Fiber Laser Welding Machine – the Ultimate FAQs Guide

Are you looking for the best fiber laser welding machine? But finding it hard to find the information you require?

Here’s the solution!

We have gathered all the information you need to know about fiber laser welding machines.

By the end of this article, you will know the answers to all the major FAQs regarding Fiber Laser Welding Machines.

Let’s begin.

1.   What is a Fiber Laser Welding Machine?

A fiber laser welding machine involves an active fiber and a laser light, leading to the strong bond between various large and small materials (typically metals).

With the help of fiber laser welding machines, it is possible to weld the smaller parts with high efficiency at low power and affordable costs.

However, the heavier metals can also be welded with a fiber laser welding machine at a higher speed with great precision and accuracy.

The high-power fiber laser welding machines have vast applications in various fields such as kitchen tops, stainless steel sheets, sheet steels in electric motors, and backplates of LCD screens.

Consequently, the use of fiber laser welding machines is increasing day by day, and it is supposed that it will replace the normal welding processes by 20%-30% in the coming years.

Figure 1 Fiber Laser Welding Machine

2.   What are the Applications of Fiber Laser Welding Machines?

The applications of fiber laser welding machines are distributed amongst all kinds of industries. Following are some of its beneficial aspects:

• The fiber laser welding machines serve as an excellent help for polymers and metals as they can be applied over movable objects.
• It consists of guide light properties that prohibit the thermal distortion in the optical pathway that results in the focused high optical beam on the object with intensified heat and power.
• The fiber laser welding machine has a compact size which makes it fit in a smaller area.
• They provide high power exertion as compared to the traditional techniques of laser welding machines.
• Consequently, the fiber laser machines are cost-saving in both terms, i.e., it reduces the operational costs and maintenance costs.
• Due to their outstanding stability, high temperature, easy maintenance, and long-lasting life, the use of fiber laser machines are frequently increasing.
• For high accuracy and precision, fiber welding machines are introduced in many industries and high-performance equipment.
• With high efficiency and fast speed, they are a time-saving option in the laser marking and engraving industry.

Figure 2 Stainless Steel Fiber Laser Welding Machine

3.   How Does Fiber Laser Welding Machine Work?

Fiber laser welding machines work with the simple mechanism by using diodes, channels, and lenses.

In simple words, the laser light illuminated by the diodes is channeled and expanded through the optical fiber cable.

While leaving the optical fiber, the laser light is straightened and paralleled by the lens to remain focused on a target object.

Moreover, the laser light projected in fiber laser welding machines is 200% more efficient than traditional ones.

Also, this technique helps deliver efficient results in thicker objects in comparatively lesser time and with the use of less expensive optical lenses.

By using computers to control the process, you can achieve high-precision cutting of various structural components.  Automating the cutting process through CNC results in a lot of time saving and decreases labor costs.

Handheld Laser welding is a type of welding that uses a laser to melt the surfaces of workpieces and join them together.

Figure 3 Fiber Laser Welding Machine Works

The result is minimal deformation that joins without gaps, but the traditional welding machine has large deformation.

The ratio of depth to width is high. Welding involves high-power devices with a percentage of 5:1, but the balance can be as high as 10:1.

Welding is fast and robust. Weld seams are narrow, eliminating the need for cleaning. The surface is usually in good shape, making the welded line look more beautiful than traditional welding.

Another difference is that handheld Laser welding is non-contact remote welding, but it can only weld thin plates.

The laser process is not enough to penetrate metal thicker than a plate, such as a vehicle chassis, and the frame cannot be welded with laser welding.

5. What are the applications of handheld laser welding machines?

The handheld laser welding machine is mainly used to make significant and medium-sized sheet metal items that are fixed.

This is mainly used for making large workpieces such as cabinets, chassis, doors, and windows made of aluminum or stainless steel, as well as washbasins and other large workpieces

Figure 4. Application of handheld laser welding

4.   What are the Advantages of Fiber Laser Welding Machines?

The advantages of fiber laser welding machines are as follows:

●       High-speed

With high speed in laser welding processes, the machine yields high results at lower investment rates, hence decreasing the cost of the end products.

●       Easy Maintenance

Most industries are converting their operations to fiber laser welding machines due to their non-consumable use of electrodes and five times more production speed than the traditional laser welding machines.

Moreover, fiber welding machines can efficiently deliver more precise and accurate results even at lower heat inputs.

●       Conveniently Automated

The fiber laser welding machines only require access from a single side which means they can produce high strength results with a convenient automated system.

