Automated pulsed laser system increases fabricator business

RAYMAX has supplied Ebtech Industries with a pulsed laser system, allowing for a hi-tech welding process which fits between current electron beam welding and TIG/MIG welding.

The GSI JK450HP Nd:YAG Pulsed Laser is said to have increased the laser processing capability and therefore sales and jobs that can be taken on by the client company.

Ebtech Industries provides electron beam welding and laser marking services to the automotive, aviation, manufacturing and general engineering industries. 

However, their electron beam welding process was not suited for high volume components, requiring a long setup time and vacuum for optimum performance. It also produced low quality small/thin components.

After a three-year search, and detailed examination of the laser power, type, and materials handling methods required, the GSI JK series of lasers were chosen.

The pulsed laser system has a peak pulse power of 10kW and a frequency of 1000hz. It can weld, drill and cut carbon steel, stainless steel, nickel alloys, aluminium, titanium and other metals. The laser is delivered via a fibre optic cable to welding or cutting optics which focus the laser.

Due to the safety requirements of the laser system, the entire work area needed to be completely enclosed with double interlocks. Robot Automation supplied a 20kg payload Motoman robot and cell as the integration solution.

The reach of the robot allows components less than a cubic metre in mass to be cut or welded, and a rotary chuck allows circumferential processes.

According to the clients, the installation has resulted in a steady increase in interest and jobs for the machine. The increase in laser welding applications knowledge and capability has also resulted in more work for the company.