Laser hybrid welding of uncoated boron steel for automotive body construction

The automotive industry is in constant pursuit of alternative materials and processes to address the ever changing needs of their customer and the environment. This paper presents findings from a study using a laser hybrid process (laser with Gas Metal Arc Welding) to join uncoated boron steel. In order to understand the affect from laser hybrid joining process, bead on plate experiments were conducted using 1.0 mm, 1.5 mm and 2.0 mm thick coupons. Further, one lap joint configuration was also investigated using the 1.5 mm thick coupons. Based on the test results, a significant reduction in tensile strength was observed at the Heat Affected Zone (HAZ).