Book excerpt: Hybrid laser-arc welding (HLAW) is a combination of laser welding with arc welding that overcomes many of the shortfalls of both processes. This important book gives a comprehensive account of hybrid laser-arc welding technology and applications.The first part of the book reviews the characteristics of the process, including the properties of joints produced by hybrid laser-arc welding and ways of assessing weld quality. Part two discusses applications of the process to such metals as magnesium alloys, aluminium and steel as well as the use of hybrid laser-arc welding in such sectors as ship building and the automotive industry.With its distinguished editor and international team of contributors, Hybrid laser-arc welding is a valuable source of reference for all those using this important welding technology. - Reviews arc and laser welding including both advantages and disadvantages of the hybrid laser-arc approach - Explores the characteristics of the process including the properties of joints produced by hybrid laser-arc welding and ways of assessing weld quality - Examines applications of the process including magnesium alloys, aluminium and steel with specific focus on applications in the shipbuilding and automotive industries