A partnership with Actom’s Metalplus created the platform for demonstrating the use of fibre laser-welding technology in component repair, where conventional welding methods are not suitable for the repair process.

The partnership combines the CSIR’s expertise in laser cladding and hardening as part of its laser-based manufacturing capability, with the machining and grinding capability resident in Metalplus.

Laser welding technology is commonly used to repair components that have suffered surface damage or wear. The technology can also be used to improve the performance of components by changing their surface properties. The low heat input and low dilution of the laser-based process also makes it suitable for performing small-scale repairs and depositing fine layers of metal as weld overlays, which is beyond the scope of traditional welding systems.