Patent ID: 7019256
Filing Date: 2006-03-28
Classification: B23K

Abstract:
1. A composite YAG laser/arc welding apparatus comprising a YAG laser welding head which emits a YAG laser beam which irradiates a member being welded; a hood having an opening therein which permits the YAG laser beam emitted from the head to pass therethrough and which is open toward the member being welded; an arc electrode secured to the hood and inclined to the center axis of the YAG laser beam to target, from outside of the YAG laser beam, a point on the member being welded which is irradiated by the YAG laser beam; a sleeve disposed between the YAG laser welding head and the hood and having an inner space in which the YAG laser beam passes through; a gas supply port for supplying a shield gas to the opening of the hood through the inner space of the sleeve; and a power supply connected between the member being welded and the arc electrode supplying electric power which is effective to start an arc, and to maintain the arc after it has once started from the arc electrode as a result of plasmoid gasses and metal vapors which are produced by the irradiation of the member being welded by the YAG laser.