MAIN PROBLEMS IN LASER WELDING OF THIN-WALLED STRUCTURES FROM ALUMINUM AND BERYLLIUM ALLOYS (REVIEW)

The paper shows the results of analysis of current state of welding of thin-walled structures made of aluminum and beryllium alloys (so-called light alloys). Main problems and issues that may arise during laser welding of thinwalled structures from aluminum and beryllium alloys are determined. It is shown that according to the criteria of localization of heat deposition, minimization of the amount of residual deviation from the pre-defined shape and technological possibility of process implementation, a laser heat source may be widely applicable due to its possibility to form welded structures for aerospace purposes with a minimum level of residual stresses and deformations. Possible ways of eliminating problems that arise during laser welding of thin-walled aerospace structures from aluminum and beryllium alloys are proposed.