Process Operational Guide for Narrow-Gap Improved Electroslag Welding: ProceduralInformation on Narrow-Gap Improved Electroslag Welding

摘要

The document 'Process Operational Guide for Narrow-Gap Improved ElectroslagWelding' is prepared for welders, operators, inspectors, and supervisors involved in fabrication of bridge components using Narrow-Gap Improved Electroslag Welding (NGI ESW). The document contains technical information needed for understanding and using the NGI ESW procedure and is based on FHWA Report No. FHWA/RD-87/026, other FHWA and OGI reports, and best industrial ESW practice. The document provides the descriptions of standard and NGI ESW processes, discusses the role of welding variables, the main factors affecting cost of ESW, residual stresses and distortion, imperfections and their causes, inspection and nondestructive test methods, repair, and safety in NGI ESW. The document is designed to benefit not only state DOTs and steel bridge fabricators, but also inspection agencies, manufacturers of welding consumables and equipment, steel mills, and other heavy fabricators.