The focusing head concentrates the energy to a very fine spot to weld steel, stainless steel, copper and brass alloys, and aluminum.

The machine includes a camera and large HMI touchscreen, allowing the operator to view the strip fit-up before welding. In 2 min. the process of shearing, aligning, and welding the two coil ends is complete.

Weld schedules can be stored for quick retrieval, and the parameters are set with the HMI touchscreen. An interlocked safety enclosure provides the required safety for the operator.