Influence of laser on the droplet behavior in short-circuiting, globular, and spray modes of hybrid fiber laser-MIG welding

• Published in: Optics and laser technology 2016-09, Vol.83, p.108-118
• Main Authors: Cai, Chuang, Feng, Jiecai, Li, Liqun, Chen, Yanbin
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Arc welding; Current wave; Drag force; Droplet behavior; Droplets; Electromagnetic forces; Hybrid fiber laser-MIG welding; Laser beam welding; Sprayers; Sprays; Transfer mode; Welding
• ISSN: 0030-3992; 1879-2545
• DOI: 10.1016/j.optlastec.2016.03.029

The effects of laser on the droplet behavior in short-circuiting, globular, and spray modes of hybrid fiber laser-MIG welding were studied. Transfer sequence of a droplet, welding current wave and morphology of plasma in the three modes of arc welding and hybrid welding were comparatively investigated. Compared with arc welding, the transfer frequency and landing location of droplet in the three modes of hybrid welding changed. In short-circuiting and globular modes, the droplet transfer was promoted by the laser, while the droplet transfer was hindered by the laser in spray mode. The magnitudes and directions of electromagnetic force and plasma drag force acting on the droplet were the keys to affect the droplet behavior. The magnitudes and directions of electromagnetic force and plasma drag force were converted due to the variation of the current distribution into the droplet, which were caused by the laser induced plasma with low ionization potential. •The effects of fiber laser on droplet behavior of hybrid welding were clarified.•The magnitude and direction of forces were the keys to affect droplet behavior.•In short-circuiting and globular modes, the laser promoted the droplet transfer.•In spray mode, the droplet transfer was hindered by the laser.