Publications Details

Characterization of focusing lenses used for CO{sub 2} laser beam welding

Brandon, E.D.

Division 2473 has characterized the performance of three types of focusing lenses used for CO{sub 2} laser beam welding. Specifically, we evaluated the plano-convex, positive meniscus, and aspheric lenses with focal lengths ranging from 1.25 to 5.0 inches. The measured responses were the resultant weld depth and width of bead-on-plate welds made using a range of focus positions. The welding parameters were 185 to 700 watts continuous wave beam power and 30 inches per minute travel speed. The results of this study quantified the weld profile dimensions as a function of lens type and focal length, beam power, depth of focus, and verified the coincidence of maximum weld depth and width.