Week 13: Wild Card Week

Metal Laser Cutting

This week I explored metal laser cutting, which was similar to the laser cutting I did in Week 01, but using a different machine. While the basic workflow was familiar—preparing the design, setting parameters, and cutting—the machine itself was a fiber laser (as opposed to the CO₂ laser used for cardboard and other materials). The process felt similar in terms of workflow, but the material and machine capabilities were quite different.

Welding Attempt

I also tried welding, though it didn't work out as expected. Still, it was nice to try and learn about the process.

Welding Process Overview

Welding uses shop air as a shielding gas at high pressure. The laser melts the material, and then the gas blows it away. For carbon steel, you connect a wire to ground and another wire to the material (typically 0.032in wire). To enable lasering, you emit the laser, which creates the weld.

Types of Welding

With a laser welder, you can do tack welding, which creates temporary connections. For a stronger weld, you add material during the process. In contrast, a spot welder doesn't add material but works by sandwiching two pieces together.

Safety equipment is essential: autodarkening helmets for welding and gloves to protect your hands during the process.