Welding 1.2

Typical Laser Specific Questions

What is the minimum diameter of holes that lasers are capable of drilling?

0.0001 inches (0.0025 mm)

What type of rod was primarily used in the first lasers to generate laser light?

Synthetic ruby rod

What is the primary purpose of laser cutting?

To cut materials with precision using focused laser light

Describe how the precision of laser beams contributes to their effectiveness in data reading applications

The precision of laser beams ensures accurate data reading, allowing systems to correctly interpret information from uniform product code strips

Describe the advantages of using gas lasers in welding and cutting applications

Gas lasers offer high precision and efficiency in cutting and welding materials

What is one key benefit of only using highly focused laser beam in welding applications?

It allows for welding on very small, thin parts

Describe the primary difference between air carbon arc cutting and laser cutting in terms of their operational mechanisms

Air carbon arc cutting uses a carbon electrode to melt and blow away metal, while laser cutting uses focused laser light for precision

What effect does laser heating have on the absorption rate of materials?

It increases the absorption rate

What type of laser is known for having the highest continuous power output?

Gas Lasers

What is the primary characteristic of nonreactive gases in laser cutting?

They do not add any heat to the cutting process

Describe why the focused nature of laser light is beneficial for cutting and welding processes

The focused nature of laser light allows for precise cutting and welding due to minimal spreading of the beam

What are the two types of surfaces involved in the operation of the laser?

One fully reflective and one partially reflective surface

What issue arises from the prolonged operation of high-powered solid lasers?

Increase in internal temperatures

What is the key benefit of using high welding speeds in laser welding?

Minimizing thermal distortion

What is the result of the intense heat from a laser on a small spot of material?

The intense heat vaporizes the small spot with enough force to thrust the material out

Describe the advantages of using water jet cutting techniques compared to traditional cutting methods

Water jet cutting techniques provide advantages such as no-heat affected zones and the ability to cut various materials without altering their properties

What type of laser is commonly referred to as YAG laser?

Neodymium-doped, yttrium aluminum garnet laser

What type of laser is commonly used in drilling operations?

Solid state laser

What is one primary use of lasers in military applications?

To aim weapons and identify targets

What is the effect of exothermic gases on the material during the laser cutting process?

They react with the material being cut