Insights
June 21, 2023 · 2 min read · Materials
Because of your expertise, you’ve been tasked with joining two metals that have very different properties. Which welding technique should you use, laser or percussion?
This should serve as a refresher so that you can make an informed decision.
Chapter 01 / 07
Laser Welding
Laser welding uses a high-powered beam to melt and join metals together. The laser beam focuses on a small area, which creates a high-intensity source of heat that melts the metals. The resulting mix solidifies to create a strong bond.
Chapter 02 / 07
Advantages:
- Laser welding is a non-contact process which reduces the risk of contamination or distortion, making it ideal for applications where cleanliness is essential. The narrow heat-affected zone produced by laser welding minimizes the risk of thermal damage to the surrounding area, ensuring high-quality welds with minimal distortion. Laser welding is highly precise and can weld small and intricate parts with relative ease, making it an ideal choice for applications where precision is critical..
Want to see it on your parts?
Send samples and we'll run test welds before you commit.
Chapter 03 / 07
Other Factors to Consider:
- Requires highly skilled operators. Not for all types of metals, including those with high reflectivity.
Chapter 04 / 07
Percussion Welding
Percussion welding is a fast, efficient, and versatile process for welding different types of metals. It involves creating an electrical arc between the two pieces to be joined, which generates high-temperature heat that melts the materials. The materials are then thrust together in the percussive phase, creating a full bond between them with minimal distortion and a small heat-affected zone.
Chapter 05 / 07
Advantages:
- Can be a more cost-effective option than laser welding equipment due to the simplicity of the equipment and the low maintenance required.
- Joins dissimilar materials with different melting points, making it a versatile option for a range of welding applications.
- Can be used on metals with high reflectivity, such as aluminum and copper, which are difficult to weld using other processes.
- Reliable high-quality welds due to the percussive force that creates a strong bond between the metals and no introduction of filler material.
- Produces minimal distortion; this makes it a sound option for precision welding applications, especially when dealing with delicate components or dissimilar materials.
Want to see it on your parts?
Send samples and we'll run test welds before you commit.
Chapter 06 / 07
Other Factors to Consider:
- Requires a clean and flat surface to ensure a good bond..
Chapter 07 / 07
Which One Should be Used for Dissimilar Metals?
The best technique depends on the specific metals being joined, the desired result, and the available budget. Consider these factors before your next welding project:
- Melting point of the joined metals
- Metal reflectivity
- Size and complexity of the parts being joined
- Details regarding the precision and quality of the weld
- Budget for equipment and maintenance
There is no one-size-fits-all solution. Both laser welding and percussion welding have advantages, which is why the best technique depends on the particulars of your project. When choosing a welding technique, consider the melting point, reflectivity, size, complexity, precision, and budget.
Contact us today to discuss your specific application.
Part of: Process & Technique
More on process & technique
How Percussion Welding Works →FAQ
What is percussion welding?
A heat-plus-impact process for joining metals.
An electric arc supplies the heat, then a rapid mechanical movement forces the two materials together, forming a full metallic bond with no filler.
Do I need filler metal, solder or flux?
No. There's no filler, solder or flux, and no electrodes to wear out.
That means cleaner joints, less waste, and no consumables to buy.
How do I know if my materials can be welded?
Start with the Parameter Finder or the weld schedules table.
If your pair isn't listed, tell us your weld challenge. We'll reply with a straight answer about whether percussion welding is a fit, and how.
Still have a question? Tell us your weld challenge and an engineer will reply.
Start here
Share what you're joining and what's going wrong. We'll tell you straight whether percussion welding is a fit.
Prefer to talk? Book a demo or call 303-536-7838