Arc augmented laser processing of materials

It has recently been found that an electric arc can be added to the interaction between a laser beam and a material surface in such a way that in welding and cutting it produces an effect similar to that from a more powerful laser. The experimental results are discussed together with an analysis of the process mechanism. In particular it appears that the arc strikes the work piece at the same interaction zone as the laser, and in so doing undergoes a contraction in width to near the same size as the laser beam. It also seems probable that some of the arc energy penetrates the laser generated keyhole. So far the experimental results have shown that arc augmentation of the laser by some 2 kW of arc power in the work piece can be achieved without unduly spoiling the high quality of the cut or weld that would be made by a laser alone of similar total power.