Beam misalignment
Beam decentering is an alignment error in laser or plasma welding where the beam does not pass centered through the cutting nozzle. This leads to uneven kerf and asymmetric edge quality.
Physical-Chemical Mechanism of Action
The laser or plasma beam is guided through a cutting nozzle to melt the material. If the beam is not centered (beam decentering), it pushes material away unevenly and deforms the cut surface.
Metallurgical Relevance & Risks in Welding
The uneven deformation of the cut surface can lead to uneven stresses, which in turn can cause cracks or fractures in the weld seam. The asymmetric edge quality can impair the mechanical strength and toughness of the overall weld structure.
Workshop Practice & Instructions
To avoid beam decentering, the laser beam or plasma jet must be guided exactly centrally through the cutting nozzle. This can be achieved by careful adjustment and calibration of the laser system. If a fault occurs, the cutting nozzle should be checked and, if necessary, replaced to guide the beam centrally again.