Galvanized Steel Laser Welding Machines

Galvanized steel laser welding machines deliver clean, strong welds with minimal zinc damage—perfect for high-speed, corrosion-resistant steel fabrication and assembly.
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Product Introduction

Galvanized steel laser welding machines are specialized systems designed to deliver clean, high-strength welds on zinc-coated steel materials. Welding galvanized steel presents unique challenges due to zinc’s low vaporization point, which can cause porosity, spatter, and weak joints with conventional methods. Laser welding overcomes these issues with its concentrated energy beam, allowing for fast, precise welding with minimal heat input and reduced zinc evaporation. These machines are widely used in automotive manufacturing, HVAC systems, construction materials, and appliance production, where galvanized steel is commonly used for its corrosion resistance. Laser welding ensures minimal damage to the protective zinc layer, preserving the steel’s anti-corrosion properties while producing aesthetically clean weld seams. Many models feature advanced control systems, real-time feedback, and compatibility with robotic automation, making them ideal for both high-volume industrial production and custom fabrication. With the ability to weld thin to medium gauge galvanized sheets accurately and efficiently, galvanized steel laser welding machines are essential tools for manufacturers aiming to improve quality, speed, and consistency while minimizing rework and material waste.

Types of Galvanized Steel Laser Welding Machines

Welding Thickness Reference

Laser Power Welding Form Thickness Welding Speed Defocus Amount Protective Gas Blowing Method Flow Welding Effect
1000W Butt Welding 0.5mm 70~80 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely
Butt Welding 1mm 50~60 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely
Butt Welding 1.5mm 30~40 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely
Butt Welding 2mm 20~30 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely
1500W Butt Welding 0.5mm 80~90 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely
Butt Welding 1mm 70~80 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely
Butt Welding 1.5mm 50~60 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely
Butt Welding 2mm 30~40 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely
Butt Welding 3mm 10~20 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely
2000W Butt Welding 0.5mm 90~100 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely
Butt Welding 1mm 80~90 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely
Butt Welding 1.5mm 70~80 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely
Butt Welding 2mm 40~50 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely
Butt Welding 3mm 20~30 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely
3000W Butt Welding 0.5mm 100~110 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely
Butt Welding 1mm 90~100 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely
Butt Welding 1.5mm 80~90 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely
Butt Welding 2mm 70~80 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely
Butt Welding 3mm 40~50 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely
Butt Welding 4mm 20~30 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely
6000W Butt Welding 1mm 110~120 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely
Butt Welding 1.5mm 100~110 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely
Butt Welding 2mm 90~100 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely
Butt Welding 3mm 80~90 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely
Butt Welding 4mm 70~80 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely
Butt Welding 5mm 40~50 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely
Butt Welding 6mm 20~30 mm/s -1~1 Ar Coaxial/Paraaxial 5~10 L/min Welded Completely

Compatible Galvanized Steel Grades

Application of Galvanized Steel Laser Welding Machines

Galvanized steel laser welding machines are used across industries where strong, corrosion-resistant joints are essential. In the automotive sector, they are widely applied for welding body panels, chassis parts, and structural reinforcements made from galvanized steel, ensuring both strength and rust protection. In construction, they are ideal for fabricating galvanized frames, studs, supports, and roofing components with high precision and minimal post-weld processing. Appliance and HVAC manufacturers use laser welding for clean, reliable joints on galvanized steel enclosures, ducts, and housings, where appearance and performance both matter. These machines are also suited for electrical cabinets, industrial shelving, fencing, and galvanized pipe production. Because laser welding minimizes the heat-affected zone and reduces zinc vaporization, it preserves the integrity of the coating and reduces common issues like porosity or weak welds. With compatibility for automation and fast production speeds, these machines are a top choice for high-volume manufacturing and complex assembly lines.
Galvanized Steel Laser Welding Samples
Galvanized Steel Laser Welding Samples
Galvanized Steel Laser Welding Samples
Galvanized Steel Laser Welding Samples
Galvanized Steel Laser Welding Samples
Galvanized Steel Laser Welding Samples
Galvanized Steel Laser Welding Samples
Galvanized Steel Laser Welding Samples