Consequently, it helps in the lowest time required to manufacture per part and less cost per piece.

●       No Electrode Replacement

Furthermore, fiber laser welding machines are considered faster than usual machines because they don’t require electrodes.

To that end, they are beneficial in reducing costs and saving time from electrode maintenance or replacement.

●       Non-Contact Process

The welding process in fiber laser machines is a non-contact process, which means every object has the same efficiency and productivity.

Regardless, whether it’s a first piece or last, they are treated with the same power and force.

●       Compact Size

Fiber laser welding machines are compact, making them suitable for many small and premium production industries.

●       Diverse Application

Fiber laser welding is helpful over a wide range of metals such as stainless steel and titanium, reflective materials such as copper and aluminum. They are also effective over plastic, textiles, and silicone.

5.   Why is Fiber Laser Welding Prefered Over Traditional Welding Methods?

Fiber laser welding is preferred over traditional welding methods due to its vast applications and benefits in various aspects.

Currently, many industries such as GYC Laser are shifting their working techniques and principles to fiber laser welding machines due to their advantages and ease of use. Some of the advantageous points of fiber laser machines are briefly discussed below:

●       Fiber Laser Welding vs Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW)

A gas metal welding is a traditional welding method that utilizes consumable electrodes and produces valuable results on huge and poorly fitted parts.

On the contrary, fiber laser welding doesn’t require the use of consumable electrodes. It is quickly automated, five times faster, and more precise.

●       Fiber Laser Welding vs Gas Tungsten Welding (GTAW)

GTAW is a method of using non-consumable electrodes along with any filler to be used separately.

However, fiber laser welding is ten times faster with lower heat input, quick automation, and greater precision.

●       Fiber Laser Welding vs Plasma Arc Welding (PAW)

PAW is a relatively faster traditional welding technique. It is best for poorly aligned objects; however, it generates a lot of heat for many applications.

On the other hand, fiber lasers are highly precise, quick, and require less heat input with a non-contact process. They don’t need daily maintenance procedures.

Fiber lasers have a higher conversion efficiency, which necessitates the use of a smaller chiller. Nd: YAG lasers, on the other hand, have lower energy efficiencies.

Fiber lasers are also faster and offer better penetration properties making them suitable for handling difficult metals. They also last for a longer time.

The only limitation with fiber lasers is the higher initial cost of acquisition. But over the long haul, you will find that running and maintaining fiber lasers is cheaper.

The suitable blowing of auxiliary gas will do a great job protecting the weld pool and even avoid oxidation.

Figure 4 Fiber Laser Welding Machine Revolutionized Technology

6.   What is the Difference Between Fiber Laser Welding and Gas Metal Arc Welding?

Fiber laser welding and gas metal arc welding both are valuable methods in their respective ways. However, there are some distinguishing factors.

GMAW is a traditional method involving consumable electrodes, while the fiber laser welding process does not use consumable electrodes.

Instead, fiber laser welding can quickly be automated, five times faster, and require fewer edge preparations.

GMAW is a suitable process for big and badly fitted parts. However, fiber laser welding is helpful for all sizes with more accuracy and less heat input.

The initial setup cost for GMAW is higher, while fiber laser welding is a cost-effective and quick yielding technique.

Furthermore, to perform the task in GMAW, the surrounding conditions must be stable, i.e., limiting the process in a confined space.

However, the fiber laser welding process can be carried in lower heat input in moderate conditions.

The GMAW machine consists of several electronic parts, which increases its maintenance cost. On the other hand, fiber laser welding machines can be handled easily.

Figure 5 General Mechanism of GMAW

Figure 6 Fiber Laser Welding Machine General Mechanism

7.   What is the Difference Between Fiber Laser Welding and Gas Tungsten Arc Welding?

The difference between fiber laser welding and gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) is that fiber laser welding is an easy and quick process.

At the same time, GTAW is a complex process and requires a lot of skills and expertise of the operator.

Another difference is that GTAW includes comparatively lower speed and possesses a low deposition rate than other welding processes.

On the contrary, fiber laser welding is ten times faster and doesn’t possess complex deposition rates. Instead, they are efficient in providing more effective results.

GTAW is a non-automated and challenging welding process, while fiber laser welding is an easy automated process.

Due to decreased speed requirements and a non-automated system, the GTAW is an expensive and high-maintenance technique.

Besides, fiber laser welding is relatively cost-friendly and easy maintenance.

Figure 7 Gas Tungsten Arc Welding Process

8.   What is the Difference Between Fiber Laser Welding and Plasma Arc Welding?

The difference between fiber laser welding and plasma arc welding is that the beginning setup for plasma arc is costly.

