Effect of CO2 laser irradiation on arc welding

Combination welding was performed using a CO2 laser and MIG are under various conditions to investigate the effectiveness of combining these two welding methods for high speed welding of thick plates. The penetration depth of combination welding was affected by the assist gas flow rate similar to when laser welding is performed at a low welding speed. Penetration was governed by the laser, while the bead width was governed by the are. Laser-are combination welding enabled welding elf 12mm thick mild steel welding speed of 2000 mm/min with proper selection of the assist gas flow rate and gap.