As higher strength and more corrosion resistant steels are coming into use, it is important that the welding processes are ready to meet the productivity and quality demands that are required by the industry. Laser-hybrid welding is a relatively new process that fulfils both productivity and quality demands. The welding of supermartensitic steels allows considerable freedom when choosing consumables. Where it is demanded, matching consumables are preferred in order to meet strength levels, but when other criteria apply, such as fatigue properties, alternative consumables like duplex, austenitic or Ni-base can be chosen. The process proved capable of meeting the requirements of fatigue, reduced deformation and increased welding speed, meaning that the cycle time can be significantly reduced. A normal welding speed with robotised MIG welding is in the area of 12-15 mm/sec, whereas with the laser-hybrid process operating within the same application the welding speed increases to 55-60 mm/s. The laser-hybrid process has a future for plate thicknesses ranging from 3 mm up to 20 mm. This is the range where the process will lower the cost through enhanced welding speeds, reduced deformation and less post weld labour, reduced joint volumes and increased weld quality.
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