Arc sensor system for narrow gap GMA welding with a strip electrode and magnetic deflection of the arc

摘要

The fundamentals of a system for narrow gap GMA welding for thick-walled components are portrayed. A strip electrode (4 mm × 0.5 mm) was utilised as the filler material. The current transfer was carried out as forced contacting. A suitable "welding sword" for the strip feed as well as for the welding current, shielding gas and cooling water supply was developed and fabricated for this purpose. A guide system based on the principle of the arc sensor was to be adapted for the precise guiding of the welding sword in the narrow gap. The deflection of the arc needed for this sensor was initiated electromagnetically. In the welding tests, it was possible to investigate the influences of alternating and constant magnetic fields on the arc in the narrow gap. A concluding narrow gap weld could be executed successfully.