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  • Advancing Additive Manufacturing: DED Wire Laser Fabrication of Magnesium AZ-31 Alloy

    Additive manufacturing continues to redefine the boundaries of modern engineering, enabling the creation of intricate geometries and customized components with unmatched precision. A recent trial conducted by the Welding and Laser Group at the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, one of the first research groups worldwide to utilize dynamic beam laser technology for Directed Energy Deposition (DED) with wire, has demonstrated the immense potential of this approach. The trial showcased the fabrication of a complex 8 cm tall tube using magnesium AZ-31 alloy, a material known for its lightweight properties and excellent strength-to-weight ratio. Leveraging dynamic beam shaping technology, the team produced a component with a refined and homogeneous dendritic structure—a feat that exemplifies the precision and versatility of this advanced laser technology. In just a short time, the component was fabricated with consistent quality throughout its structure, highlighting dynamic beam shaping's ability to optimize energy distribution, reduce defects, and enhance material properties. Building stages of the 8cm Az-31 structure Images of the structure before and after post-processing Microstructure analysis The Role of the Welding and Laser Group at the Technion This remarkable trial was conducted by the Welding and Laser Group at the Technion, a leading research group specializing in advanced welding, laser processing, and additive manufacturing technologies. Their expertise in integrating innovative techniques with cutting-edge materials positions them at the forefront of research in these fields. The group focuses on solving real-world challenges across various industries, leveraging interdisciplinary approaches to develop groundbreaking solutions in manufacturing. To learn more about their work and projects, visit their official page: Welding and Laser Group at the Technion. Unlocking New Possibilities for DED Wire Processes Dynamic beam shaping technology plays a pivotal role in unlocking the potential of magnesium alloys like AZ-31. Unlike static beams, dynamic beam shaping allows real-time modulation of the laser’s properties to suit the material's specific needs. This approach minimizes common issues such as porosity and cracking, which are prevalent in traditional manufacturing processes, and results in superior mechanical and structural properties. This effort by the Technion demonstrates the potential for expanding DED wire processes. The team plans to further explore how different power distributions enabled by dynamic beam shaping can lead to additional breakthroughs in additive manufacturing. Future investigations aim to develop new applications across industries. Contact the Technion Welding and Laser Group To learn more about this groundbreaking research or explore potential collaborations, contact the Welding and Laser Group at the Technion via their official website or reach out directly to their team of experts. The group welcomes inquiries about their work and the exciting future of dynamic beam shaping technology in manufacturing. Laser Cell at Technion and beam shape used for the AZ-31 structure

  • Civan Lasers Launches Two Demonstration Labs in the USA

    Civan Lasers proudly announces the opening of two advanced demonstration labs in the United States, strategically located at AMET in Rexburg, Idaho, and Photon Automation in Detroit, Michigan. These new facilities represent a major step forward in providing North American customers with greater accessibility to Civan’s innovative Dynamic Beam Laser technology. At both locations, clients can experience the transformative capabilities of Dynamic Beam Lasers, designed to redefine laser welding processes. These labs offer hands-on demonstrations and tailored process development, empowering customers to explore the full potential of this groundbreaking technology. Strengthening Civan’s Presence in North America The demonstration labs are integral to Civan Lasers' go-to-market strategy for the North American market. With a robust service and sales infrastructure already in place, the labs mark the final phase of establishing local operations. This expansion enables Civan to offer comprehensive solutions and support, ensuring that customers can seamlessly integrate Dynamic Beam Lasers into their operations. The AMET Partnership in Rexburg, Idaho Civan’s partnership with AMET, a renowned expert in welding machinery, allows the Rexburg facility to offer customers turnkey welding solutions powered by Dynamic Beam Lasers. Visitors to this location can develop customized welding processes and explore how this technology can address their specific challenges. Demo Lab at AMET Photon Automation in Detroit, Michigan In Detroit, Photon Automation—a leader in laser welding solutions with deep expertise in the automotive and electrification - hosts Civan’s second demonstration lab. This facility is strategically positioned to serve Michigan’s vast industrial base, offering customers the opportunity to explore advanced laser applications with the support of Photon Automation’s extensive experience and resources. Demo lab at Photon Automation Revolutionizing Welding with Dynamic Beam Lasers Civan’s Dynamic Beam Laser technology provides unmatched control over beam shaping, enabling innovative solutions for challenging materials and thick sections. Applications include welding thick copper components, thick stainless steel welds, and large wind tower sections—areas where traditional welding methods are slow and complex. Comprehensive Turnkey Solutions These demonstration labs go beyond showcasing cutting-edge laser technology. Through collaborations with AMET and Photon Automation, customers gain access to a seamless pathway from process development to full-scale production. The turnkey systems offered at both locations ensure that clients can confidently transition their projects from concept to completion. Civan Lasers’ new demonstration labs underscore the company’s commitment to advancing laser innovation and delivering transformative solutions to the North American market.