Customer Testimonials

Comparison VS Other Welding Technologies

Comparison Item Laser Welding MIG Welding TIG Welding Stick Welding
Heat Input Low (minimal distortion, less zinc burn-off) Moderate Low to Moderate High (risk of zinc damage)
Weld Speed Very High High Low Moderate
Zinc Coating Preservation Excellent Moderate (often requires grinding) Fair Poor (heavy burn-off)
Weld Cleanliness Very High (no spatter) Moderate (spatter common) High Low (slag and spatter)
Fume Generation Minimal High (zinc fumes) Moderate High (zinc and electrode fumes)
Post-Weld Cleanup Minimal Moderate to High Low to Moderate High
Weld Strength High High High Moderate
Welding Thin Material Excellent Poor (burn-through risk) Excellent Poor
Automation Compatibility Excellent (CNC/robotic ready) Good Moderate Poor
Precision Very High Moderate High Low
Operator Skill Requirement Moderate (automated options available) Moderate High Low to Moderate
Production Throughput Very High High Low Moderate
Initial Equipment Cost High Moderate Moderate Low
Operating Cost Low Moderate High Low
Aesthetic Weld Finish Clean, narrow, discoloration-free Acceptable (often needs finishing) Very clean (but slow) Rough, inconsistent

Why Choose Us

AccTek Group is a professional manufacturer of laser welding machines, delivering precise, efficient, and reliable welding solutions for a wide range of industries. Our machines are designed to meet the growing demand for high-strength, low-distortion welding in applications such as sheet metal processing, automotive manufacturing, electronics, and aerospace. We combine advanced laser technology with user-friendly design to help businesses improve welding quality, reduce labor costs, and boost production efficiency. Whether you’re handling fine parts or large-scale components, our systems offer the flexibility and performance needed to meet modern manufacturing standards. With a strong focus on quality, innovation, and customer support, AccTek Group is your trusted partner for laser welding solutions.

High Precision

Our machines deliver accurate, clean welds with minimal heat input, reducing distortion and ensuring strong, consistent joints across a wide range of materials and thicknesses.

Easy Operation

Designed with intuitive controls and user-friendly interfaces, our systems allow both experienced operators and new users to achieve professional results with minimal training.

Durable & Reliable

Built with high-quality components and strict quality standards, our welding machines provide stable performance, long service life, and low maintenance requirements.

Custom Options

We offer a variety of models and customizable features to match specific production needs, helping businesses improve workflow and adapt to changing manufacturing demands.

Related Resources

Laser Welding VS TIG Welding

Laser Welding VS TIG Welding

This article compares laser welding and TIG welding across key factors, including process, equipment, applications, costs, and suitability for various industries.

Laser Welding VS MIG Welding

Laser Welding VS MIG Welding

This article compares laser welding and MIG welding in terms of process, applications, cost, quality, and efficiency to help readers understand their key differences.

What Is Laser Welding

What Is Laser Welding?

Explore the principles of laser welding, its benefits, applications, and how it compares to traditional welding methods. Learn how this advanced technology enhances precision and efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Do Galvanized Steel Laser Welding Machines Cost?
Galvanized steel laser welding machines are available in a wide range of configurations and price points depending on their power level, automation features, and build quality. Here’s a general breakdown of the price range:

  • Handheld Machines: Handheld laser welding machines for galvanized steel are compact, mobile, and suitable for light industrial applications, repair work, and low- to medium-volume production.
  1. Entry-level models start around $3,500 and offer basic welding capability.
  2. Higher-end handheld units priced closer to $18,000 may include features like dual-axis wobble heads, touchscreen control panels, and advanced safety systems, making them more suitable for continuous-duty operation.
  • Automatic Machines: Automatic laser welding systems are designed for production environments requiring consistent, high-speed, and repeatable welds.
  1. Machines in the lower range of $10,000 to $18,000 typically offer basic automation like fixed-position welding heads or semi-automated gantry systems.
  2. Premium models reaching up to $30,000 often feature multi-axis robotic arms, advanced sensors for seam tracking, integrated cooling systems, and CNC-compatible controls. These are ideal for large-scale fabrication and industrial automation.

