Increased power density plasma arc welding

Increased power density plasma arc welding: The effect of an added radial gas flow around the arc root

Vredeveldt, H.L.

Richardson, I.M. (mentor)
Hermans, M.J.M. (mentor)

Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering

Technische Materiaalwetenschappen

2014-07-23

Additional constriction of the arc in plasma arc welding has been investigated. By additionally constricting the arc, the power density at the work piece can be increased. If successful, it is hoped that this increase will approach values achieved in laser beam welding at a fraction of the costs of the latter. A survey of the available literature on plasma arc welding was made. An experimental torch incorporating facilities for additional constriction was custom-designed and built. Experiments with an arc on a non-melting anode were carried out to assess the functioning of the experimental torch, explore the possibility of additional arc constriction and assess some of the changes to the arc as a result. Subsequently, preliminary keyhole welding trials were executed to determine the performance of the experimental torch under welding conditions and to obtain a first indication of the effect of additional arc constriction on a keyhole weld. Additional constriction of the arc in plasma arc welding has been proven to be possible. The power density was increased by a factor of two. Weld narrowing due to additional arc constriction was observed.

materials science
welding
plasma
arc

http://resolver.tudelft.nl/uuid:2fbe9916-ef82-4c4d-958c-c6102c3eb9c6

Student theses

master thesis

(c) 2014 Vredeveldt, H.L.