In the field of laser welding, pulsed and continuous modes are two common operating modes. These modes differ significantly in their principles, characteristics, and application scenarios. A deeper understanding of these differences can help you select the most appropriate mode for your welding needs, ultimately improving welding quality and efficiency.

In terms of their working principle, pulsed laser welding periodically outputs short, high-energy laser pulses, instantly melting and solidifying the material to complete the weld. CW laser welding, on the other hand, continuously outputs a stable laser beam, keeping the material molten under the continuous action of the laser until the weld is complete. This fundamental difference determines how the energy transmission and heat effects of the two welding processes differ significantly.

In terms of welding characteristics, pulsed lasers offer the advantages of low heat input and high peak power. They release energy in a very short time, reducing thermal deformation of the material, making them particularly suitable for welding heat-sensitive materials or thin workpieces. For example, in welding electronic components, the pulsed mode allows for precise control of solder joint size, avoiding thermal damage to surrounding precision components. Continuous lasers, on the other hand, are characterized by high energy density and stable energy output, resulting in fast welding speeds and deep penetration, making them suitable for high-speed welding of thick plate materials. However, their heat-affected zone is relatively large, making them more susceptible to deformation.

In practical applications, the two modes each have their own strengths. Pulsed lasers are commonly used in jewelry, precision instruments, lithium batteries, and other applications requiring extremely high welding precision and minimal thermal deformation. CW lasers, on the other hand, are widely used in the production of large structural components, such as those in the automotive and shipbuilding industries, where thick plates need to be welded. Furthermore, pulsed lasers can also be used for localized welding processes such as spot and seam welding, while CW lasers are more suitable for continuous welding of long seams.

There is no difference between pulse and continuous laser welding modes. The key is to reasonably select the appropriate mode based on material properties, welding requirements and production efficiency needs to maximize the efficiency of laser welding.