Laser-TIG hybrid welding
A combination process of a focused laser beam and a tungsten inert gas arc, uniting the high welding speed of the laser with the gap-bridging capability of the arc.
In laser-TIG hybrid welding, you combine the focused laser beam with the TIG arc. The laser melts the material and produces a deep, narrow weld, while the TIG arc stabilizes the weld pool and makes the weld wider. This is good for sheet metal where you need a clean root and want less distortion. Setting it up is tricky: if laser and arc are not properly matched, you get porosity or an uneven weld. Make sure the focal point and power match the material, and don't run the speed too high, otherwise the weld will crack. Clean material and correct gas are a must, otherwise the arc will be unstable.