New trends in laser within the process chain of hotforming production.

The laser is an established tool in the process chain to produce hot stamped components. While the cutting is the most wide spread application, there are a variety of other laser applications which help to be more efficient. Continuous improvements in machine/laser performance and changing part trends, ask for accessory developments to prevent bottlenecks in production. A new trend in hot forming, is the use of tailor welded blanks, to further reduce weight, or to combine different material properties. The AlSi coating on the material, needs to be eliminated in an efficient way, to assure quality standards in the strength of the welding and corrosion prevention in the welding area. (C) 2013 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. Selection and/or peer-review under responsibility of the German Scientific Laser Society (WLT e.V.)