What is needed for argon arc welding

Argon welding - technology and operating modes of equipment

Argon arc welding is one of the methods of joining complex metals: copper, aluminum, titanium, bronze, stainless steel, etc. Argon arc welding is carried out in an inert gas environment, which practically does not interact with the metal part in the combustion zone and reliably protects the seam from contact with air . Gas is also needed to ensure that the arc burns stably and to ionize the air space.

Argon arc technology

Argon welding technology is based on the principle of electric arc impact on metal using shielding gas. As already noted, argon is an inert gas. In addition, it is almost 40% heavier than air, so it displaces it from the welding zone, preventing the metal from entering into an oxidative reaction with oxygen. This is especially important for non-ferrous metals, which are highly susceptible to oxidation, as a result of which the weld will not be very reliable.

This is how a high-quality seam turns out

A special feature of the argon-arc process is the supply of argon. For different metals it should start at different times, for example:

• for welding aluminum 1 second before the start of thermal exposure;
• for welding titanium 1 second before the start of thermal exposure. Also, titanium must cool in an argon environment.

Typically, tungsten plays the role of a non-consumable electrode, which has a melting point exceeding 3000°C. When welding aluminum, the tungsten electrode must certainly cool in argon, otherwise it will oxidize and further actions with it are impossible.

Argon is sometimes used to work with ferrous metals. In this case, the welding cycle differs from working with carbon dioxide. The “argon” weld is smoother and more aesthetically pleasing; there is no point in using this gas for flow welding. If you are interested in information about working with carbon dioxide, then you can read more about this process in the article: how to properly weld semi-automatically with carbon dioxide.

Argon welding equipment

Argon arc welding can be implemented using a classic arc welding machine with additional equipment that is necessary for the correct implementation of the technology.

Classic Manual Arc Welding Machine G250i

To work you will need:

• DC power source (for working with ferrous and non-ferrous metals, as well as titanium);
• AC power source (for working with aluminum);
• oscillator for arc initiation (for working with aluminum);
• welding cycle control device;
• burner with electrode;
• gas cylinder.

For new-style inverters, the first three points can not be considered.

The filler material is supplied from the outside and is in no way connected with the electrical circuit. In this case, the welding wire should be fed as evenly as possible using slow translational movements.

Some metals, such as titanium, can be welded without filler material. The process itself is selected depending on the requirements for the seam.

To better understand the material, we recommend watching this video:

Operating modes

Depending on the complexity of the equipment, argon arc welding can be performed in manual, semi-automatic, or automatic modes.

1. Manual mode. The welder himself moves the torch and feeds the wire.
2. Semi-automatic mode. The torch remains in the hands of the welder, and the filler material is supplied using a mechanized device. Problematic option. It is better not to use this mode, because ideal materials are needed.
3. Auto mode. In this case, complex technological equipment is used, the operator of which implements the welding process through program control.

Below is a continuation of the previous video, there is a lot more useful information here:

Advantages and disadvantages of the argon arc process

One of the main advantages of this technology is the ability to join dissimilar metals.

The welding process provides excellent weld characteristics and makes it possible to maintain the penetration depth with high precision, which is especially important for processing a thin product with one-sided access to it.

The thermal treatment process creates high thermal power, which allows the cycle speed to be increased. In addition, argon welding with a tungsten electrode can be classified as the main methods of joining aluminum and titanium alloys.

Not very high productivity in manual mode is a disadvantage of the technology. At the same time, it is not always possible to make short and multidirectional seams in automatic mode. In addition, it is not very advisable to use argon for single jobs. In this case, it is better to use cheaper options, which you can read about in the article: welding mixture - composition and scope of application.

With constant use of argon arc welding technology, cylinders can be refilled at Promtekhgaz. Here you will receive high-quality gas, professional service and fair prices.

Source: http://xn--80affkvlgiu5a.xn--p1ai/svarka-argonom-tekhnologiya-i-rezhimy/

All the features of argon welding in the article and video lesson for beginners

instrument.guru > Welding > All the features of argon welding in an article and video lesson for beginners

Tig welding is a skill that can be easily acquired even without special welding skills. Lessons for beginners help you master this skill. Welding experts will help you figure out how to cook with argon. We offer you an introductory description of the process and informative video tutorials.

The ability to perform argon welding significantly saves money. Calling a specialist is an “expensive pleasure”. This will especially cost a pretty penny if you need to regularly perform welding work. Therefore, a series of video lessons will give you the opportunity to master a useful skill without much effort. First, let's look at where argon welding is used.

• Where is argon welding used?
• Argon welding basic principles of operation
• Necessary equipment for the device
• What types of welding machines are there?
• How to cook with argon correctly: expert advice

Where is argon welding used?

It is suitable for welding metals : alloy steel, aluminum, titanium. This type of welding is effective when working with alloys. For example, aluminum is very difficult to weld by other methods. And in the process of using argon gas, aluminum will be joined with a durable and beautiful seam.

The method has a number of advantages over other methods:

• A plasma flow is formed, increasing the heat and melting of the edges.
• Work is carried out both on large parts and on jewelry.
• Filler material is consumed to a minimum.
• The seams are uniform and reliable.

Argon welding basic principles of operation

If the master has experience with gas welding, then understanding argon technology will be easy. They are very similar to each other: an electric arc heats the edges of the parts connecting.

The process uses gas to suppress chemical reactions. It is fed into the bath and provides a high level of seam quality. Without an inert gas, the metal reacts with air, resulting in a weld with defects and low strength.

