Guild International launched new laser welding technology to make coil end welding on strip as thin as .003” possible. Current technologies employing TIG welders allow for welding strips no thinner than .008” and requires start and stop tabs. Guild’s new machine, named the LHMA Laser Welder, creates complete edge-to-edge welds without the need for start and stop tabs, on strip as thin as .003”.
The machine utilises a fibre laser to deliver the necessary energy for welding via a fibre optic cable connected to a focusing head. The focusing head concentrates the energy to a very fine spot to achieve superior weld results on steel, stainless steel, cooper and brass alloys and aluminium. The machine includes a camera and large HMI touchscreen allowing the operator to view the strip fit-up prior to welding. In just 2 minutes, the process of shearing, aligning, and welding the two coil ends is complete. Weld schedules can be stored for quick retrieval and the parameters are easily set with the HMI touchscreen. An interlocked safety enclosure provides the required safety for the operator.