What Weld Penetration Can You Expect from a 1000W vs. 3000W Laser Welding Machine?

When evaluating a laser welding machine for industrial use, one of the most practical questions buyers ask is: “How deep can it weld?” The answer depends not only on laser power but also on material type, joint design, and process parameters. For clarity, let’s focus on a common benchmark: bead-on-plate welding of SUS304 stainless steel under standard conditions.

A 1000W laser welding machine typically achieves a penetration depth of around 2 mm in SUS304. This is sufficient for many thin-sheet applications such as enclosures, medical devices, or battery components where minimal heat input and clean seams are priorities.

Moving up to a 3000W laser welding machine, penetration increases—but not linearly. Under comparable settings (e.g., 1–2 m/min travel speed, proper shielding gas, and focused beam), you can expect about 3 mm of consistent, full-penetration weld depth in the same SUS304 material. The extra power allows for better tolerance to fit-up gaps and faster processing speeds, which is valuable in high-throughput environments like automotive or appliance manufacturing.

It’s important to note that doubling or tripling laser power doesn’t double weld depth. Penetration is influenced more by energy density and interaction time than raw wattage alone. Beam quality (BPP), focal spot size, and welding technique (e.g., keyhole vs. conduction mode) play equally critical roles.

For buyers comparing systems, don’t just look at peak power ratings. Ask for real-world weld cross-sections on your specific material and thickness. A well-tuned 1000W laser welding machine may outperform a poorly optimized 3000W unit if the application doesn’t require deeper penetration.

In summary, 1000W suits precision work up to 2 mm, while 3000W offers reliable performance up to 3 mm in SUS304—provided the entire optical and motion system is properly matched to the task. Always validate with sample trials before making a decision.