  • Fraunhofer IOSB Leads Innovation With 120 kW Dynamic Beam Laser Purchase

    Fraunhofer IOSB Acquires 120 kW Dynamic Beam Laser — One of the Most Advanced Lasers in the World Due to Its High Beam Quality — for Research. Civan Lasers is thrilled to announce it has received a purchase order for a groundbreaking 120 kW single-mode dynamic beam laser from Fraunhofer IOSB. This acquisition marks a significant milestone, as the laser is the highest-power single-mode laser currently available on the market. The 120 kW laser was first delivered in 2021 and won the 2022 Laser World of Photonics Innovation Award. 120kW Dynamic Beam Laser The uniqueness of this laser lies not only in its power level but also in its high beam quality and dynamic beam features. These capabilities allow users to tailor the beam profile and power distribution during operation, providing unmatched flexibility and precision in various applications. Designed for industrial use, the laser is compact, with dimensions of just 2 x 2 x 1 m, making it easy to transport and easy to install in different sites with a variety of machine configurations and interfaces. This versatility ensures it can be effectively utilized for a wide range of applications. Since its first deployment in 2021, the laser has been used in welding and other industrial processes. Civan has deployed many high-power lasers for different applications, with power levels ranging from 14 kW to 120 kW. This purchase will enable Fraunhofer IOSB to lead in the research of high-power lasers, opening up new opportunities for exploring innovative applications. The advanced features of this laser, including its high beam quality and dynamic beam shaping capabilities, will provide unparalleled flexibility and precision in research efforts.

  • Civan Lasers Celebrates Industry Awards for Breakthrough High Power Laser Technology

    Civan Lasers, a global innovator in high-power laser technology, proudly announces its receipt of prestigious award. The company was recognized with the William M. Steen Award for Innovation in Laser Technology at the International Congress on Applications of Lasers & Electro-Optics (ICALEO) and celebrated Fincantieri’s (leading shipyard) reception of the SMAU Innovation Award in Milan, awarded for developing a breakthrough welding process using Civan’s laser technology. The SMAU Innovation Award is especially meaningful, as it acknowledges Civan’s technology’s real-world impact in welding applications. This award, presented to Fincantieri for their pioneering work in developing a pure laser welding process for ship panels, highlights the industry’s new standard enabled by Civan’s DBL technology. SMAU innovation award ceremony Civan’s DBL has enabled Fincantieri and Castellini to achieve certified welds on ship panels ranging from 5mm to 25mm in thickness through an innovative pure laser welding process. The DBL’s high-power, dynamic beam-shaping capabilities allow operators to tailor the beam to achieve high-quality welds even in thick sections, ensuring deep penetration, reduced thermal distortion, and enhanced material integrity. This efficiency not only improves weld consistency but also significantly reduces costs by saving on consumables and lowering power consumption. Additionally, the ability to weld faster and handle thicker materials greatly increases production efficiency. By adopting a pure laser-based welding process using Civan’s DBL technology, Fincantieri has achieved transformative results that point to the potential for future industrialization and widespread adoption. Compared to traditional methods, this process offers substantial improvements in efficiency, energy savings, and reduced consumable usage. Initial outcomes reveal a 40% increase in welding speed and a doubling of weldable thickness. Additionally, the DBL process has led to a 60% reduction in energy consumption and up to a 90% decrease in filler material usage, making it a highly cost-effective and eco-friendly solution for demanding industrial applications. The William M. Steen Award for Innovation in Laser Technology celebrates Civan’s third-generation 120kW Dynamic Beam Laser (DBL), marking a breakthrough in laser technology tailored for industrial readiness. This latest generation incorporates transformative advancements not only in power but also in reliability, compactness, and durability—key improvements for demanding industrial environments. “We are honored to receive the William M. Steen Award and to see our technology drive success for customers like Fincantieri, as celebrated by the SMAU Innovation Award,” said Dr. Eyal Shekel, CEO of Civan Lasers. “Our collaboration with Fincantieri and Castellini demonstrates how Civan’s Dynamic Beam Laser exceeds industry demands, delivering faster, stronger, and more sustainable solutions for sectors where efficiency and resilience are critical.” With its high power and adaptive beam-shaping capabilities, Civan’s DBL technology reflects the company’s commitment to advancing materials processing. Both the SMAU and William M. Steen Awards recognize Civan’s success in enabling industries to achieve superior production quality and sustainability.

