The realization of several laser processes with just one setup enables completely new processing options. With the PMLT multi-process strategy, different metals can be connected, separated, marked, cleaned and removed with ultrafast laser processes.
The video shows an exemplary application in which another sheet with higher tensile strength is welded onto a base sheet. Rivet holes are cut in the ring-shaped weld seams. Subsequently, fine structures are only cut into the upper material. The geometry, which is optimized for tensile forces, reinforces the force introduction point directly at the hole and the connection between the holes.
By combining the different laser processes in one setup, layer composites with free design can be created. Great advantages over 3D printing processes are the inexpensive materials (commercially available sheets), the properties of which are retained, and the significantly shorter process times.
Compared to conventional processing of the individual process steps at several stations or in several machines, the advantages lie in the lower acquisition costs (only one setup) and the precise processing without repositioning (in one setup).