Abstract: A process and apparatus is provided for laser welding a nickel and/or cobalt based superalloy article comprising: preheating the entire weld area and adjacent region to a ductile temperature with an induction heat coil and maintaining such temperature during welding and solidification of the weld; and welding the preheated article utilizing a laser with a powder alloy feed with a control means controlling the laser, power feed and motion system on which the article is fixtured, wherein the control means includes a vision system which digitizes the weld area providing a path for the laser welding to follow.