Applications engineering: efficient wear protection for large tools

The aim of a new research project at the Hanover Laser Centre (LZH) is to develop an innovative deposit welding process that not only stabilises but also speeds up the inexpensive but imprecise inert gas metal arc welding process using laser beams. This is of particular interest for shaping dies, injection moulds or tooling required in mining and tunnel construction.

The work and costs involved in repair and wear protection for large tools are to be reduced substantially. This is the objective of a new research project at the Hanover Laser Centre (LZH). What is being developed is an innovative deposit welding process which not only stabilises but also speeds up the inexpensive but imprecise inert gas metal arc welding process using laser beams. This is of particular interest for shaping dies or injection moulds.

“The laser beams produce a path with higher conductivity directly in the electric arc”, says Alexander Barroi, who is an engineer at the LZH. “As a result, the laser specifies the amount of metal deposited and its location, while it is possible to weld more precisely and quickly than with the inert gas metal arc welding process alone.” On the one hand, the combination of an inert gas metal arc welding unit and a medium-capacity diode laser makes sure that the operating costs are kept relatively low. On the other hand, the accuracy of the new process makes sure that the finishing operations are reduced considerably. Further costs are saved due to the nature of the material deposited. Since wire is added instead of powder, the entire powder recovery system can be eliminated.

“What is particularly interesting is the development of a mobile system, with which repairs are possible directly on site,” adds Barroi. “Large tools do not therefore need to be removed and transported – a process that often leads to long downtimes.” The new deposit welding process is suitable not just for repair purposes but also for the protection of tool edges and surfaces against wear or corrosion. There are plans to open up further application areas, such as the structuring of complex components via deposit welding.

Further information:
Laser Zentrum Hannover e.V. (LZH)
Michael Botts
Hollerithallee 8
D-30419 Hanover
Tel.: +49 511 2788-151
Fax: +49 511 2788-100
E-mail: m.botts@lzh.de
www.lzh.de

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