APPLIED PHYSICS

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SERVICES

In order to facilitate the introduction of efficient laser processing into companies, Novika offers a wide range of unique services in the field of industrial processes using high-powered lasers :

- Transfer of technology information;

- Prototype realisation;

- Assessment of the relevance of the technology within a business;

- Development and adaptation of technology;

- Implementation support: equipment selection, product optimization for the technology, start-up, training, technical support, safety and maintenance.

LASER WELDING

In its most used form, laser welding allows for materials, whether similar or not, to be joined together without the use of filler material. The energy transmitted by the laser beam fuses pieces held together by a tool. The high concentration of energy on a small surface allows for deep, shallow joints at speeds up to several tens of meters per minute, and this without almost any distortion.

Introduction to laser welding (FR)

MANUAL LASER WELDING

Combining the performance of robotized laser welding with the flexibility of manual welding, manual laser welding increases throughput by a factor of ten compared with reference processes, while reducing distortion. Used under safe conditions, this process can prove to be an ally of choice.

Manual laser welding (FR)

HYBRID WELDING

By combining a high-power laser beam to the electric arc produced by a GMAW welding torch, thick metals can be welded in one pass, without joint preparation and with minor distortion. Novika’s adaptive platform automatically readjusts the welding parameters in order to maintain the quality of joints in the presence of gaps. The two-robot hybrid welding technology allows for welding on complex or curved joints whilst minimizing necessary programming.

SURFACE HARDENING

With the help of a welding or cutting laser or a dedicated laser equipment, it is possible to harden metallic products as precisely as needed. No masking, cooling fluid or special tools required; this is a simple and fast hardening process.

CLADDING

Laser cladding uses laser beam energy to fuse a filler material (be it powder or wire) onto a metal surface, in order to repair damage to used parts, as well as to improve surface properties of new parts. The result is a strong dense metallurgical bond between base material and coating, with quality and dimensions precisely controlled and minimum dilution.

TEXTURING

Surface micro-texturing by laser ablation can be used to create patterns that improve the functional properties of industrial materials. For example, the creation of micron-sized cavities can drastically reduce the coefficient of friction and wear of parts, or increase it locally to improve adhesion or to control fluid flow. It can also drastically modify the optical characteristics (absorptivity, reflectivity), or the hydrophobic / hydrophilic character. Larger textures can also be created for aesthetic purposes. For example, a texture created by laser on the surface of a mold will allow the repetition of this texture on the surface of all parts molded using this tool.

CLEANING / STRIPPING

The laser beam evaporates or breaks down the superficial layer needed to be removed, without the use of any chemicals. The process is very clean and precise and allows for the removal of paint, oil, rust, soot or other process residues without damaging the surface needing to be cleaned. In most cases, masking is not required.

POLISHING

At the microscopic level, a rough surface is made of peaks and valleys. Scanning this surface with a laser beam produces a thin molten surface layer, which can be smoothed by redistributing the material from the peaks to the valleys. This non-contact process is approximately 30 times faster than manual polishing and can be applied to areas of very precise geometry. Depending on the technology used, laser polishing can achieve finishes of the order of 0.2 µm.

RECENT PROJECTS

HIGH-POWER LASER-MATTER INTERACTION STUDY

This exploratory study focused on the interactions between high power lasers and different materials (metals, plastic, composite materials). Funded by Defense Research and Development Canada, the measurement and analysis campaign was carried out by Novika's applied physics team. The phenomena involved have been investigated from several angles: spectroscopy (UV, VIS, IR), high-speed camera, thermal camera, pyrometer, photodetector. Tests were also carried out on laser safety protection.

Client : DRDC // Project manager : Guillaume Caron

LASER WELDING OF COMPLEX ALUMINUM COMPONENTS FOR ENERGY STORAGE

Developing complex component welding parameters for primary and secondary electrochemical generators requiring a perfect seal for the energy storage industry. Novika has tested multiple welding techniques and came up with a stable process that ensures predictable high quality results.

Client : Blue Solutions // Project manager : Lorraine Blais

SEALING PROCEDURE FOR NUCLEAR WASTE CONTAINERS USING HYBRID LASER/GMAW WELDING

Hybrid laser/GMAW welding is used to seal the next generation of nuclear waste containers in Canada. By making a 10mm deep weld in one pass, the tightness of the container and the resistance of the joint are guaranteed. This entirely automated process is perfectly suited for use in a radioactive environment.

Client : Nuclear Waste Management Organization of Canada (NWMO) // Project manager : Patrick Martel

LASER WELDING PROCESS OF HIGH END STEEL DOORS

This project allowed the development of a laser welding process for contrasting inserts on the surface of steel doors. The doors, made from galvanised steel or stainless steel, could not show any welding distortion on the visible side. Integration support for the factory was also offered. The Novika team collaborated with the robot systems integrator employed by the client in order to select equipment, provide support and start-up help and train staff. In addition, Novika provided production and maintenance support.

Client : De la Fontaine // Project manager : Lorraine Blais

LASER CLADDING OF STEEL PARTS USING A BRONZE ALLOY

Development of a laser clad using cold wire. The material used here is a bronze wire, fused onto circular steel parts. The bronze is used for its gliding and wear protection properties.

Client : LG Cloutier // Project manager : Lorraine Blais

WOOD FURNACE WITH TWO-STAGE ELECTRONIC COMBUSTION CONTROL

The Heat Commander™ is the new wood furnace from Drolet™. Among the most efficient furnaces on the market in terms of energy distribution, the Heat Commander is a central heating system that is both cutting edge and accessible thanks to its innovative design and ease of use. EPA2020 certified (less than 2.5 g/h), the Heat Commander's overall thermal output is far superior to most comparable systems. A direct result of research conducted by SBI and Novika Solutions, the Heat Commander is the very first wood furnace with two-stage electronic combustion control. The algorithm, developed by the research team, manages the air supply. The flame adjustment system is synchronized with the thermostat and ensures safe heating, increased comfort and reduced particulate emissions.

Client : SBI // Project manager : Guillaume Caron

HYBRID LASER/GMAW WELDING PROCESS FOR RAIL VEHICLES

Development of different laser welding techniques to assemble the different components of stainless steel rail vehicles. The primary objectives of this project were the aesthetics, productivity and costs, as well as the development of an adaptive laser/GMAW welding technology for thick structural steel. Reducing production costs whilst maintaining fatigue resistance and keeping distortions to a minimum were of primary concern. Novika also assisted the company with the transfer of technology and the training of its employees.

Client : Bombardier Transport // Project manager : Lorraine Blais

CCI – IE OPTIMIZATION OF SURFACE PROPERTIES OF INDUSTRIAL MATERIALS

Development of laser surface processes and transfer within companies in the areas of cladding, tempering, rust removal, marking and micro-texturing.

Client : Moules Industriels, Verbom, Ressorts Liberté, Aikawa Fiber Technology, Groupe Fordia, LaserAx, Mailhot Industries // Project managers : Lorraine Blais & Patrick Martel

TECHNICAL SUPPORT FOR LASER WELDING

Novika provided both remote and onsite technical support for the use of a laser welding system and for the development of new applications for the system. In addition, Novika provided interventions regarding the follow-up and maintenance of the equipment as well as the training of employees.

Client : Bombardier Transport // Project manager : Patrick Martel

LASER MICROMACHINING: PARAMETER PREDICTION USING AI

The aim of this project is to develop a predictive system capable of determining machining depth, roughness and time based on laser characteristics and operating parameters. The result is an optimized, result-oriented machining time.

Laser Micromachining Parameter Prediction Using AI (FR)

Clients : Various // Project manager : Christophe Arnaud