A laser welding glove box is widely used in metallurgy, aeronautics, energy, research and development, automotive, nuclear and other markets. When the project involves carrying out very resistant and high-quality welding on metals or metal alloys, the TIG or laser welding process is used. The glove box allows this operation to be carried out under inert gas, especially on metals subject to oxidation when welded in ambient air.

Laser Welding

Welding is a process that allows the assembly of mechanical and metallic parts that can be made of the same or different materials. With TIG welding, the welding machine creates an electric arc between the part which is to be welded and the infusible tungsten electrode. The welder uses a filler metal to join them together. Laser welding occurs when the welding machine emits a laser beam to fuse the edges of the two parts and create a molten pool. The beam is the thickness of a hair and does not require the use of filler metal. It allows end-users to act with precision and finesse. The result is an almost perfect assembly, both in terms of strength and aesthetic quality. We can laser weld materials such as steel, copper, stainless steel, nickel, titanium…

The glove box becomes indispensable when laser welding materials such as titanium, molybdenum and tantalum. These materials present a high risk of oxidation if the welding process takes place in the open air. Titanium, for example, loses its strength and can turn blue or gray. The quality of the weld will be seriously compromised. This problem can be avoided by using a glove box.

Which Glove Box for Laser Welding?

In general, an inert gas glove box with integrated torch and gas purification unit is used for laser welding. The shielding gas is often noble gas (argon, helium or a mixture of both). The regulation of the humidity and oxygen content in ppm makes it possible to work safely while ensuring the mechanical strength of the welds. Especially since certain standards must be respected. The welders can also save time, because with laser welding, the welding speed is very high and can deliver up to 8 meters of welding per minute.

The advantages of using a laser welding glove box are many.

  • It reduces the heat affected zone (HAZ).
  • It minimizes the coloration of the parts to be joined.
  • The weld is more precise because there are no deformations.
  • Welding of very thin surfaces and hard-to-reach areas is possible.
  • The assembly is more resistant.

Besides laser welding, a glove box can also be used for TIG welding under inert gas. The welder can adapt his technique depending on the application: edge-to-edge welding, spot welding, welding with or without material input, transparency welding, clinch welding… These enclosures are suitable for all experiments where the working environment must be anhydrous, ultra-clean and anaerobic, such as in the development and manufacture of medical supplies, batteries, super capacitors, etc. Metallurgical, nuclear, aeronautical and research and development industries are the main users.