At the same time, it is comparatively easy to begin the fiber laser welding at a premium level.

The plasma arc welding processes require proper training and complicated specializations, while it is easy to handle fiber laser welding processes.

Moreover, the plasma arc welding equipment requires regular maintenance procedures, which is a little pricey. In contrast, fiber laser welding machine parts are easy to maintain.

Due to the plasma arc welding technique, a greater area is affected by the heat generated, but less heat input is generated during fiber laser welding.

Plasma arc welding is widely used in manufacturing steel tubes, efficient welding of small parts, and building joints.

On the other hand, fiber laser welding is used to join metallic components, certain types of plastic, and medical equipment.

Figure 8 Plasma Arc Welding Process

9.   What is the Difference Between Fiber Laser Welding and Resistance Spot Welding?

The difference between fiber laser welding and resistance spot welding is the fiber laser only requires single-sided access to complete the task.

Moreover, the resistance spot welding is efficient in combining two pieces of materials, while fiber laser welding can bind both minor and extensive materials.

Generally, spot welding is a complicated and manual process requiring constant attention for low to medium operations.

On the other hand, fiber laser welding is an easy automated and non-contact process.

The resistance spot welding is expensive and can be challenging to implement. At the same time, fiber welding is relatively wallet-friendly and easy to implement.

However, fiber laser welding is four times faster, high-quality, and better for repeated use than resistance spot welding.

Fiber laser welding is applicable in the medical equipment industry, joining plastic and complicated metal components.

While resistance spot welding is popularly utilized in automobile industries, manufacturing steel pipes, and aerospace.

Figure 9 Resistance Spot Guide

10.   What is the Difference Between Fiber Laser Welding and Electron Beam Welding?

The difference between fiber laser welding and electron beam welding is electron beaming is carried out in a vacuum chamber area with fewer chances of contamination.

Unlike electron beam, the laser beam in fiber welding doesn’t require passing through a vacuum chamber; therefore, its cycle time is shorter.

Furthermore, the electron beam joins the thick material on the thinner one (usually dissimilar metals). On the contrary, fiber laser welding involves the welding of any two metals.

The electron beam welding process requires high safety precautions as it uses high vacuum pressure, while the fiber laser welding process can be done with standard safety measures.

Typically, the larger jobs are challenging to be done in electron beam welding machines, while in fiber laser welding machines, the process is easily automated.

Electron beam welding is widely used in power generation, aerospace, defense, and automotive industries.

In comparison, fiber laser welding is applicable in the medicine industry, spectroscopy, telecommunication, and so on.

Figure 10 Electron Beam Welding Process

11.   What is the Difference Between YAG Laser Welding and Fiber Laser Welding?

The difference between YAG laser welding and fiber laser welding is that a YAG is a crystal that is utilized for lasing materials while in fiber laser no crystal exists.

YAG lasers are designed to use bulbs to perform the task. Usually, these bulbs have a shorter life span and require constant replacement, which eventually increases the maintenance issues.

Unlike YAG Lasers, fiber laser welding uses diodes to generate a pumping mechanism, making it an accessible maintenance apparatus.

Currently, fiber laser welding is the most advanced and reliable laser technology available. In comparison, the YAG laser is an inefficient and frustrating method.

The YAG laser process generates a large amount of heat that later requires cooling measures, while fiber laser welding doesn’t have such requirements.

YAG laser welding is used in ophthalmology, treating patients with chronic or acute eye diseases and capsular contraction syndrome.

In contrast, fiber laser welding is used in the automotive industry, aerospace, and information technology industries.

Figure 11 YAG Laser Equipment

12.   Is Fiber Laser Welding Strong?

Fiber Laser Welding is a strong and accurate welding method as it can be performed to manufacture minor products, even in millimeters.

Mainly, smaller pulses are generated to weld the product, leading to a solid and in-depth bond with an efficient finishing product.

However, laser welding can penetrate up to 15 millimeters in stainless steel or steel objects.

Furthermore, the fiber laser welding processes can join two materials with greater accuracy, precision, and stronger bonds than the traditional welding methods.

Due to less maintenance, low rate, and high efficiency, many manufacturers such as GYC laser have switched from traditional welding to fiber laser welding techniques.

With the engagement in the laser industry for over eighteen years, GYC laser is dedicated to providing you with solid and efficient products.

Figure 12 Strong Fiber Laser Welding

13.   How Long Does a Fiber Laser Last?

Fiber lasers last for years if the process is done precisely and perfectly. It is built to last for decades if used in favorable conditions.

