Tungsten Electrode and Orbital Welding

The orbital welding process primarily uses the Gas Tungsten Arc Welding process. This is commonly referred to as GTAW. This process is used as the source of the electric arc that melts whatever base material is used to form the weld. In the GTAW process, an electric arc is established between a Tungsten electrode and the part to be welded. When the arc begins, an RF signal is used to ionize the insulating attributes of the gas that is used to shield. This makes it electrically semiconductive in order to pass through a tiny amount of current. A capacitor dumps current into this electrical path, and this reduces the arc voltage to a level where the power supply can provide energy for the arc.

The power supply reacts to whatever demand for power is needed and provides the machine with enough power to keep the weld consistent and the arc established. The metal to be welded is melted by the intense heat of the arc and this blends them together. One key factor in this procedure is finding the welding material. Everything does not melt and weld with the same efficiency, so it is important to find the right materials necessary for the job.

The robotic, thermal, stability, and corrosion resistance prerequisites of the application will dictate the material chosen. Most complex applications will need a significant amount of testing to ensure the long term suitability of the chosen material. This makes the most sense from a functionality and cost standpoint. Most of the stainless steels have a high degree of weld ability. If you are looking for these types of products for your company, then it is important to learn more about the GTAW process and the materials needed to be successful when you are working with orbital welding.