Pulsed Laser Welding Improves Die and Mold Capabilities

Compared to other welding approaches, laser welding offers superior metallurgical benefits for improved die performance over time, so G.H. Tool & Mold, LLC (Washington, MO) invested in an AL500 mobile laser welding system from Alpha Laser U.S. (Meadville, PA) for making die repairs and engineering changes to mold cavity surfaces, as well as refurbishment of critical wear surfaces. “This equipment will help us better serve our customers,” said Dave Graves, the president of G.H. Tool. “In addition to the precision of the pulsed laser equipment, we can now work in a wide variety of materials and repair molds faster and with more refinement than using other approaches.” The accuracy of the laser beam allows for focusing into deep cavities and recesses in complex molds. Pulsed laser welding employs lower temperatures than other welding approaches, resulting in a much smaller heat affected zone (HAZ) that has a positive impact on how a repaired or modified mold will perform over time. With extremely short setup times and mobility, the AL500 laser will provide this shop with increased flexibility for mold repair.

G.H. Tool & Mold, LLC, 28 Chamber Drive, Washington, MO 63090, 636-390-2424, www.ghtool.com.