Welding of aluminium alloys by CO2 and ND:Yag high power lasers

The possibility of indroducing laser welding technology of aluminum alloys in structural applications related to naval and aeronautical engineering is discussed. In order to increase the quality of the welded joint, suitable filler metal shielding gas optimization is considered. The use of an optical equipment for the transverse separation of the beam spot (twin spot) is discussed. The results obtained suggest the use of laser welding technique as a suitable technology for joining aluminum alloys and as an alternative to the industrial use of arc welding technologies in the naval and aeronautical industry.