The DNE Handheld Fiber Laser Welder is not a new technology (it has been around for 30+ years), but it is one many manufacturing professionals may not have experience with. However, this easy-to-use welder is a machine that can have a positive impact on the bottom line, and is certainly worth getting to know.
Laser welding achieves precise, high-quality welds with minimal heat input. The focused laser beam reduces thermal distortion and maintains material integrity, resulting in improved weld quality. Plus, the concentrated light allows precise adjustment of heat input based on desired weld depth and width. This flexibility enables both deep penetration welds and thin-sheet welding without significant material damage.
Laser welding is non-contact, reducing the risk of contamination. It’s ideal for industries like medical device manufacturing and food processing, where sanitary welds are crucial. Laser welding offers fast welding speeds, making it efficient for production. While some limitations exist, laser welding can be applied to a broader range of materials, including dissimilar materials, compared to other methods. Finally, laser welding can be done by individuals who do not have significant experience with traditional forms of welding.
The DNE Handheld Fiber Laser Welder comes in several different models with different capabilities: HW-30, HW-40, and HW-60. The numeric in the model’s name is standard for thickness of penetration. For example, the HW-60 has a 6mm (.24”)weld penetration, while HW-40 has a 4mm (.16”) weld penetration. Please note that this limitation is only for penetration and not thickness. You can weld two pieces of 1” material but the penetration of weld will only be a maximum of ~0.25”.
All these models can weld dissimilar materials (thickness or type).
No, this laser welder is specifically designed to produce high quality welds at fast speeds. The laser welder does not need to clean material because it naturally passivates any surface contaminants prior to welder. The cutting function requires a much different mode of beam and is deemed unsafe for standard fabrication environments.
There are more than 10,000 DNE Handheld Laser Welder installations globally. Currently, there are more than 200 in the USA, with that number increasing every day.
Yes, the DNE Handheld Laser Welder comes standard with an I/O interface that can externally control the welder. You can use the existing torch and do not need to purchase a special torch or modify any wiring to make it compatible.
The lightweight units weigh between 55 and 86 pounds. They have casters and can be easily wheeled around a facility.
This welder runs on 220V single phase power. The draw is 22 amps for the HW-30, 25 amps for the HW-40 and 28 amps for the HW-60.
Yes, the DNE Handheld Laser Welder requires Argon or Nitrogen gas at 99.99% purity. Parameters can range from 11 to 72 psi with up to 55 SCFH.
You can operate the DNE Handheld Laser Welder with or without wire. The main benefit of welding with wire is that it helps fill gaps and assists the operator. The DNE Handheld Laser requires a standard welding wire that should be selected based on material type or thickness.
The DNE Handheld Laser Welder comes standard with a wire feeder. Because it is part of the welding unit, it is completely synchronized and feeds wire at the rate specified by the operator in the parameters.
While it is true that laser welders can be more sensitive to the accuracy of the fit up, the combination of filler wire and the DNE welder’s “wobble” function (of up to 4 mm) helps support the filling of gaps in part fit up.
Safety is our top priority. To ensure operator safety, our handheld laser welder incorporates two critical safety features. First, we include a laser safety helmet with every purchase that is synchronized with the welder. This means that the DNE welder automatically shuts off when the helmet is removed. Additionally, our welder includes a part contact interlock which ceases operation if contact with the workpiece is lost.
Environmental safety is the responsibility of the user and can be addressed through the implementation of separate rooms or laser safety enclosures/barriers. We can include, as options, fully enclosed fixed enclosures, portable enclosures without roofs, and paneled barriers. If you choose not to invest in one of our enclosures, adherence to the ANSI Z136.1 American National Standard for Safe Use of Lasers is recommended. Specifically, ANSI Z136 4.4.2.1.1 provides clear instructions for this scenario.
It's easy! Contact us to set up an in-person demo in Waukesha, WI, or a virtual demonstration with one of our knowledgeable sales reps.
Yes, sample parts can be completed. Please contact us to send your part files request to conduct a sample part review.
If you have any other questions about the DNE Handheld Welder, please contact us.
