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Laser Cladding Machines
Frequently Asked Questions
Laser cladding is also known as laser metal deposition. It is a technique for depositing one material to the surface of another, normally metals. Laser cladding process uses a high-power laser as the source of heat for fusing the metals. As such, this process involves melting the metals.
Laser cladding is a type of additive manufacturing or 3D laser printing process. It involves feeding of a stream of metallic powder or wire into a melt pool that is generated by a laser beam as it scans across the target surface, depositing a coating of the chosen material.
Broadly speaking, laser cladding is a laser welding process as it involves using a laser for melting a metal to fuse with another metal. The main distinction is that laser cladding is a highly specialized process used for applying thin layers of coatings, while laser welding in general can be used for welding large parts over small or large surface area or volume.
Technically, laser cladding can be used for 3D laser printing at a small scale. However, the goal of using laser cladding machines in industrial applications is primarily the application of think metallic layers on parts of equipment for protecting parts from corrosion, impact, or wear from repetitive use.
Generally, yes, laser cladding machines use high-power infrared fiber, DPSS, diode, or CO2 lasers. The power levels used in these processes may vary significantly. Cladding being similar to welding relies on high-power lasers for melting the metal wire or powder.
Yes, more often than not laser cladding machines are provided by manufacturers as turnkey solutions with laser beam position and angle control, software and part holding.
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