 Energy beam welding methods , namely laser beam welding and electron beam welding , are relatively new processes that have become quite popular in high production applications . The two processes are quite similar , differing most notably in their source of power . Laser beam welding employs a highly focused laser beam , while electron beam welding is done in a vacuum and uses an electron beam . Both have a very high energy density , making deep weld penetration possible and minimizing the size of the weld area . Both processes are extremely fast , and are easily automated , making them highly productive . The primary disadvantages are their very high equipment costs ( though these are decreasing ) and a susceptibility to thermal cracking . Developments in this area include laser @-@ hybrid welding , which uses principles from both laser beam welding and arc welding for even better weld properties , laser cladding , and x @-@ ray welding . 
