Product Code: PIC2008_M502

Microwelding Performance Comparison Between a Low Power (125W) Pulsed Nd:Yag Laser and a Low Power (200W) Single Mode Fiber Laser
Authors:
Mohammed Naeem, GSI Group, Inc. - Laser Division; Rugby Great Britain
Steffan Lewis, Gsi Group; Rugby Great Britain
John Crinn, Gsi Group; Rugby Great Britain
Presented at PICALO 2008

The increasing complexity of microelectronics/ engineering devices and the requirement for higher yields and automated production systems place stringent demands on the assembly techniques and performance requirements of materials and joining techniques. This has led to increasing interest in the use of low power lasers for microwelding of small assemblies. Of particular interest to micro-component industries is the ability of such lasers to apply controlled amounts of energy in precise areas, utilizing extremely low heat input, resulting in very low distortion, and coupled with the ability to operate at high production rates in a flexible manner. The primary drivers in Microtechnology are: smaller size, increased sophistication and complexity, greater local intelligence, increased predication of in-service reliability and lower cost. These trends result in the need for new materials and assembly technologies and are consequently the adoption of laser as production tools. GSI Group, Laser Division manufactures a range of low power pulsed lasers and single mode fiber lasers for microwelding. This paper highlights microwelding results achieved in a range of materials with both laser sources and also discusses advantages and disadvantages for both pulsed and single mode fiber lasers.