How to Remove Rust Using a Handheld Laser Welding Machine – Step-by-Step Guide

Handheld laser welding machines are well-known for welding stainless steel, carbon steel, aluminum, and other metals. But many users don’t realize that the same equipment can also be used for laser rust removal (also known as laser cleaning) simply by switching operation mode and adjusting the welding head.

Laser rust removal is becoming increasingly popular because it is fast, environmentally friendly, and highly effective without damaging the base metal. With a fiber laser cleaning mode, you can quickly remove rust, oxide layers, oil, and paint while maintaining excellent surface quality.

In this article, we’ll explain how to convert your handheld laser welding machine into a laser rust-cleaning tool, and guide you step-by-step on how to operate it safely and correctly.

Why Use a Handheld Laser Welder for Rust Removal?

Compared to traditional methods such as grinding wheels, sandblasting, and chemical cleaning, laser cleaning offers several advantages:

Non-contact cleaning — no abrasive damage to the material surface

No consumables — no sand, no chemicals, no pollution

High cleaning accuracy — easy to control cleaning width and depth

Fast and highly efficient

Simple to operate — even beginners can use after short training

This makes it ideal for industries like metal fabrication, auto repair, shipbuilding, petrochemical, and equipment maintenance.

Steps for Laser Rust Removal Using a Handheld Laser Welding Machine

Before starting, remove certain welding accessories so the laser beam can be fully exposed and suitable for cleaning operations.

Step 1: Remove the Wire Feeder Tube

Since rust cleaning doesn’t require wire feeding, remove the wire feeding tube from the welding head.

Keeping the wire tube installed will obstruct the beam path and interfere with cleaning efficiency.

Step 2: Remove the Stainless Steel Nozzle and Front Locking Nut

Detach the stainless steel front tube and the large locking nut, as well as the collet (chuck) inside the nozzle.

These parts are necessary for welding wire but will block the laser output for rust cleaning. Removing them ensures the laser beam can expand to the proper cleaning spot size.

Step 3: Enter Cleaning Mode in the Operating System

Once the front accessories are removed, access the system interface and:

1.Select “Cleaning Mode”

2.Restart the machine

3.Adjust laser power to maximum

4.Set the scan width according to cleaning surface requirements

5.Test the spot on scrap material to confirm the cleaning width and effect

After setup, you can start laser cleaning confidently and efficiently.

Best Practices for Better Cleaning Results

TIP: For large area rust, use wider scanning. For precision work, reduce spot size and lower movement speed.

Safety Precautions

Always wear certified laser protection glasses

Ensure work area has ventilation and smoke extraction

Avoid reflecting surfaces to prevent beam bounce-back

Keep bystanders away from cleaning area

Using a handheld laser welding machine for rust removal is a smart way to increase your equipment’s versatility. With only a few simple adjustments—removing welding accessories and switching to cleaning mode—you can transform your machine into a powerful laser cleaning tool capable of restoring metal parts quickly and safely.

If you’re looking for a multi-functional laser solution that supports welding, cutting, and cleaning, handheld fiber laser systems are a high-value choice for industrial metal processing.

Want to know more about laser cleaning machines or handheld welding systems?

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