AFFORDABLE VERSATILE SENSOR FORADAPTIVE WELDING PROCESS CONTROL

摘要

The proposed sensor uses a non-transferred micro-plasma arc to obtain datarnfor seam tracking and control of weld width, reinforcement, and fill-up. Due to thernnon-transfer nature, the stiffness of the sensing arc is not affected by the geometry ofrnthe workpiece. This, together with the small diameter, improves thernaccuracy/resolution of the micro-plasma arc sensor over through-the-arc sensing. Thernseparation of the sensing arc from the welding arc eliminates the undesirablerninterference between the sensor and the welding process. The resultant independencernfrom welding processes improves its versatility. Experimental data verified therneffectiveness of the developed sensor.