Cochin Shipyard and SFO Technologies develop country's first indigenous laser arc welding technology

According to a report by The Hindu, Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) and Kochi-based SFO Technologies Private Limited have jointly introduced the country's first indigenously designed and manufactured Hybrid Laser Arc Welding (HLAW) technology.

This significant announcement was made during the inauguration of the Advanced Laser Engineering Centre and HLAW R&D facility at Nest Hi-Tech Park in Kalamseri. The facility was inaugurated by CSL Chairman and Managing Director Jose V.J. and SFO Technologies Chairman and Managing Director N. Jengir.

The HLAW system, jointly developed by CSL and SFO Technologies, incorporates laser welding, traditional arc welding, robotics, and advanced automation. A high-power fibre laser source, developed indigenously by SFO Technologies, is used throughout this entire process.

According to the developers, this technology will increase welding speed, provide deep penetration, reduce distortion, and improve welding consistency. This technology is expected to be used to increase productivity in strategic manufacturing sectors such as shipbuilding, defence, heavy engineering, railways, energy, and large tanks and wagons.