  • STUDY BY FINCANTIERI UNVEILS 40% FASTER WELDING AND 60% ENERGY SAVINGS

    Welding is a fundamental process in manufacturing across a wide range of industries, serving as a key element in production. For instance, ships often require 300 to 600 kilometers of weld seams to ensure structural integrity. During World War II, the U.S. drastically accelerated ship production by adopting submerged arc welding, which became a pivotal technology for meeting urgent construction demands. As industries continue to advance, innovations in welding technology hold the potential to dramatically increase efficiency. Enhancing welding methods by a factor of 10 or 20 could transform sectors like shipbuilding, renewable energy, and construction by lowering costs and reducing production time. Since the introduction of submerged arc welding, one of the most important advancements has been the development of hybrid welding processes that combine laser technology with Metal Inert Gas/Metal Active Gas (MIG/MAG) welding. This hybrid process offers the ability to achieve relatively large penetration depths, typically around 15 mm, which is sufficient for many industrial applications. By merging the precision of laser technology with the robustness of MIG/MAG welding, the hybrid process provides an improvement in speed and penetration over traditional methods, though it still faces limitations when working with even thicker materials or when further energy efficiency is required. Illustration of welding ship panels with Dynamic Beam Laser However, despite these advancements, the hybrid process still shares several similarities with traditional arc welding methods, bringing with it some of the same challenges: 1. High Heat Input: Similar to arc welding, hybrid welding generates a high heat input, which can lead to material distortion and the formation of a large Heat-Affected Zone (HAZ). This distortion poses challenges in maintaining proper part alignment and need for large fixturing, requiring additional effort and control measures to mitigate these issues during production. 2. Consumable-Based Process: The hybrid process relies heavily on consumables such as filler materials and protective gases, which add significant cost to the operation. This also contributes to a larger carbon footprint, as the consumption of these materials results in higher CO2 emissions. 3. Complex Joint Preparation (Beveling): Similar to arc welding, the hybrid method often requires beveling, which involves additional material preparation to ensure proper joint alignment. This beveling process is more complex, time-consuming, and costly, further slowing down production and increasing overall expenses. These challenges make it clear that while hybrid welding offers improvements in certain areas, it still retains many of the drawbacks of traditional welding techniques. Autogenous weld of 15mm mild steel with minimal distortion Dynamic Beam Lasers: A Breakthrough for Thick Section Welding Dynamic Beam Lasers (DBL) offer a transformative solution to these challenges. Unlike traditional lasers, which produce a static beam, DBLs can dynamically adjust the beam's shape, intensity, and size in real-time. This flexibility makes them highly effective for welding thick sections of metal, providing increased precision, control, and efficiency. Key Advantages of Dynamic Beam Lasers The introduction of DBL technology has the potential to revolutionize thick section welding, offering significant improvements in speed, energy efficiency, and material usage: -Increased Welding Speed: DBLs enhance welding speed by achieving greater penetration depth, eliminating the need for multi-layer welding. This reduces production times and accelerates project completion. - Reduced Energy Consumption: DBL technology can decrease energy use by using less passes to weld the same part, making the process more cost-effective and environmentally sustainable. -Lower Gas and Filler Material Requirements: The use of protective gas is significantly reduced, and the laser process eliminates the need for filler material altogether, leading to substantial cost savings and a reduced carbon footprint. Real-World Application: One of the most exciting real-world applications of Dynamic Beam Laser technology is in the shipbuilding industry. Fincantieri S.p.A., a leader in high-value ship construction, is collaborating with Civan Lasers to test DBL for welding thick sections of steel. Traditionally, Fincantieri used a combination of Hybrid Laser and MIG/MAG processes for welding, but these methods have limitations in terms of speed, energy consumption, and the maximum thickness they can weld. Through their open innovation approach, Fincantieri is testing DBL to overcome these challenges. The early results of this collaboration have been promising: -40% Increase in Welding Speed: The introduction of DBL has accelerated the welding process, making production more efficient. -Ability to Weld Thicker Sections: DBLs can handle materials that are over twice as thick as those welded by traditional methods, expanding the possibilities for ship design and construction. - 60% Energy Reduction: With less energy required, the process is not only more cost-effective but also aligns with the industry’s sustainability goals. - 90% Reduction in Filler Material Use: The significant drop in filler material consumption drastically reduces costs, streamlining production. - Minimized Use of Protective Gases: Protective gases, which are typically used in large quantities, are no longer a major cost factor. This collaboration between Fincantieri, Civan, and Castellini exemplifies how DBL technology can be successfully integrated into existing production processes to address traditional limitations, setting a new standard for welding thick sections. Fincantieri S.p.A results with Dynamic Beam Laser The Future of Thick Section Welding with Dynamic Beam Lasers Dynamic Beam Laser technology is on the cusp of transforming the way thick section welding is done across multiple industries. The advantages—ranging from increased speed and reduced costs to energy efficiency and expanded material capabilities—are game-changing. By adopting DBL technology, industries can not only reduce production times and operational costs but also significantly enhance the quality and strength of the welded structures. As seen in Fincantieri's collaboration, the future of welding thick sections lies in leveraging the precision, flexibility, and efficiency of DBLs to meet the evolving demands of modern manufacturing. With the potential to scale production by a factor of 10 or 20, Dynamic Beam Lasers could revolutionize the way industries approach welding, creating more sustainable, cost-effective, and efficient processes across the board. DBL can achieve welds of up to 70mm thick

