This video compares the performance of a handheld laser welder to traditional TIG welding, focusing on speed, heat distortion, and weld quality on stainless steel and aluminum. The demonstration, conducted at Denali Weld, shows that laser welding is substantially faster for lap joints on thin gauge stainless steel, producing minimal discoloration and distortion. The video also showcases the laser's superior penetration on aluminum, even with a smaller weld bead compared to TIG. Additional capabilities of the laser system, such as post-weld "seam cleaning" and remote rust/mill scale removal, are also demonstrated. As far as I can tell, the video is promotional content for Denali Weld's laser products.
Handheld Laser Welding vs. TIG: A Performance Comparison
0:00 Speed Comparison: The central premise is a speed test between handheld laser welding and pulse TIG welding on a 16-gauge stainless steel lap joint. The TIG weld took 50 seconds to complete a 6-inch run.
2:05 Laser Welding is Faster: The laser welder completed an 18-inch run on the same material in under 30 seconds. This equates to a travel speed of 36 inches per minute, which is far faster than the TIG process.
2:23 Low Heat Input: The laser process results in significantly less discoloration and distortion due to its high speed and concentrated heat input. This is presented as a major benefit for applications like stainless steel countertops and ducting where appearance and flatness are critical.
5:03 Aluminum Weld Penetration: A comparison is made between laser and TIG welds on 1/4-inch aluminum. A cross-section analysis shows that while the laser weld bead is smaller, it achieves deeper penetration into the root of the joint than the TIG weld.
6:58 Seam Cleaning Function: The laser system can be reconfigured for "seam cleaning." By defocusing the beam, it removes post-weld discoloration and oxides from stainless steel without abrading the surface. This can also be used for pre-cleaning.
8:08 Remote Cleaning Function: A separate "remote cleaning" head allows the laser to strip rust and mill scale from steel plates from a distance, without physical contact. The video correctly points out the need for a respirator when vaporizing unknown surface contaminants.
9:32 Target Applications: The technology is positioned for production environments where speed and minimizing distortion are priorities, particularly for companies working with sheet stainless steel for food processing equipment or exhaust hoods. It is not presented as a total replacement for the versatility of TIG welding.