Manual and laser soldering
Introduction to jewellery soldering
At SMV Thailand, we have mastered the art of welding, whether by hand or laser, to create quality jewellery.
Manual welding, carried out by our craftsmen, enables meticulous, made-to-measure work, while laser welding offers precision and speed. These two techniques are essential for assembling parts with strength and finesse.
The different stages of manual and laser welding
We will work with you to define the key stages and deadlines to ensure the success of the development process.
1. Preparation of components
Manual welding The parts are cleaned and prepared by hand. This process can include the removal of oxidation and impurities using traditional tools.
Laser welding The parts are also cleaned, but preparation can be more precise using specialist equipment to ensure that the surfaces are perfectly ready for welding.
Laser welding The parts are also cleaned, but preparation can be more precise using specialist equipment to ensure that the surfaces are perfectly ready for welding.
2. Alignment and fixing
Manual welding The parts are positioned and held in place using clamps and hand tools. Alignment is crucial and may require careful adjustment.
Laser welding The parts are clamped using precision fixtures, often in a dedicated machine. Alignment is often automated, offering precision.
Laser welding The parts are clamped using precision fixtures, often in a dedicated machine. Alignment is often automated, offering precision.
3. Applying heat
Manual welding Heat is applied manually using a torch or flame.
Laser welding The laser provides localised, controlled heat with a high degree of precision.
Laser welding The laser provides localised, controlled heat with a high degree of precision.
4. Melting and welding
Manual welding The filler metal is melted manually and applied to the joints of the parts.
Laser welding The laser melts the filler metal in a targeted manner, creating a precise, clean weld.
Laser welding The laser melts the filler metal in a targeted manner, creating a precise, clean weld.
5. Cooling and cleaning
Manual welding The parts cool naturally after welding, then are cleaned to remove residues and oxidation.
Laser welding Cooling is generally more uniform. Parts are inspected to check the quality of the weld before cleaning.
Laser welding Cooling is generally more uniform. Parts are inspected to check the quality of the weld before cleaning.
6. Finish
Manual welding Polishing and finishing: Polishing and finishing are carried out manually to smooth the weld seams. This can take time and precision to achieve an even surface.
Laser welding The finish is often faster and more precise, with cleaner weld seams. Final polishing is generally easier to achieve.
Laser welding The finish is often faster and more precise, with cleaner weld seams. Final polishing is generally easier to achieve.
3 advantages of welding
Precision
Jewellery and laser welding offer unrivalled precision, enabling delicate, invisible welds to be made on even the thinnest parts.
Durability
This technique ensures strong, durable solder joints, prolonging the life of the jewellery and ensuring it stands up to everyday wear and tear.
Security
Laser welding reduces the risk of damage to precious stones and delicate metals, as it does not involve direct contact and limits the heat zone.
Your questions about manual and laser welding
What does welding involve?
Jewellery and laser welding is a welding technique that uses a laser beam to assemble or repair metal parts with precision.
We have devoted an article to laser welding in our glossary!
What are the advantages of laser welding over traditional welding?
Laser welding offers superior precision, enhanced durability, and minimizes the risk of damage to delicate stones and metals.
What types of metal can be welded with a laser?
Laser welding can be used on a variety of metals, including gold, silver, platinum, palladium and alloys.
What tools are used for jewellery and laser welding?
The craftsmen use high-precision laser machines, as well as specialised supports and tools to position and hold the parts in place.
How long does the laser welding process take?
The time required for laser welding depends on the complexity of the job, but it is generally faster than traditional welding methods.
SMV Thailand offers precise welding for your jewellery
At SMV Thailand, we have mastered this technology to guarantee invisible, long-lasting welds, ensuring the beauty and longevity of each piece of jewellery.
To discover our other expertise and see how we can turn your ideas into exceptional jewellery, visit our other expertise pages.
