Effect of Alternating Magnetic Field on Arc Plasma Characteristics and Droplet Transfer during Narrow Gap Laser-MIG Hybrid Welding

In this paper, the morphological characteristics of arc plasma and droplet transfer during the alternating magnetic field-assisted narrow gap groove laser-MIG (metal inert gas) hybrid welding process were investigated. The characteristics of arc plasma and droplet transfer, electron temperature, and density were analyzed using a high-speed camera and spectrum diagnosis. Our results revealed that the arc maintained a relatively stable state and rotated at a high speed to enhance the arc stiffness, and further improved the stability of the arc under the alternating magnetic field. The optimum magnetic field parameters in this experiment were B = 16 mT and f = 20 Hz, the electron temperature was 9893.6 K and the electron density was 0.99 x 10(17) cm(-3) near the bottom of the groove, which improved the temperature distribution inside the narrow gap groove and eliminated the lack of sidewall fusion defect. Compared to those without a magnetic field, the magnetic field could promote droplet transfer, the droplet diameter decreased by 17.6%, and the transition frequency increased by 23.5% (owing to the centrifugal force during droplet spinning and electromagnetic contraction force). The width of the weld bead was increased by 12.4% and the pores were also significantly reduced due to the stirring of the magnetic field on the molten pool.

Automated summary

This study investigated the morphological characteristics of arc plasma and droplet transfer during the alternating magnetic field-assisted narrow gap groove laser-MIG hybrid welding process. It was found that the magnetic field improved arc stability, promoted droplet transfer, decreased droplet diameter, and increased weld bead width while reducing pores in the weld.