Product Code: JLA_14_2_78

Authors:
H. Gedda
Luleå University of Technology, Division of System and Manufacturing Engineering, S-971 87 Luleå, Sweden

J. Powell
Laser Expertise Ltd., Acorn Park Industrial Estate, Harrimans Lane, Nottingham NG7 2TR, United Kingdom

G. Wahlstro¨m
Duroc AB, Industriva¨gen 8, S-90130 Umeå, Sweden

W.-B. Li
H. Engstro¨m
C. Magnusson
Luleå University of Technology, Division of System and Manufacturing Engineering, S-971 87 Luleå, Sweden

This article examines the factors that effect the efficiency of the CO₂-laser powder cladding process. By theoretical calculation and experimental work it has been possible to identify how much of the original laser energy contributes to the cladding process and how much is lost to the surrounding environment by reflection, radiation, convection, etc. Every aspect of energy redistribution has been analyzed and quantified and this has led to a deeper understanding of the process. The article concludes with a number of suggestions for improving the efficiency of blown powder laser cladding. © 2002 Laser Institute of America.