When choosing a laser welding machine for galvanized steel, factors such as weld thickness, expected daily output, fume extraction requirements, and coating burn-off strategies should also guide your investment, not just price.
Laser welding galvanized steel offers precision and speed, but it also presents a unique set of challenges due to the zinc coating. Here are the main disadvantages:

  • Zinc Vaporization and Porosity: Galvanized steel is coated with zinc, which has a much lower boiling point than steel. During laser welding, the intense heat rapidly vaporizes the zinc at the joint. This creates high-pressure zinc gas that can become trapped in the molten pool, leading to porosity, blowholes, and weakened welds. Without proper gap design or venting techniques, this defect is difficult to avoid.
  • Weld Cracking and Brittleness: The interaction between molten zinc and steel can also cause intermetallic compounds to form along the fusion line. These compounds tend to be brittle and may lead to hot cracks, especially in high-strength galvanized steels. Pre-weld treatments like zinc removal or controlled root openings are often necessary to mitigate this risk.
  • Fume Generation and Health Risks: Zinc vapor doesn’t just impact weld quality—it also creates toxic fumes when it oxidizes. Without effective local exhaust ventilation (LEV) or fume extraction systems, the process poses serious respiratory hazards to operators. This makes safety planning and PPE (like fume-rated respirators) critical.
  • Higher Equipment Requirements: Laser welding galvanized steel requires precise control of power, speed, and beam focus. In many cases, specialized optics or multi-pass strategies are needed to reduce thermal stress and manage zinc evaporation. This demands more advanced (and often expensive) equipment compared to welding plain carbon steel.
  • Joint Design Limitations: Unlike traditional welding, laser welding has limited tolerance for joint gaps, especially when dealing with coated metals. Poor fit-up or inconsistent joint geometry can worsen defects caused by zinc outgassing, making part preparation and fixture accuracy more demanding.
  • Additional Pre- or Post-Processing Steps: To minimize issues, fabricators may need to pre-clean or partially remove the zinc coating from weld areas using grinding or chemical stripping. In some cases, post-weld treatments like sealing, painting, or additional heat treatment are required to restore corrosion resistance and appearance.

Laser welding galvanized steel can be effective in high-speed, automated settings—but only with carefully controlled parameters and strict safety protocols. Understanding and compensating for these disadvantages is key to achieving strong, clean, and reliable welds.
Laser welding galvanized steel involves managing the vaporization of zinc while ensuring weld quality and minimizing defects. Shielding gas selection plays a critical role in that process. Here are the gases typically used:

  • Argon: Argon is widely used in laser welding applications, including galvanized steel, because it’s inert, readily available, and helps create a stable arc and clean weld zone. It prevents oxidation of the base metal and reduces the formation of zinc oxide particles, which can interfere with weld penetration and consistency.
  • Helium: Helium offers higher thermal conductivity than argon, which allows for deeper penetration and narrower welds. It’s often used in mixed gas setups—such as argon-helium blends—when welding thicker galvanized parts or when higher energy density is needed. However, helium is more expensive and not always necessary for routine applications.
  • Argon-CO2 Mixtures: While argon-CO2 mixtures are common in traditional MIG welding of galvanized steel, they are generally not used in laser welding. CO2 introduces reactive elements that can increase spatter and promote oxidation, leading to more defects in the weld seam.
  • Nitrogen: Nitrogen can be used in some cases where cost is a concern and oxidation isn’t a critical factor. However, with galvanized coatings, nitrogen may interact with the zinc or steel surface and cause porosity or nitriding effects. It’s typically avoided unless specifically tested for the material system.

Argon remains the standard shielding gas for laser welding galvanized steel due to its inert behavior and effectiveness at stabilizing the weld area. Helium may be blended in when higher energy transfer is needed, but reactive gases like CO2 or nitrogen are generally avoided unless their effects are well-understood and acceptable for the application.
Yes, the zinc coating on galvanized steel does affect the laser absorption rate, and understanding this impact is essential for successful laser welding.

  • Zinc Reflectivity and Laser Interaction: Zinc is a highly reflective metal, particularly in the near-infrared wavelengths commonly used by fiber lasers. When a laser hits the surface of galvanized steel, a significant portion of the energy is reflected off the zinc layer rather than absorbed into the base steel. This reduced absorption makes it more difficult to establish a stable weld pool and can hinder penetration, especially at lower power settings.
  • Thermal Behavior of Zinc: Zinc also has a much lower melting point (around 419℃) and boiling point (around 907℃) than steel. During welding, the zinc layer heats up and vaporizes well before the underlying steel melts. This rapid vaporization can:
  1. Disrupt the formation of the weld by introducing turbulence into the molten pool.
  2. Create porosity or cracks due to trapped gas escaping violently through the weld.
  3. Complicated energy transfer, leading to inconsistent fusion.
  • Why This Matters for Laser Welding: The mismatch between the thermal and optical properties of zinc and steel means that:
  1. Laser power must often be increased or focused precisely to penetrate the coating and reach the steel substrate.
  2. Shielding gas and joint design may need to be adjusted to accommodate zinc vapor expansion and reduce weld defects.
  3. Some manufacturers mechanically or chemically remove the zinc layer in the weld zone before welding, especially in critical applications.

