TRUMPF GmbH's position as a key tool in building automobiles was highlighted at this year's European Automotive Laser Applications trade show held in Bad Nauheim from February 3rd 2010 to February 4th 2010. Technology supplier TRUMPF introduced its new concepts for the use of laser in the automotive industry. TRUMPF laser experts gave their insights on the cost benefits of various lasers for use in automotive production.
Many automotive manufacturers are currently asking this question when they consider whether to continue using their lamp-pumped solid-state lasers. These lasers, most of which have an output of 4 kilowatts, have been used for welding, cutting and soldering car bodies for about ten years.
Mr Rudiger Brockmann, automotive branch manager at TRUMPF Laser und Systemtechnik, said that "The answer to this question is really very easy. While lamp pumped solid state lasers demonstrate efficiency factors of only about 3%, the TRUMPF TruDisk disk lasers achieve more than 25% and the TRUMPF TruDiode diode lasers more than 35%. This cost benefits are also preserved if you include the investment costs for the laser and accessories."
Mr Brockmann said that "Disk lasers are somewhat higher in terms of energy costs due to the lower efficiency factor compared to the diode lasers. Because we are the laser company with the most comprehensive platform when it comes to laser beam sources, we can offer customers the best laser solution for their application."
Together with the steel company ArcelorMittal, TRUMPF has investigated the effect of weld seam geometries optimization on the stability of advanced high strength steel based assemblies. Those steel grades are becoming increasingly important in car body construction because they demonstrate better crash properties at reduced weights and thus comply with current challenges of the automotive industry.
