Wire and gas savings, spatter and fume reduction, heat reduction, and better quality are all advantages to investing in a pulsed MIG welding machine. Initial costs of purchasing a pulsed MIG welding machine will be quickly compensated for through the amount the machine will save you over time.
- Some of the latest technology power sources on the market today are those that provide pulsing capabilities. Most likely, you have heard how these sophisticated machines make welding easier for the operator and provide a high quality weld.
- Wire and gas savings. Pulsed MIG machines offer a wider operating range because they extend the low and high range of each wire diameter.
- Spatter and fume reduction. Compared to Conventional MIG, Pulsing offers reduced spatter and fume. Reduction in spatter translates into significant cost savings because more of the melted wire is applied to the weld joint, not as surface spatter on the product and surrounding fixtures.
- Heat reduction. Pulsing offers controlled heat input leading to less distortion and improved overall quality and appearance which means fewer production problems.
- Improved productivity. Pulsed MIG offers high deposition rates. In addition, since the new machines are simpler and adaptive, it is easier to weld with pulsed MIG than other transfer methods, less time is spent training.
- Better quality. All these advantages of Pulsed MIG outlined above result in overall better quality of the finished and a more stable arc. In addition, operators are receiving a better quality working environment since they are not dealing with fume, spatter and extra clean-up or grinding time.
- What is Pulsed MIG? In simple terms, pulsed MIG is a non-contact transfer method between the electrode and the weld puddle. This means that at no time does the electrode ever touch the puddle. This is accomplished through high-speed manipulation of the electrical output of the welding machine.
- How does pulsed MIG compare to other welding transfer modes?
- Short Circuit, the wire touches the work piece and shorts to itself. This is the coldest form of welding that still offers good fusion. Short circuit allows operators to weld on both thick and thin material in all positions. It also has the benefit of a small, quickly solidifying puddle. Its disadvantages include limited wire feed speed, and deposition rates.
- Globular transfer mode is basically uncontrolled short circuit. It is characterized by a large volume of weld metal coming off the electrode.
- Spray Arc propels small molten droplet of the electrode to the work. It is a pure CV process that must produce enough current to send a constant stream of metal off the electrode.
- Pulsed MIG is an advanced form of welding that takes the best of all the other forms of transfer while minimizing or eliminating their disadvantages. Unlike short circuit, pulsed MIG does not create spatter or run the risk of cold lapping.
- Equipment Selection: Pulsed MIG welding has evolved quite a bit since it was first introduced to the marketplace. In the 1980s, it was a highly complex process that could only be performed by the most skilled welders.
- Set-up for Pulsed MIG machines is a little different than Conventional MIG machines. Take care to ensure that the appropriate guidelines are followed for safe operation.
- Cost savings, better quality, improved productivity and easier operation…all these factors make Pulsed MIG an option that should not be overlooked.
To read the original article please click:
http://www.lincolnelectric.com/knowledge/articles/content/pulsedmig.asp |
Article Details