In microwelding, a main concern in all applications is the Heat-Affected Zone (HAZ), which is the area surrounding the weld where the temperature was elevated during the welding process, affecting the strength of the material. The size and severity of the HAZ depend on various factors such as the welding method, the material being welded, the heat input, and the cooling rate. As a welder, it is important to minimize the HAZ as much as possible, as this will ensure the safety and durability of the welded material.
There are many types of micro welding techniques, but two of the most common methods for minimizing the HAZ are laser and percussion welding.
Percussion Welding
Percussion welding involves the use of a short electrical current and a brief application of pressure to melt and fuse the similar or dissimilar metals. The size of the HAZ in percussion welding is typically small due to the short duration of heat exposure. However, the size of the HAZ can still be influenced by factors such as the diameter or thickness of the materials being welded.
Laser Welding
The process of laser welding involves a tightly direct laser beam that supplies the heat used in melting and welding the metals together. The process conducts a series of short pulses, heating the welded material on the exact spot necessary for the welding. Laser welding unusually requires a heating period greater than that of percussion welding, resulting in a larger and more intense HAZ.
Both laser and percussion welding have their pros and cons when it comes to the size of the heat-affected zone (HAZ). Laser welding typically yields a moderate HAZ. Laser welding requires more setup time and is generally more expensive than percussion welding. On the other hand, percussion welding yields a small HAZ, depending on various factors, and it is a quick process that is easy to operate and produces high-quality welds with little or no distortion.
Percussion welding can result in a smaller HAZ than laser welding. Consider various factors, including the welding speed, accuracy, materials to be welded, equipment, and operator skill when determining whether percussion welding is better than laser welding for a specific application. It is important to carefully consider all of these factors and conduct thorough testing before deciding which welding method to use for a particular application.
As a welder, choosing a method that would grant you less HAZ during the welding process is important. Contact us today to discuss your specific application.