The goal of this project was to develop a laser system that would combine some of the favorable characteristics of the two most commonly used lasers for seam welding of heat sensitive assemblies. A multirod (3) symmetrical resonator CW Nd:YAG laser has been developed that is rated at 1800 watts output power. By utilizing the symmetrical resonator design, beam characteristics are not significantly compromised compared to that of single rod systems. The laser is capable of producing acceptable welds in aluminum and copper alloys and also has sufficient power to produce welds in steels and nickel base alloys at high welding speeds.
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© 1991 Laser Institute of America.
1991
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