Illinois Tool Works Inc.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR HYBRID LASER AND ARC WELDING ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

Abstract:

Disclosed is a hybrid additive manufacturing system that includes a laser system and an additive manufacturing tool, such as an arc welding type torch. The tool is configured to receive a metallic electrode wire, which is heated by a power supply to create droplets for deposition to create the part by building up successive layers of metal. The additive manufacturing system operates through coordination of the laser system to generate a laser beam, which is applied to a weld bead, and an arc welding process, which provides material for the part. A threshold value of laser intensity and/or power can be applied to the weld puddle to stabilize the arc. Through the laser beam, an arc cone position can be manipulated such that the energy into the molten pool can be redistributed.