Shanghai, China – The group standard T/CWAN 0159-2026 "Energy Efficiency Limits and Grades for Handheld Laser Welding Machines", led by GW Laser Technology (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. as the primary drafting unit and approved by the China Welding Association, has been officially released. Slated to take effect on March 1, 2026, this landmark standard puts an end to the unregulated era of energy efficiency in the handheld laser welding industry, ushering in a nw chapter of high-quality and sustainable development.

01、Filling a Critical Gap: Why Handheld Laser Welders Needed an Energy Benchmark

Handheld laser welding machines are widely used across aerospace, new energy vehicles, hardware, building materials, home appliances, and furniture due to their flexibility, ease of operation, and material adaptability. However, rapid market expansion has led to significant variability in energy performance, with inefficient products contributing to excessive power consumption and operational costs.

The new standard establishes a scientific energy efficiency grading system—defining four cooling methods (air cooling, refrigerant cooling, integrated liquid cooling, and external liquid cooling) and classifying them into three efficiency grades (Grade 1 being the highest).

For example:

• Grade 3 (minimum requirement) air-cooled units must achieve at least 29% efficiency

  
  

• Grade 1 refrigerant or external liquid-cooled systems must reach 35% efficiency

It also sets strict thresholds for power factor (≥0.96 for Grade 1) and no-load current, providing manufacturers with clear technical targets and empowering users to make informed, cost-saving purchasing decisions.

02、 Driving Change: GW Laser’s Leadership and Vision

As the lead drafter, GW Laser demonstrates its commitment to technological advancement and industry responsibility. The company’s deep expertise in laser source efficiency, power management, and system integration laid the foundation for this pioneering standard.

By collaborating with key players across the industry chain, GW Laser aims to:

• Foster healthy competition and steer R&D toward greener innovation

  
  

• Help manufacturers reduce long-term operating costs and carbon footprints

  
  

• Enhance the global competitiveness of China’s laser manufacturing sector

03、Looking Ahead: Implementing the Standard for a Sustainable Future

The release of the standard is only the beginning. GW Laser calls on manufacturers, distributors, and users to actively adopt these guidelines:

• Manufacturers should strive to exceed Grade 1 requirements through continuous R&D

  
  

• Users are encouraged to prioritize energy-efficient models to cut costs and support green manufacturing

As a leader in laser technology, GW Laser remains dedicated to advancing sustainable industrial practices. Together with industry partners, the company will continue to innovate—contributing to a efficient, clean, and low-carbon future for manufacturing.