Patent ID: 7259353
Filing Date: 2007-08-21
Classification: B23K

Abstract:
1. A compact nozzle for use in laser cladding operations comprising: a conically shaped housing with a top plate, a lower end, and an outer wall, the housing defining an inner region and an outer region, the housing further having a circular opening centered on a central axis; a central projection disposed along the central axis of the housing that is capable of discharging a laser from an end thereof and through the circular opening; a cooling jacket within the housing that at least partially encircles the central projection; a powder convergance chamber within the housing that at least partially encircles the central projection; a gas passageway within the housing; and a ring opening formed in the housing outer wall and surrounding the circular opening, the ring opening in fluid communication with the gas passageway and having at least a portion thereof extending along the wall from an open end to a closed end, the open end disposed proximate the housing lower end, and the closed end disposed about horizontally level with the end of the central projection.