  • The Evolution of Civan’s 120kW Laser: A Journey from Gen I to Gen III

    Civan Lasers has an history of pushing the boundaries of laser technology. From the early days of our 1kW systems to the state-of-the-art 120kW Gen III lasers, our journey has been marked by innovation, continuous improvement, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Let's take a closer look at how our laser systems have evolved over the years. Civan Lasers company history Generation I: The Beginning of a New Era Our journey began with the introduction of the Gen I lasers. These early systems, while revolutionary at the time, had their share of challenges: Power Output: Starting with 1kW in 2012, we quickly advanced to 5kW in 2016 and 14kW by 2018. Dynamic Beam Performance: Although groundbreaking, the initial dynamic beam performance was limited. Reliability: High maintenance needs were a common issue, but these early systems laid the groundwork for future innovations. Despite these challenges, Gen I lasers were a crucial step in our journey, providing valuable insights and establishing our reputation in the laser industry. Generation II: Scaling New Heights The introduction of the Gen II lasers in 2021 marked a significant leap forward. With these systems, we addressed many of the issues faced by their predecessors: Higher Power: The Gen II lasers reached an impressive 100kW, a significant increase from the Gen I systems. Improved Reliability: Through rigorous testing and feedback from top research institutes, we managed to reduce system bugs and enhance overall reliability. Enhanced Dynamic Beam Performance: The dynamic beam performance saw marked improvements, making these lasers more versatile and efficient. The Gen II lasers proved their mettle in various industrial applications, from welding thick sections to remote cutting. They were the backbone of many successful projects, providing the robustness and power required for demanding tasks. Generation III: Setting New Standards Building on the success and lessons learned from Gen I and Gen II, our Generation III lasers represent a new standard in laser technology: Compact Design: One of the most notable advancements is the significant reduction in size and weight. The new power supplies and optical head designs have made the Gen III lasers far more compact and easier to integrate into various applications. Higher Power Output: The 120kW Gen III lasers deliver unparalleled power, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in laser technology. Enhanced Reliability: Through extensive software and hardware improvements, we’ve achieved unprecedented reliability. A nine-month project tracking over 20 laser systems resulted in an 80% reduction in laser faults. Comparison between 100kW class lasers according to generation Real-World Impact and Case Studies The Gen III lasers have already proven their worth in various high-stakes applications: Ship Panel Welding: Welding times have been reduced by up to 50 times compared to traditional methods. Wind Tower Welding: Similarly, welding times for wind towers are up to 20 times faster, showcasing the efficiency and power of the Gen III systems. Remote Cutting: We’ve demonstrated the ability to cut 100mm mild steel from a distance of 25 meters, highlighting the precision and power of our lasers.

