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Numerous benefits One of the major topics discussed at the workshop was the numerous benefits laser welding offers over traditional welding methods. Factory Smart’s John Owen Welgemoed , underscored the efficiency of laser welding, explaining, “With laser welding, you can work two to three times faster than conventional methods, depending on the material. It produces neat, precise welds with very small heat-affected zones, especially on stainless steel. This significantly reduces distortion and resolves many manufacturing challenges”. Welgemoed shared examples from his own experience, including a customer in Paarl who had drastically reduced production times. “A job that previously took him eight hours to complete with traditional welding, now takes just two hours using laser welding. “This improvement has opened doors for more work, new projects, and even the possibility of exporting. By speeding up production times and minimising finishing work, businesses can save costs on labour and materials, making laser welding a more efficient and economical choice,” he explained. Overall, one of the key takeaways from the workshop was the potential for laser welding to reduce labour costs and increase production efficiency. Welgemoed remarked, “Laser welding will drastically improve production efficiency and reduce labour costs. The future of manufacturing will be shaped by this technology. By adopting laser welding, businesses can expect to increase
their output and reduce waste, while also contributing to the overall industrial growth of the country. Versatility across industries Laser welding’s versatility was another highlight of the workshop. Whether it’s used for cutting-edge aerospace components or intricate jewellery making, this technology is applicable across numerous industries. One particularly compelling demonstration at the event showcased the ability of laser welders to work with tricky materials like aluminium and stainless steel, delivering high-quality results. Welgemoed gave an example of aluminium welding, stating, “This material can be tricky no matter the method, but with a laser welder, it’s easier. You simply place the torch, and the wire pushes the weld along smoothly. With a 1.5-kilowatt laser, you can achieve three to four millimetres of penetration”. Laser welding’s applications go beyond basic metal joining. The technology is being used for laser cleaning, laser bending, and even laser dentistry, showcasing its incredible range. Lawrence pointed out that industries like aerospace and food processing are set to benefit greatly from these advancements. The need for training and certification As laser welding technology continues to advance, the importance of proper training and certification cannot be overstated. SAIW Practical Training Manager Confidence Lekoane, announced that the institute will be introducing a laser welding courses starting in 2025 to meet the rising demand for skilled laser welders. “Our new course will provide an introduction to laser welding, covering the fundamentals of the process, the equipment used, and essential safety precautions. Participants will learn about quality control, how to eliminate and prevent defects, and get hands-on training”. She added that given the precision and high-energy output of laser welding equipment, safety protocols are a top priority. Factories using laser systems must have specialised safety zones, and operators need to be well-trained to prevent accidents. “For instance, improper handling of a laser cleaning system could result in unintended damage to the surrounding area, making education a crucial component of laser technology adoption”. The Laser Welding Workshop hosted by Sassda at the SAIW Campus was a resounding success, providing participants with valuable insights into the future of laser welding technology. As Lawrence, Welgemoed, and Lekoane all emphasised, laser welding is not only more efficient and versatile than traditional methods but also easier to learn and implement. This makes it an attractive option for industries looking to modernise their production processes and remain competitive.
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Issue 4 – 2024
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