Sep 17, 2026
How to Use Tack Welding Before Handheld Laser Welding？
Tack welding provides a stable starting point for final welding, helping maintain joint alignment and consistent weld quality.
When two metal parts move during welding, the joint gap can change and the final weld may become uneven. Tack welding is a simple way to hold the parts in position before making the final weld.
1. Why Use Tack Welds?
Tack welds temporarily hold two parts together and help maintain the correct joint position.
They are especially useful when:
- The workpiece is long
- The joint is difficult to hold
- The parts may move during welding
- A consistent joint gap is required
2. Where Should You Place Tack Welds?
Do not place all tack welds on one side.
For a long joint, start with a tack near one end, then another near the opposite end. Add several points between them as needed.
This helps keep the joint aligned during the final welding process.
3. Keep Tack Welds Small
Large tack welds can create unnecessary heat and may affect the final weld appearance.
Use enough energy to hold the parts firmly without creating a large molten area.
If filler wire is used, make sure the tack is properly fused before continuing.
4. Check the Joint Before Final Welding
After tack welding, stop and check:
- Is the joint still aligned?
- Is the gap consistent?
- Are the tack welds firmly holding the parts?
- Is there excessive deformation?
If the parts have already moved, correct the position before starting the final weld.
5. Use a Suitable Welding Sequence
For a long joint, welding continuously from one end to the other can increase heat accumulation.
After tack welding, a suitable welding sequence can help keep the workpiece stable and reduce unwanted movement.
Quick Tip
Align → Tack → Check → Final Weld
A few well-positioned tack welds can make the final welding process much easier and more consistent.
Good positioning is the first step toward a good weld.
Use small, evenly distributed tack welds to keep the workpiece stable before final handheld laser welding.
