This paper deals with the laser welding of advanced high strength steels (AHSS) that have promising properties for automotive applications. Experimental investigation into the CO2 laser welding of the dissimilar steel grades PM/CP800 and PM/CP1000 is reported. The objective of this study is the examination of the joining feasibility of these materials for different process parameters. Moreover, the parameters that lead to the optimum geometrical characteristics of the weld have been defined. Finally, the paper demonstrates the way that a laser machine, mostly dedicated to cutting operations, can be modified so as to perform welding.
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