Application development // laser spot modulation

Coating development by means of laser spot modulation – LC modulation

The aim of the ‘LC Modulation’ project is to increase the performance of laser cladding by using a new type of laser source. For the first time, a fibre laser is being used that modulates a laser spot from seven individual laser beams.

A special feature here is that the power of each individual laser beam can be adjusted individually. In combination with the GTV-6 beam powder laser nozzle, this makes it possible to individually adjust the heat input into the powder for each injection point, which represents further optimisation potential, particularly in the development of in-situ alloys.

In addition, research is being conducted to determine whether modulation can be used to produce smoother surfaces, thereby reducing the amount of post-processing required.

co-financed by the European Union