  • Introducing Civan's Welding Head for Dynamic Beam Lasers

    Civan Lasers is proud to introduce its new welding head, designed exclusively for our Dynamic Beam Laser. This new product offers a standard solution for welding applications, eliminating the need for additional complex optic delivery systems. Why Choose New Welding Head? The primary reason for developing this welding head is to provide a standardized, hassle-free solution specifically for Civan's Dynamic Beam Laser. By offering a robust and versatile design, it simplifies the process, ensuring that users do not need to invest in or manage complex optical delivery setups. This welding head is engineered to meet the high demands of manufacturing environment. Civan's New Welding Head Welding head installed in Civan's applications lab, Hannover, Germany Key Features of Civan's Welding Head Optics Protection: Our welding head ensures the protection of optics used in welding applications. Its sealed design prevents damage from spatter and fumes, extending the lifespan of the optics and maintaining consistent performance. Easy Installation: The welding head is engineered for simplicity, enabling quick and straightforward installation of the Dynamic Beam Laser. This design minimizes the need for optical alignment. Ease of change Focusing Lens: The welding head offers flexibility in focal length, allowing for switching between different focusing lenses to change focal distance and beam diameters with the same lasers. Compact and Robust Design: With dimensions of 736x445x344mm and a weight of up to 80Kg (including the galvo scanner), the welding head is both compact and robust. It integrates seamlessly into existing setups without requiring significant modifications. Integrated Coaxial Camera: The built-in coaxial camera enhances monitoring and control, allowing operators to oversee the process in real-time and make necessary adjustments promptly. Optional Sensor Ports: The welding head can come with optional ports equipped with a beam splitter up to custom demand, facilitating the integration of additional sensors. This feature enhances its versatility and functionality, accommodating a wide range of applications. Easy Maintenance: The design includes an easily replaceable protective window, ensuring minimal maintenance efforts and reducing operational interruptions. Thermal Shift Correction: Real time Active correction of thermal lensing in optics maintains precision and accuracy, even during prolonged use, ensuring consistent quality of the welds or AM outputs. Optical head installed on a robot at Aalborg University Collaboration with SmartMove Civan Lasers and SmartMove have an ongoing collaboration for integrating dynamic beam lasers with their galvo scanner. SmartMove is able to offer the SH30G-ME-LD scanner that can withstand up to 14kW! In addition, they provide a state-of-the-art controller with high accuracy. This collaboration between the companies offers unique features that don't exist in any other solution. The first is the beam orientation capability, and the second is the autofocus correction, which eliminates the need for an F-theta lens and mechanical movement of the focusing lens. The integration of SmartMove technology enhances the functionality and efficiency of Civan's welding head, offering an invaluable tool for manufacturing processes. Civan Lasers and SmartMove completed testing and training of the latest scanner at Civan Lasers Hannover lab

  • Civan Lasers Demonstrates Remote Cutting of 100mm Steel for Nuclear Plant Decommissioning