If the fiber laser is kept under certain conditions with constant maintenance and handling, its lifespan can be over ten years.

However, to take maximum advantage of the fiber laser services, training your staff and maintaining all the safety standards is essential.

Keep the fiber laser welding machine at 20-25 degrees Celcius with moderate humidity in the atmosphere as temperature fluctuation may harm the productivity of the appliance.

Also, it is vital to keep the fiber laser welding machine cleaned, and quality checked regularly as optical parts, and working areas can be contaminated with moisture and dust.

Furthermore, selecting the best fiber laser manufacturer like GYC Laser will enable you to make the best of the machine. We use safe and durable materials for the manufacturing of devices.

Figure 13 Fiber Laser Welding Lasts

15.   What are the Common Problems That Occur in Fiber Laser Welding Machine?

The common problems that occur in fiber laser welding machines are as follows:

1.   No Laser Output

While using the fiber laser machine, sometimes the laser machine indicates that the device is ‘on,’ but there is no laser output, and no operation is done.

Typically, this problem arises when the lens is covered and the power is set at a low level.

However, you can get rid of this issue simply by removing the lens cover and adjusting the power of the welding machine.

2.   Power Indicator Switched Off

Another problem that arises while using the fiber laser machine is power indicator is switched off even though the power port is connected correctly.

It may happen due to internal damage in the port or the fault in the indicator light. To resolve the issue, replace the cable of the machine and change the indicator light.

3.   Laser Marking Light

Sometimes, the laser light is not bright, but the machine output is perfectly fine. In that case, the fault is in the indicator light.

Simply displace the indicator light, and it will be as bright as usual.

4.   No Laser Light

It often happens with the fiber laser welding machine that there is no indicator light and the laser output. However, everything is perfectly fitted.

It is because the signal cable is not attached to the machine. Just reconnect the signal port again, and the device will be as efficient as before.

16.   Can I Get A Customized Fiber Laser Welding Machine For My Company From a Chinese Supplier?

Yes, you can get customized fiber laser welding machines from renowned and efficient Chinese suppliers. They are known for high-quality and cost-effective products.

With eighteen years of experience, GYC Lasers are one of the finest Fiber laser welding machine suppliers in China. They are skilled professionals dedicated to providing manufacturing solutions according to your requirements.

Along with customized laser welding machines, GYC laser manufactures laser cutting machines and provides technical support for your staff members.

Consequently, the significant advantage of our products is they are cost-effective and designed to serve the customers with the latest technology.

14.   How to Maintain a Fiber Laser Welding Machine?

To maintain a fiber laser welding machine, proper check and balance systems must be carried out to ensure that the device works effectively without interruption.

Moreover, if you want your machine to operate continuously, take the following actions:

●       Maintain Favourable Environmental Conditions

Generally, all the machines are functional in normal working conditions. However, if you use them in an abnormal environment, you must pay special attention to the unit.

For instance, if the machine is working in a humid environment and high temperature, it is essential to observe whether or not its cooling system is active.

If the cooling mechanism is not working correctly, then it can cause the malfunctioning of the unit. To that end, power output and light-emitting functions will also be disrupted.

●       Regular Inspection Programs

All the fiber laser welding machines must be habitually inspected after regular intervals. Replace the small parts immediately in case of a defect.

Besides, before initializing the operation, safety check all the components such as optical parts, lenses, and dielectric diaphragms.

It helps in the identification of dust particles and avoids any dysfunction beforehand.

●       Laser Beam Quality

In any fiber laser welding machine, the laser beam plays a vital role in completing the operation.

However, GYC Lasers always reminds their workers to use dimming paper to analyze the efficiency of the laser beam outcoming spot.

If the laser is scattering while coming out of the channel, the optical parts need to be aligned and repaired for better results.

Figure 14 Fiber Laser Welding Machine Maintainence

Figure 15 Customized Fiber Laser Welding Machine

17.   How To Choose The Right Manufacturer Of Fiber Laser Welding Machine From China?

To choose the right fiber laser welding machine manufacturer from China, it is necessary to consider the trusted and experienced supplier.

Due to high-quality durable products, China has conquered the fiber laser welding machine industry. They are keen on providing reliable and durable products at reasonable rates.

For the past eighteen years, GYC Lasers are leading the Chinese manufacturing industry with their high-quality and wallet-friendly machinery.

We supply efficient quality fiber laser welding machines, laser cutting machines, and laser cleaning machines at affordable prices.