Commission IV operates like a “think tank” for scientists, engineering and technical personnel who are involved in the research, development and application of power beam processing technologies including laser, laser-hybrid and electron beam welding processes. These processes are in a continuous state of rapid development and advancement as new technologies and innovations offer a nearly unlimited array of welding, joining and processing opportunities. Technical and scientific presentations by Commission members give attention to new processes, process modelling, mechanical properties of end products and environmental health and safety. The Commission is especially active in the study of the application of power beam processes to novel and otherwise difficult-to-weld materials like high-strength steels, stainless steels, light alloys, dissimilar materials and coated products.
Together with Commission I and Commission XII and Study Group-212, the Commission works to establish more reliable welding and joining technologies with higher productivity through a deep understanding of the physical phenomena governing beam processes. In this joint group, especially the laser-based additive manufacturing process will be investigated.