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New laser welding technology to be launched at EuroBLECH

In addition to a new cooling solution for sheet metal cutting systems, Trumpf also plans to launch a new technology for improving the quality and robustness of laser welding at EuroBLECH 2022. 

Named BrightLine Scan, the new technology – initially being launched on the robotics of the TruLaser Weld 5000 laser welding machine – will allow users to manipulate a beam over the workpiece using a scanner. 

The combination of robot and scanner supplements the forward motion of the robot with a further, freely programmable movement of the laser in any desired direction, increasing flexibility during laser welding. 

According to Trumpf, by enabling scan frequencies in the kilohertz range, the new technology doubles the thickness of sheets that can be processed in heat conduction welding, from three to six millimetres. It also makes it easier to achieve tighter tolerances and achieve higher quality welds. 

This makes BrightLine Scan particularly suitable for producing agricultural and construction machinery. In addition, the high precision and quality of the seams it enables also makes the technology an efficient choice for manufacturing furniture products, EV battery trays and electrical cabinets. 

'BrightLine Scan is another example of Trumpf’s determination to offer industry-relevant solutions by focusing on the needs of sheet-metal fabricators,’ says Trumpf product manager Martin Geiger. ‘Companies can enjoy huge benefits by incorporating this technology in their day-to-day work, because tighter tolerances in the welding process mean less scrap, faster processing and lower costs. 

'Previously, we had to position the laser beam right over the seam to guarantee a high-quality weld. If you deviated from the right spot by a millimetre, or even less, the part often had to be scrapped. But now that the beam can also be guided via the scanner, it’s easier to achieve tighter tolerances. That makes it possible to correct any minor inaccuracies that creep in during previous steps such as bending.’

Fabricators can also benefit from BrightLine Scan in the TruLaser Weld 5000’s TruTops Weld offline programming system. This allows users to program the machine while it is busy welding a different part. 

'Offline programming is a fast and economical solution for both low and high-volume production,’ says Geiger. ‘And the ability to store all the basic process information directly on the machine gives us the buffer we need to deal with the shortage of skilled workers.'

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