Aluminum

Because of its higher reflection of the laser beam, aluminum requires higher intensities at the surface of the workpiece. Here, for example, the Nd:YAG laser, with its shorter wavelength, has the edge over the CO₂ laser, although CO₂ lasers are in fact used for industrial welding of aluminum. Depending on the set-up and the geometry of the welds, filler wires are sometimes used in welding aluminum, to bridge gaps and to allow welding without undercuts.

The welding of stringer profiles in aircraft construction is shown here as an example. This application reduces the weight of the components by approx. 10 %, thus contributing to fuel economy in worldwide air traffic. In addition, this application lowers manufacturing costs.