8000W Fiber Delivered Direct Diode Lasers
High-powered fiber delivered direct diode lasers find significant utility in hardening and cladding applications:
Hardening Applications: These lasers serve as an effective heat source for hardening metal parts. They are employed to prevent surface wear while preserving the metallurgical properties of the base material. What sets laser hardening apart is its ability to achieve partial hardening. This means that while certain areas are hardened for increased durability, the flexibility of the ferritic structure can be retained in other zones. This level of selective processing is challenging to achieve with traditional methods like induction hardening. Additionally, laser hardening typically causes minimal material warping, reducing the need for additional corrective procedures.
Laser Cladding: Laser cladding is an additive manufacturing process in which material is fused onto a substrate. This technique is commonly used in heavy construction industries for two main purposes:
- Building New Surfaces: Laser cladding can be used to create entirely new surfaces on components, enhancing their functionality or durability.
- Surface Repair: It is also used to repair damaged surfaces that have worn down due to repeated use.
During the laser cladding process, a laser beam generates a molten pool on the workpiece's surface. Simultaneously, coating material, also melted by the laser, is added to this molten pool. The result is a metallurgically bonded layer that offers superior toughness compared to coatings produced through thermal spraying. Laser cladding is considered a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative to processes like hard chromium plating, making it a preferred choice in various industries.