    Jerusalem, July 11th, 2024 – Civan Lasers, a leading innovator in laser technology, proudly announces the successful demonstration of remote cutting of 100mm thick steel, a significant advancement for the decommissioning of nuclear plants. The trial utilized a 120kW Dynamic Beam Laser and showcased cutting-edge capabilities in a controlled, safe environment. The demonstration featured a remote cutting operation from a distance of 10 meters, with the laser beam propagating through a pipe in free space for safety reasons. Inside a closed chamber, the beam was redirected using a mirror to cut through the 100mm steel part. This trial highlighted the laser’s ability to cut thick sections from considerable distances, demonstrating potential for operations from tens of meters away, thanks to its exceptional beam quality. Illustration of Civan Lasers' remote cutting demonstration setup, utilizing a 120kW Dynamic Beam Laser. The laser beam was safely propagated through a hose and redirected with a mirror inside a closed chamber to cut a 100mm thick steel section from a di Civan Lasers' Dynamic Beam Laser technology boasts several unique features that make it ideal for nuclear plant decommissioning: Scalable Power Levels: Maintains high beam quality even at increased power. Large Depth of Focus: Combined with focus steering, can reach over 100mm, providing precise cutting capabilities. Remote Operation Capability: Enables cutting from a safe distance, reducing the risk of contamination and exposure. A Civan Lasers team member proudly displays a 100mm thick steel section cut using the 120kW Dynamic Beam Laser, showcasing the advanced capabilities of their cutting-edge laser technology. "We are excited about the implications of this successful demonstration for the nuclear decommissioning industry," said Ami Spira, VP Marketing at Civan Lasers. "Our Dynamic Beam Laser offers a unique combination of power, precision, and safety, making it an ideal solution for safely dismantling contaminated structures from a distance." The ability to perform remote cutting of thick sections with such precision and efficiency marks a significant step forward in the field of nuclear decommissioning. Civan Lasers continues to push the boundaries of laser technology, offering innovative solutions to complex industrial challenges. Sample of a 100mm thick steel section cut using Civan Lasers' 120kW Dynamic Beam Laser during a remote cutting demonstration for nuclear plant decommissioning.

  • Revolutionizing Thick Section Welding with Dynamic Beam Lasers

    The challenges of welding thick materials have long dictated the pace and approach of industrial manufacturing processes. Traditional methods, reliant on multi-pass welds and beveling, can be exhausting and inefficient. The depth achievable in one pass typically ranges up to 15-20mm, necessitating multiple passes—up to 30 times for a 50mm section—making the process notably time-consuming and material-intensive. In the past year, significant progress have been made by Civan Lasers, who have dedicated their efforts to develop and refine welding processes for thick materials using Dynamic Beam Lasers (DBL). This technology now meets industry standards through the qualification of the welding processes. Thick section welding of different materials The Shortcomings of Traditional Welding Traditional multi-pass and beveling methods for welding thick sections are plagued with inefficiencies. These processes often result in increased welding volume, which in turn consumes more time and materials. Common welding defects in such thick sections include spatter, porosity, underfill, concavity, and cracks induced by cooling. These defects primarily arise from issues like keyhole collapse and uncontrolled melt pool dynamics, exacerbated by rapid and uncontrolled cooling rates. The DBL Advantage Dynamic Beam Lasers introduce a new era in welding technology. DBLs offer unique features that significantly mitigate common welding defects by enhancing fluid dynamics, keyhole stability, weld geometry, and controlling solidification and cooling rates. The technology boasts a large depth of focus and focus steering capabilities as well as beam steering, which enable it to maintain stability over varied gap sizes up to 2mm, crucial for welding thick sections. Furthermore, DBL’s remote operation feature allows welding from meters away, providing protection of the laser optics. Melt flow dynamic influenced by beam sahpes Impressive Welding Results Civan Lasers has demonstrated remarkable success in welding applications across various materials and industries. For instance, DBL has shown excellent results in welding mild steel, particularly in constructing ship panels and wind tower structures. In stainless steel, DBL has proven effective for applications in power generation and pressure vessels, showcasing superior strength and durability. Aluminum, particularly in the 5xxx series, has been successfully used in ship panel construction, highlighting DBL’s versatility and capability in handling different materials and applications. Welding Mild Steel 25mm Welding of SS 316L 20mm Looking Ahead: The Future of DBL Welding The potential for Dynamic Beam Lasers in industrial applications of thick sections is vast and still unfolding. Future plans include qualifying more weld types in thicker thicknesses and wider range of materials. There are plans to harness higher power settings of up to 120kW, pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved in welding technology.

