LASER WELDING OF ADVANCED HIGH STRENGTH STEELS FOR AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATIONS 

University of Waterloo

The automobile assembly industry is a big part of Ontario's economic strength — accounting for a full 20 per cent of our manufacturing output.

With high gasoline prices and demands for cleaner air, one of the biggest challenges facing the industry is the need to reduce fuel consumption by reducing the weight of vehicles. In response, the industry is turning to advanced materials — such as thinner, zinc-coated, high-strength steels — in making auto bodies.

The problem is that these new materials do not always respond well to laser welding — a state-of-the art-process that's much more efficient than conventional welding. Dr. Norman Zhou of the University of Waterloo has received an Early Researcher Award to expand his research on the laser welding of advanced steels. Through a series of experiments, the project will determine which welding conditions work best and point the way to improved grades of steel.

"This study aims to improve understanding of how welding conditions affect the soundness of joints," says Dr. Zhou. "We expect the results to increase confidence in the use of advanced materials to produce lighter auto bodies with superior performance and durability. The outcome will have a real impact on the competitiveness of Ontario's automotive manufacturing industry."

Researcher: Dr. Norman Zhou