LASER/POWDERED METAL CLADDING NOZZLE

摘要

A laser powdered metal cladding apparatus (10) includes a removable conical nozzle (15) having a central opening (23) through which the laser beam and powdered metal exit the apparatus. The opening (23) extends to the front surface (53) of the nozzle that is in close proximity to the workpiece (25). Axial passageway (51) in the tapered wall of the nozzle extend rearward from the front surface (53) and are arranged in an array that is centered around the opening (23). Inert gas flows through these axial passageways (51) to cool t he nozzle and to form an oxidation shield at the puddle of liquid metal (26). W ateror other cooling fluid is circulated through a water jacket (40) between apertures (41) to cool the apparatus (10). Powdered metal for cladding is delivered to a conical passage (35) at its inlets (36), and exits through the opening (23).