Joining pipe with the hybrid laser-GMAW process: Weld test results and cost analysis

Hybrid laser-GMA welding is fast, making transition from laboratory to production, in industries as diverse as shipbuilding to automobile manufacturing. The potential benefits of this technology to a shipyard pipe shop suggests that significant cost savings may be realized. Laser beam welding offers high welding speed and develop deep penetration compared to conventional arc-based joining processes. Laser beam welding results in narrow heat affected zone characterized by high cooling rates that can result in a loss of ductility with certain materials. Welding of pipes represents a significant cost in the construction of tankers and other ships. At higher speeds and greater laser-to-Gmaw head spacing, the laser beam does not interact with the arc nor the material introduced by the GMAW process.