  • Welding Thick Copper Bus Bars for High Current Applications

    Thick Copper Welding As the battery industry continues to evolve and expand, the demand for batteries capable of handling higher power inputs has surged. This is particularly evident in sectors such as E-planes, E- boats and renewable energy storage. A critical component in achieving these high-power requirements is the use of bus bars, which are essentially conductive bars used to distribute power across different sections of a battery or between batteries. The Shift to Higher Voltage and Thicker Bus Bars To accommodate the need for higher power input, there's been a marked shift towards managing higher voltages within battery systems. This adjustment necessitates the use of thicker bus bars. Thicker bus bars are instrumental in handling the increased electrical load without overheating or losing efficiency. Copper, known for its excellent conductivity and durability, is the material of choice for these bus bars. However, welding thick copper bus bars, especially those above 4 mm in thickness, presents significant challenges. Challenges in Welding Thick Copper Welding thick copper is a complex task, primarily because most conventional lasers struggle to achieve a robust process that meets the necessary quality standards for such materials. The challenges are manifold: High Thermal Conductivity: Copper's high thermal conductivity complicates the welding process by dissipating heat rapidly, making it difficult to maintain the high temperatures needed for keyhole weld. Thickness Challenges: When the copper's thickness exceeds 4mm, these challenges become even more pronounced, making it difficult to achieve consistent and high-quality welds and requiring higher power levels. Blowholes & Porosity: porosity in common to find in copper welds. Blowholes are a specific type of porosity that occurs when larger gas pockets get trapped in the weld. These defects are particularly problematic in thick copper welding because of the metal's high thermal conductivity and the large volume of material. Managing the welding atmosphere and parameters is crucial to minimize the risk of blowholes. A Breakthrough with Civan's Dynamic Beam Laser Despite these obstacles, recent advancements have paved the way for significant improvements in welding thick copper bus bars. A notable breakthrough has been achieved by Civan's Dynamic Beam Laser technology. This innovative approach has demonstrated the capability to weld copper with a thickness of 4.6 mm, maintaining high quality throughout the process. Civan's Dynamic Beam Laser technology stands out because it offers a large parameter window, allowing for greater flexibility and control over the welding process. This adaptability is crucial for dealing with copper's inherent challenges. By precisely controlling the laser's parameters, Civan's technology can maintain the necessary Keyhole and melt pool dynamics, achieving strong and reliable welds even in thick copper bus bars. Copper welding analysis Copper welding cross sections

  • Civan Lasers Opens Its First European Office in Hannover, Germany

    Civan Lasers announces the opening of its first European office in Hannover, Germany, to enhance local service and R&D capabilities in laser technology. Office in Hannover Civan Lasers, a leader in Dynamic beam laser technology, proudly announces the opening of its first European office in Hannover, Germany. This expansion reflects our commitment to meet the growing demand for our innovative solutions in Germany and across Europe, improving our capability to deliver enhanced service and support. The new office will function as a central hub for sales, service, and research and development (R&D), with a focus on welding process innovation. It includes a demonstration room equipped with the latest in laser technology, notably a 14kW laser with a galvo scanner and a fast axis XY table in the application lab, designed to support a variety of applications from client demonstrations to in-depth R&D projects. Application Lab in the Hannover office. Equipped with a 14kW Dynamic Beam Laser Situated near the Lazer Zentrum Hannover (LZH), this location fosters collaboration with a leading research institute in laser welding and metal additive manufacturing, facilitating the cooperating of talented graduates and underscoring our dedication to innovation. At the helm of the Hannover office are Joel Meentzen, General Manager, and Dr.-Ing. Robert Bernhard, Application Lab & Branch Manager. Their combined expertise and leadership are integral to our mission in Europe. Dr.-Ing. Robert Bernhard preparing the next customer trials Joel Meentzen expressed his enthusiasm for the new facility, stating, "Our new office will significantly improve our service capabilities and response times for our customers, ensuring they receive the best possible support quickly and efficiently." Dr.-Ing. Robert Bernhard added, "The ability to conduct advanced research for welding processes within our application lab positions us uniquely to support our customers. We can now offer solutions tailored to their most challenging welding applications, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in laser technology." The application lab, set to open its doors to visitors starting March 1st, offers an exclusive opportunity to witness our Dynamic Beam Laser technology firsthand. About Civan Lasers Civan Lasers specializes in the development of dynamic beam lasers that revolutionize material processing applications. Committed to quality, efficiency, and innovation, Civan Lasers is dedicated to meeting the evolving needs of its global clientele. Civan Lasers Europe GmbH Hollerithallee 16A 30419 Hannover Germany The laser setup includes a galvo scanner and fast XY axis enabling a wide range of applications

