Orbital Hybrid Laser-arc Welding Using a High-power Fibre Laser for Pipeline Construction

Abstract

Recently developed fibre lasers provide multi-kilowatt beam power with high quality at impressive energy efficiency. Combined with gas metal arc welding (GMAW) equipment these lasers can be used in a hybrid process to weld thick-walled constructions single-pass, that are currently welded using multi-pass techniques. The main benefits are a reduction of heat induced distortions, due to the low heat input, as well as savings in filler material and process time. Probable applications can be found in power generation, ship building and pipeline constructions. An orbital (girth) laser-hybrid process using a 20 kW fibre laser and a GMAW torch is currently examined at the BAM, Berlin. The aim of this research is to obtain a stable and crack free girth welding process and to demonstrate its application in pipeline construction. The experiments are carried out on 16 mm thick plates as well pipe rings with 36" (914 mm) pipe diameter of X65. Particular welding parameters, such as welding speed, GMAW power, arc length are varied and their influence on the appearance of the weld in the different welding positions is analyzed. Even though issues remain that demand further research it could already be shown that the rings can be welded using a girth hybrid process that is divided into two half girth processes in downward direction.