Development and qualification of a novel laser-cladding head with integrated sensors

A compact laser-cladding head with integrated sensors and coaxial powder feeding was developed and qualified for industrial applications. Different sensors were integrated in the head for monitoring the optical components and for monitoring and controlling the laser cladding process. The operating status of the dichroitic beam splitter, the protective glass and the powder-feeding nozzle could be acquired in real time. The process monitoring and control based on the infrared temperature signal were adopted in order to ensure high product quality and reproducibility. These characteristics guarantee the application of the cladding head in industrial environments and for automated production.