Yes, laser welding is indeed a fusion welding process.
Laser welding uses a highly focused laser beam as a heat source to melt the base materials. This localized melting causes the materials to fuse together upon cooling, creating a weld joint. This method applies to both metals and thermoplastics. Because the process involves melting and joining materials, it's classified as a fusion welding process. The term "fusion" directly relates to the act of materials melding together in a molten state. Other fusion welding processes include arc welding, gas welding, and electron beam welding.
Key aspects that solidify laser welding as a fusion process:
- Localized Heat Input: The concentrated laser beam provides precise heat input to the welding zone.
- Melting: The heat melts the materials being joined.
- Fusion: The molten materials flow together and fuse as they cool and solidify.
- No Filler Metal (Usually): While filler metal can be used in some cases, it is not typically required, reinforcing the nature of laser welding as a fusion process where the base materials themselves are joined directly.
In summary, the defining characteristic of a fusion welding process is the melting and joining of materials. Laser welding definitively fulfills this requirement.
