Application of new diode laser tools for cutting and welding

New diode laser devices use the modular character of diode lasers to form beam shapes that are adapted to the processing task. In this paper cutting and welding applications of these tools are presented. A linear laser line is applied for the cutting-to-length of coil material. Diode laser modules that form an annular laser spot are utilized for optical flame cutting of steel material and simultaneous welding of annular seams. Furthermore, cutting of thin materials with a diode laser cutting plotter device is demonstrated. Moreover, new results of welding experiments with commercial diode lasers are presented.