Hybrid Laser Welding: a Review

Nowadays, hybrid welding technology can be defined as the combination of a laser heat source with a secondary welding source, typically an electric arc. The hybrid welding processes have some advantages over arc welding and laser welding like high welding speeds, reduction of edge preparation accuracy, control of metallurgical variables through the addition of filler wire and higher electrical efficiency. Nevertheless a large number of process parameters needs to be checked to obtain these good results. Moreover the numerous process parameters governing the hybrid weld process are modified with the change of coupling of welding sources and with new materials to be welded. In this work an overview of the state of the art about process development, experimental analysis and related industrial applications of hybrid laser welding is given. This paper explains the basics of the process and traces the most relevant worldwide research. The authors wish to stimulate the onset of further research on hybrid laser welding