When choosing a laser welding solution, understanding the differences between QCW (Quasi Continuous Wave) laser welding machines and continuous fiber laser welding machines is essential. Both have their own strengths, working principles, and application scenarios. Let’s break down their distinctions to help you choose the right technology for your production needs.
1. Working Mode and Laser Characteristics
| Characteristics | QCW Laser Welding Machine | Continuous Fiber Laser Welding Machine |
|---|---|---|
| Working Mode | Quasi-continuous pulse output | True continuous output |
| Laser Output | High-energy pulses with millisecond pulse widths; intermittent output | Stable and uninterrupted laser beam |
| Peak Power | Extremely high (up to 10 times the average power) | Stable, consistent with rated power |
| Heat Input Control | Precise control through pulse regulation | Depends on scanning speed or power regulation |
✅ Key takeaway: QCW delivers short, powerful bursts for precision; continuous fiber offers a stable beam for long welds.
2. Processing Capability Comparison
| Capability | QCW | Continuous Fiber Laser Welding Machine |
|---|---|---|
| Material Adaptability | Excellent for high-reflective materials like copper and aluminum | Requires higher power or optimized processes for reflective materials |
| Heat-Affected Zone | Extremely small due to pulse gaps | Larger due to continuous heat accumulation |
| Deep Penetration Welding | Achievable via high peak power pulses | Requires >6kW models for deep welds |
| Precision | Ideal for micro-welding of electronic components, thin foils | Better for continuous welding of medium/thick plates |
3. Typical Application Scenarios
| Scenario | QCW Advantage | Continuous Fiber Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| High-reflective materials welding | Copper/aluminum pole tabs in power batteries, copper radiators | Requires swing head or blue light composite process |
| Thin plate & precision welding | Medical needles, sensor sealing | Automotive exhaust pipes, kitchenware |
| Deep fusion welding | Ceramic substrate metallization, deep hole spot welding | Ship thick plate splicing with multi-kilowatt power |
| Thermosensitive materials | Silicon wafers, OLED flexible screens (low thermal damage) | Needs strict parameter control to avoid damage |
4. Equipment Cost and Efficiency
| Dimension | QCW | Continuous Fiber |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Cost | Higher (for the same average power) | Lower for medium and low power models |
| Operation Efficiency | Great for spot/seam welding but slow for long welds | High-speed continuous welding (e.g. automotive production lines) |
| Energy Consumption | High during pulses but generally controllable | High during continuous high-power operation |
5. Differences in Technical Principles
Uses modulated pump sources to release high peak power within millisecond pulse widths. For example, a QCW laser with 200W average power can reach up to 2kW peak power, enabling deep welds with minimal average heat input.
Continuous Fiber Laser Pump sources work continuously, producing a stable output (e.g. 1kW, 6kW). The beam quality (M²≈1.0) is superior to traditional YAG lasers, ideal for long, uniform welds on medium-thick materials.
Continuous Fiber Laser Pump sources work continuously, producing a stable output (e.g. 1kW, 6kW). The beam quality (M²≈1.0) is superior to traditional YAG lasers, ideal for long, uniform welds on medium-thick materials.
Selection Recommendations
Choose QCW Laser Welding if you:
- Work with highly reflective metals (copper, gold, aluminum)
- Need a minimal heat-affected zone (electronics, precision parts)
- Require deep fusion welding on a limited budget
Uses modulated pump sources to release high peak power within millisecond pulse widths. For example, a QCW laser with 200W average power can reach up to 2kW peak power, enabling deep welds with minimal average heat input.
Continuous Fiber Laser Pump sources work continuously, producing a stable output (e.g. 1kW, 6kW). The beam quality (M²≈1.0) is superior to traditional YAG lasers, ideal for long, uniform welds on medium-thick materials.
- Work with highly reflective metals (copper, gold, aluminum)
- Need a minimal heat-affected zone (electronics, precision parts)
- Require deep fusion welding on a limited budget
Choose Continuous Fiber Laser Welding if you:
- Weld long seams at high speed (automotive parts)
- Join medium-thick carbon steel or stainless steel (>2mm)
- Pursue high production capacity (24/7 operation)
Typical Case Example: In new energy battery production,
Choosing between QCW and continuous fiber laser welding machines depends on your material type, precision requirements, and production goals. Some high-end equipment integrates dual QCW + continuous modes, offering unmatched flexibility for modern manufacturing lines.
Post time: Jul-25-2025
