Laser/powdered metal cladding nozzle

摘要

Laser powered metal cladding apparatus that projects a laser beam to impinge upon a metal workpiece to form a shallow puddle of liquid metal is provided with a passage through which powered metal is delivered to the puddle. The apparatus includes a removable conical nozzle having a central opening through which the laser beam and powered metal exit the apparatus. The central opening extends to the front surface of the nozzle, which front surface is the smaller end of the nozzle and is in close proximity to the workpiece. A plurality of axial passages in the tapered wall of the nozzle extend rearward from the front surface and are arranged in an array that is centered around the central opening. A relatively high volume of inert gas flows through these axial passages to form a curtain that acts as an oxidation shield at the puddle of liquid metal, prevents powered metal from spreading sideways as it exits the central opening and drives sputtering particles back to the workpiece. This high volume of inert gas also serves to cool the nozzle thereby increasing the life thereof.