Influences of laser in low power YAG laser-MAG hybrid welding process

The influences of laser defocusing amount△z,laser power P,space distance D_(LA)between laser and arc on weld penetration,arc modality and stability are investigated in low power YAG laser and metal active gas(laser-MAG)hybrid welding process.The experimental results indicate that the effects of laser- induced attraction and contraction of MAG arc are emerged in hybrid welding process,which result in the augmentation of hybrid welding energy.When D_(LA)=-0.5-2 mm,△z=-2-2 mm and P≥73 W,the synergic efficiency between laser and MAG arc is obvious,the cross section at the root of hybrid arc is contracted and the hybrid weld penetration is increased.The maximal ratio of hybrid/MAG weld penetration is 1.5 and the lowest YAG laser power that augments MAG arc is 73 W.The input of YAG laser makes the stabilities of arc ignition and combustion prominent in hybrid welding process.