Investigation on porosity content in 2024 aluminum alloy welding by Yb:YAG disk laser

Aluminum alloy 2024 is extensively used in automotive and aerospace industries, but its application is limited due to the susceptibility to generate porosity during the welding process. Nevertheless, benefits from laser welding are clearly demonstrated. In addition, the use of a disk laser allows to obtain significant reduction in focus diameter and increased beam quality compared to traditional rod or slab lasers. The aim of the work is to discuss porosity formation as influenced by the thermal input provided, so bead-on-plate specimens in different conditions have been prepared. Porosity content is examined in relation to the fused zone extent and discussed considering interaction between laser and material. Higher thermal inputs are beneficial in full penetrative welds.