  • Dynamic Beam Laser in Material Processing Research

    In the world of materials science and production, innovation is key to unlocking new possibilities and addressing existing challenges. Associate Professor Morten Kristiansen, a distinguished researcher from the Department of Materials and Production at Aalborg University, is at the forefront of this pursuit. Earlier this year, he made a groundbreaking acquisition for his laboratory – a Dynamic Beam Laser. Assoc. Prof. Kristiansen's research journey has been anchored in the history of using beam shapes for welding, cutting, and fabrication. His extensive experience in this domain has prepared him to fully grasp the immense potential of beam shaping in these applications. However, in the past, the possibilities of beam shaping were hampered by two major constraints: time and cost. Traditionally, creating a new beam shape required the design of Diffraction Optical Element, each of which was expensive and time-consuming to produce. Researchers like Assoc. Prof. Kristiansen were confined by the limitations of their available beam shapes, which hindered the exploration of innovative solutions to critical problems. The arrival of the Dynamic Beam Laser in Assoc. Prof. Kristiansen's laboratory marked a turning point. This cutting-edge technology allows researchers to design and implement new beam shapes in a matter of minutes, compared to the months it took previously. The implications for research are profound, as it drastically shortens the development time and opens up new avenues for exploration. Beam Shape Generation Software. One area where Assoc. Prof. Kristiansen sees immense potential for implementing beam shaping is in the welding of thick sections. Welding thick sections often leads to challenges such as cracks and porosity. These issues are well-understood, and beam shaping offers a unique opportunity to control the heat profile and melt pool dynamics. For instance, one innovative idea is to create a beam shape with a leading edge that can clean the weld seam, prevent contamination, and pre-heat the welded area, mitigating common welding problems. One potential area for beam shaping is welding of thick section. Another intriguing application that had been explored in the past with limited success due to constrained beam shapes is remote cutting. By using specific beam shapes, it becomes possible to generate pressure that aids in ejecting molten material during cutting operations, potentially revolutionizing this process. Assoc. Prof. Kristiansen's laboratory is currently in the construction stages but has already yielded promising results. Initial trials have demonstrated that different beam shapes can significantly influence various parameters, including heat profiles, melt pool dynamics, and spatter formation. These findings are setting the stage for further groundbreaking research. Images from initial results showing different cross sections for different beam shapes One of the primary objectives of Assoc. Prof. Kristiansen's lab is to serve as a hub for both students and industry professionals. The lab is committed to conducting research that benefits not only the academic community but also the broader industry. Its flexible setup allows for rapid adjustments to tackle various industry challenges, ensuring swift and effective research solutions. Setup of initial tests with a thermal camera to monitor the welding process. The laser installation with two robots for flexible beam and part manipulation. Dynamic Beam Laser represents a significant leap forward in the world of materials research. By overcoming the historical limitations of time and cost associated with beam shaping, this technology opens up exciting possibilities in welding, cutting, and fabrication. As Assoc. Prof. Kristiansen's lab continues to pave the way for innovative solutions and welcomes students and industry partners, the future of materials science and production looks brighter than ever. With the Dynamic Beam Laser as a catalyst for change, we can anticipate groundbreaking advancements in the field and solutions to longstanding challenges.

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