Necessary equipment for the device

• Welding transformer. Based on it, a homemade device can be made (voltage up to 60 V).
• Canderboard.
• Oscillator.
• Contactor.
• Flow meter.
• Timer that monitors the time of argon supply.
• Burner with air cooling regulator.
• Cylinders with protective gas - argon.
• Tungsten rods.
• Hose connecting gas cylinders and burner.
• Electrical wires connecting the network, apparatus, burner and grounding.
• Additive wire.

The main part of the apparatus design is the burner . A tungsten electrode is installed in it. For this purpose, a collet holder is provided in the design.

It perfectly attaches electrodes of different sizes, which are selected according to the type of work. The electrode protrudes above the end of the holder by 2-5 mm.

a nozzle around the burner . It performs two protective functions: it preserves the work area and protects the tungsten electrode.

Consumable and non-consumable electrodes are used. More often they are made of tungsten - this is the most non-melting material. Electrode consumption depends on the material being fused and the thickness of the workpiece. The electrode itself affects the energy consumption spent on joining the workpieces.

In order for the material to be welded, a filler material in the form of a thin thread of metal is used. filler wire should be as suitable as possible for the composition of the parts being welded. The diameter of the wire is also taken into account. For beginners, special tables will help you determine the size of the filler material.

The gas should be supplied 20 seconds before the arc appears, and ends 10 seconds later.

An additional device - an oscillator - changes the appearance of the electric arc, makes it more stable and, accordingly, facilitates the welding process. It produces current pulses at high frequency.

For beginners, this improvement will allow you to make welds faster and better. How to assemble the device and connect it to get started is discussed in detail in the videos. For an example, watch the video of titanium welding with argon given at the end of the article.

What types of welding machines are there?

1. Manual argon arc welding. A non-consumable electrode (RAD) is used for it. The name speaks for itself. The material for the additive and the machine are in the hands of the welder. The welding arc is removed from the torch, the button is pressed and the supply of argon begins.

   With the other hand, the welder introduces filler material into the area affected by the arc. This type of work is easy to learn. Using the example of the video “argon welding of aluminum” you can understand how easy this type of work is.

2. Automatic argon welding. It uses a non-consumable electrode (AMA).

3. Automatic argon arc welding using a consumable type electrode (AADP).

How to cook with argon correctly: expert advice

When buying a personal device, pay attention to the markings . The designation “TIG” indicates that the device works with tungsten electrodes. This type of device is suitable for beginners.

It is better for novice welders to start welding parts or structures made of homogeneous material with argon. When he already has some experience, the welder can experiment with the manufacture of parts from non-ferrous metals.

Argon arc welding on a specially prepared video to talk about the main stages of work for beginners. It highlights the stages of the welding process:

1. Preparatory. How and with what to process the workpieces so that the seams are smooth and reliable. At this stage, a grinding machine and chemicals are used.
2. A mass is attached to the parts to be connected. Each part size has its own methods for attaching mass. And again, special tables and videos about argon welding come to the rescue.
3. First, gas is supplied, and then an electric arc is created.
4. The distance from the welding machine to the workpieces should be up to 2 mm. The result is a narrow and reliable seam.
5. The filler material is fed into the welding zone using smooth movements. Metal should not splash.
6. Movement of the torch and filler material is done only along the seam. Transverse movements damage the workpieces and make the seam weak and of poor quality.
7. The filler wire is fed in front of the burner. They need to be held at an angle. This feed is the most convenient to get a high-quality seam.

The ability to join two parts made of complex alloys is a useful skill that can be useful in a variety of situations. It is not difficult to master this skill; watching a number of lessons and a little training will allow you to begin to actively use it in everyday life. After training, a beginner will be able to make products even from aluminum and titanium .

Source: https://instrument.guru/svarochnye/vse-osobennosti-svarki-argonom-v-state-i-video-urok-dlya-nachinayushhih.html

What is needed for argon arc welding

Argon is a gas often used in welding. It is colorless and odorless and has excellent protective properties. The main advantage of argon is its low price. For this reason, argon is used not only in factory production conditions, but also in home welding. Argon can only be purchased in steel cylinders. Manufacturers offer different volumes; you can buy both compact 15 liters and large 40 liters.

In addition, argon does not emit toxic fumes and is not explosive. Argon is often used in arc, plasma and laser welding. For argon arc welding, consumable or non-consumable electrodes are additionally used. In this material we have collected for you all the most useful articles about argon welding. They will help you with your training.

Advantages and features of argon welding

Argon welding has its advantages and features, like any other welding technology. In this article we talked about all the nuances: from setting the welding mode to all the pros and cons of this technology.

Read on to understand the essence of argon arc welding and avoid making mistakes.

This article is essentially a short excursion into the topic of argon welding. It is a must read if you have no idea what this technology is and what its characteristic features are.

We also tell you what equipment can be used in conjunction with argon to achieve the best results.

Features of welding aluminum with argon

Aluminum is one of the most popular metals. It is widely used in the production of everything: from dishes to parts in microelectronics. But despite its prevalence, not all beginners know how to weld aluminum. A feature of aluminum is an oxide film covering the entire surface of the metal. It is a major headache for beginners.

Because of this, the seam turns out sloppy and fragile.

What is an oxide film, how to get rid of it and what equipment to use to get a high-quality seam - we talk about everything in a separate article. You will also learn how to properly strike the arc and how to form a weld pool.

In short, everything you need to know to weld aluminum with argon even in a garage.

How to weld ferrous metal with argon

Ferrous metals usually include iron and its alloys. