Method and apparatus for welding.

摘要

A beam such as a laser beam is used to weld two or more overlapping layers of metal together. The beam is generated by a generator (1), and applied through a tubular clamping element (2) which cooperates with a second tubular clamping element (3) to squeeze together the metal layers to be welded. By feeding an inert gas within the tubular elements (2, 3) via jets (15), an oxygen-free weld zone may be obtained. The beam is deflected to create a substantially spiral-shaped weld pattern. The beam generated may be moved under the control of a computer (6), or the workpiece and clamping members may be moved.
<??>Improved weld strength over prior art resistance welding techniques is achieved, with a greater tolerance for differences in the relative thickness of the metal layers.