The presence of zinc makes the laser welding process more complex by lowering energy absorption, increasing reflectivity, and generating volatile byproducts. Proper parameter control, pre-treatment, and ventilation are essential to overcome these challenges and produce high-quality welds on galvanized steel.
Laser welding galvanized steel presents unique challenges due to the presence of the zinc coating, but with proper equipment and settings, it’s possible to achieve solid welds across a range of thicknesses. The maximum weldable thickness largely depends on the power of the laser being used. Here’s how different laser power levels generally correspond to weldable thicknesses for galvanized steel:

  • 1000W laser: Suitable for welding galvanized steel up to 2 mm thick. At this power level, heat input must be carefully managed to avoid burn-through or excessive zinc vaporization.
  • 1500W laser: Can typically weld up to 3 mm thick material. Still relatively low power, but capable of producing clean welds with proper speed and shielding gas.
  • 2000W laser: Also effective up to 3 mm, although it allows for faster welding speeds and better penetration consistency than 1500W.
  • 3000W laser: Supports welding galvanized steel up to 4 mm thick. More power improves stability and reduces sensitivity to surface coatings.
  • 6000W laser: Capable of welding up to 6 mm thick. This level of power offers high penetration depth and better fusion across coated surfaces, provided vapor escape is managed properly.

Welding thicker sections of galvanized steel requires not just higher laser power but also attention to joint design, ventilation for zinc vapor, and sometimes pre-treatment (like coating removal) to avoid porosity or weld defects. Consistent results depend on balancing energy input, focus control, and gas shielding, especially when working near the upper limits of the machine’s capacity.
Laser welding galvanized steel introduces a challenge: the zinc coating on the surface vaporizes under high heat and reacts with oxygen to form zinc oxide, which can cause porosity, spatter, and poor weld integrity. To reduce the formation of zinc oxide during welding, the right shielding gas and flow rate play a critical role.

  • Shielding Gas Selection
  1. Argon is the most commonly used shielding gas for laser welding galvanized steel. It is inert, displaces oxygen effectively, and doesn’t react with the molten pool.
  2. Argon-Helium mixtures (such as 75% Ar / 25% He) can be used to improve arc stability and penetration, especially in thicker sections or high-speed welding.
  3. Nitrogen is sometimes used as a cost-effective alternative, but it is generally less effective than argon in preventing zinc oxide.
  • Recommended Flow Rate
  1. For handheld laser welding, a typical argon flow rate is 10–15 liters per minute (L/min). This range balances oxygen displacement without disrupting the molten pool.
  2. For automatic or robotic systems, the flow may range from 15–25 L/min, depending on the nozzle design, weld speed, and environmental conditions.
  • Other Considerations
  1. Ensure proper nozzle angle and distance to keep the shielding gas focused on the weld pool.
  2. Use dual shielding or trailing gas nozzles when welding long seams to maintain protection as the zinc vapor escapes.
  3. Keep the work area ventilated to safely remove residual fumes and excess zinc vapor that the shielding gas doesn’t contain.

Using high-purity argon at a consistent flow rate and directing it correctly at the weld area is essential to minimizing zinc oxide formation and ensuring clean, reliable laser welds on galvanized steel.
Laser welding galvanized steel is challenging due to the zinc layer, which vaporizes at a lower temperature than steel. This can cause gas entrapment, porosity, and cracking in the weld. However, there are reliable techniques to minimize these problems and improve joint quality.

