Power and Laser Type
The power of the laser is one of the most important factors to consider. Higher power lasers can weld thicker materials but are more expensive. Common power options are:
- 1000W – Good for welding up to 2-3mm thick stainless steel, carbon steel, aluminum etc.
- 1500W – Can weld up to 3-4mm thick metals, the most popular option.
- 2000W – Handles materials up to 5-6mm thick.
You’ll also need to choose between pulsed or continuous wave (CW) lasers. Pulsed lasers are better for thin sheet metal while CW lasers are required for thicker workpieces.
Portability and Design
Since these are handheld units, portability is key. Look for compact and lightweight designs that are easy to maneuver. The welding gun should have an ergonomic grip and be well-balanced. Some models come with a rolling cart for easy mobility.
Ease of Use
User-friendly controls and simple setup are important, especially for beginners. Look for machines with intuitive interfaces, automatic settings, and quick calibration procedures. Built-in tutorials can also help with the learning curve.
Material Compatibility
Make sure the laser welder can handle the types of metals you need to weld – stainless steel, aluminum, mild steel, titanium etc. Higher power is required for highly reflective or thicker materials.
Accessories and Consumables
Check what consumables like nozzles, wire feeders, gas hoses etc. are included. Having the right accessories makes setup and operation easier. Availability of spare parts is also important for maintenance.
Brand and Support
Stick to reputable brands that provide good technical support and warranty coverage. This ensures you can get help when needed and source replacement parts easily.Some of the top brands for handheld laser welders include IPG Photonics, Amada, Trumpf, Coherent, ARCOS, Han’s Laser and Raycus.
Budget
Handheld laser welding machines can cost anywhere from $8,000 for basic 1000W units to over $30,000 for high-end 2000W+ models with all accessories. Define your budget and requirements to find the right balance of features and cost. By considering factors like power needs, portability, ease of use and brand reputation, you can select a handheld laser welder best suited for your metal fabrication applications.
