Air-cooled and water-cooled handheld laser welder are common in the market and are widely used in various industries. They each have their own characteristics. When purchasing a handheld welding machine, there are some obvious differences in terms of cooling methods and working principles. So, how should we choose?
1.Cooling Methods
- Water-cooled handheld laser welding machines use a water cooling system for heat dissipation. The cooling system circulates cooling water to absorb the heat generated by the laser and takes it away. The cooling water flows through the laser and other critical components, absorbs heat, and then dissipates it through the radiator before circulating back. Water cooling has higher heat dissipation efficiency and stability, making it suitable for high-power handheld laser welding equipment.
- Air-cooled handheld laser welding machines use components like fans and radiators for cooling. When the laser is operating, the fan rapidly rotates, blowing air onto the radiator, and dissipates the heat through convection and radiation. This cooling method is simple and effective, suitable for some low to medium-power handheld laser welding equipment.
2.Welding Thickness
- There is no difference in welding materials between air-cooled and water-cooled handheld laser welding machines; they are suitable for various metal and non-metal materials. However, there are some differences in welding thickness. Water-cooled handheld laser welding machines are generally suitable for thicker materials due to their higher heat dissipation efficiency, which allows them to absorb and dissipate more heat. Water-cooled machines are commonly used with higher-power laser equipment, which can handle thicker materials with ease.
- Air-cooled handheld laser welding machines, with relatively lower heat dissipation efficiency, are suitable for low to medium-power laser equipment. When welding thicker materials, additional measures may be needed, such as multiple overlapping welds or adjusting welding parameters, to ensure welding quality.
3.Characteristics and Application Scenarios
- Compared to air-cooled handheld welding, water-cooled handheld laser welding machines require the installation of a water tank and other equipment, making them larger in size. Water-cooled machines use a water circulation system for better heat dissipation, allowing them to work for extended periods, making them more suitable for high-power lasers, and thus, are more suitable for medium to large-sized enterprises or factories with limited application scenarios.
- Air-cooled handheld laser welding machines are characterized by their small size, portability, low noise, and lower cost. They are suitable for medium to low-power lasers and are ideal for mobile scenarios and temporary repairs. They are well-suited for small-scale manufacturing industries, such as home-based businesses, personal workshops, and a wide range of other scenarios.
4.Maintenance Aspect
- Water-cooled machines are usually cabinet models, making them easy to be embedded inside the welding machine cabinet. Water cooling utilizes a water circulation system to lower the temperature, reducing the heat of the laser and welding head. In terms of maintenance, regular replacement of the circulating water is required.
- On the other hand, air-cooled handheld laser welding machines use a combination of fans and radiators for cooling. During operation, the fan quickly rotates to blow away the heat around the laser and welding head, while the radiator conducts heat to the surface of the heat sink and dissipates it into the surrounding air. Maintenance is relatively simple, with only the need to keep the fan and radiator clean.
How to choose handheld laser welding machines?
- Consider the need for frequent equipment mobility. If you require frequent movement, air-cooled handheld welding may be more suitable for your needs.
- Take into account the thickness of the welding material and the welding power. For thicker materials and high-power welding demands, water-cooled handheld laser welding is a good choice.
- Assess the need for long-term continuous use. If you require prolonged welding, water-cooled handheld laser welders are more suitable for your needs.
- Consider the work environment and temperature. Water-cooled handheld welding is more suitable for use in high-temperature environments, as it provides better heat dissipation and stability.
- Evaluate the equipment cost. Water-cooled handheld welding machines require an additional water cooling system, which increases equipment costs. If you don’t have high heat dissipation requirements, air-cooled handheld laser welding may be a more cost-effective choice.