  • Remove or Minimize Zinc in the Weld Area: The most direct way to reduce porosity is to remove the zinc coating near the weld zone. Mechanical grinding, sanding, or chemical stripping (e.g., using hydrochloric acid) can expose clean steel underneath. A 5-10 mm clearance on each side of the joint line is usually sufficient. This step helps prevent zinc vapor from disturbing the weld pool.
  • Adjust Laser Parameters for Controlled Heat Input: Use moderate laser power with fast travel speed to reduce excessive heat buildup. Set the focus slightly below the surface to stabilize the weld pool and reduce keyhole collapse. Avoid excessive penetration that could trap vaporized zinc beneath the surface layer.
  • Optimize Shielding Gas Type and Flow: Argon or an argon-helium mix helps maintain a stable arc and protect the weld from oxidation. A flow rate between 15-20 L/min is typical, but this may vary based on joint configuration and laser head design. Direct the gas nozzle at a 30-45° angle to sweep away vapor and prevent zinc buildup near the weld.
  • Joint Design for Gas Venting: In lap joints or T-joints, add ventilation paths (e.g., small notches or holes) to allow zinc vapor to escape. Without proper venting, vapor can become trapped and cause blowholes or microcracks.
  • Preheating for Thicker Sections: For thicker galvanized sheets, preheat to 150–200℃ to reduce the thermal gradient and slow solidification. This allows trapped gases more time to escape and helps avoid hot cracking.
  • Use Filler Wire If Needed: Although laser welding is typically autogenous (no filler), adding a compatible filler wire can help bridge gaps, dilute the zinc concentration, and improve ductility at the joint.
  • Post-Weld Cleaning and Testing: After welding, visually inspect the weld for surface porosity. Use ultrasonic or dye-penetrant testing for internal defects. Clean the weld area to remove any remaining zinc oxides or slag to prevent corrosion.

Reducing porosity and cracking in laser welding of galvanized steel relies on a combination of zinc removal, optimized process parameters, good shielding, and smart joint design. These steps can help produce strong, reliable welds even in zinc-coated materials.
Laser welding galvanized steel produces significant smoke due to the zinc coating, which vaporizes at a much lower temperature than the steel beneath. When zinc turns to gas, it creates dense white fumes—mostly zinc oxide—that can obscure the weld area, affect weld quality, and pose health risks. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies to reduce smoke during the process.

  • Remove the Zinc Coating from the Weld Area: One of the most effective methods to minimize smoke is pre-cleaning the steel. Mechanically grinding or chemically stripping the zinc layer along the joint—typically 5 to 10 mm wide—dramatically reduces vapor generation. This not only cuts down smoke but also reduces porosity and cracking.
  • Use High-Efficiency Fume Extraction Systems: Install localized fume extraction units near the welding head. These systems pull zinc oxide fumes away before they accumulate, improving visibility and safety. The extractor should have a high capture velocity and include HEPA or activated carbon filters to trap metal particulates.
  • Optimize Shielding Gas Flow: Use argon or argon-helium mixtures at a controlled flow rate (typically 15–20 L/min) to help displace vaporized zinc and reduce oxidation. Proper nozzle angle and distance can also assist in fume dispersal and stabilize the weld pool.
  • Fine-Tune Laser Parameters: Reduce the heat input by increasing travel speed and adjusting laser power. Lower power settings (without under-penetration) and fast welding speeds reduce the amount of zinc that vaporizes. Controlled energy input minimizes the chance of excessive plume formation.
  • Weld in a Ventilated, Negative-Pressure Environment: Welding in a booth or enclosure with negative pressure and directional airflow ensures fumes are pulled away from the operator and the weld zone. This also reduces recirculation of smoke into the workspace.
  • Use Pulsed Laser Mode (if applicable): If your laser allows it, switch to pulsed mode rather than continuous wave (CW). Pulsed welding provides brief cooling periods that can limit zinc vaporization spikes and help control fume bursts.
  • Position Weld Joint Designs to Vent Gas: In lap joints, gaps can trap zinc vapor and amplify smoke when it bursts out. Modify joint geometry to allow vapor escape—for instance, by including vent holes or spacing sheets slightly to release trapped gases gradually.

Reducing smoke while laser welding galvanized steel is about controlling the source—zinc—and managing its vapor. Proper pre-weld cleaning, ventilation, gas shielding, and laser settings go a long way in keeping the process clean, safe, and efficient.

Get Galvanized Steel Welding Solutions

Achieve superior, high-quality welds with our galvanized steel laser welding machines, specifically designed to handle the challenges of welding galvanized steel. The zinc coating on galvanized steel can cause complications such as excessive spatter and poor weld penetration, but our advanced laser welding technology provides precise heat control, ensuring clean, strong welds with minimal distortion.
These machines excel in maintaining the integrity of both the steel and the coating, reducing the risk of oxidation and preventing damage to the galvanized surface. Whether you’re working on automotive parts, construction materials, or industrial components, our galvanized steel welding machines deliver exceptional results with high-speed performance and low post-weld cleaning.
With adjustable parameters and automated features, these machines offer flexibility for a wide range of applications, from small-scale repairs to large-scale production. Designed for efficiency and reliability, our solutions provide you with the precision and durability needed to complete your galvanized steel welding projects with ease.
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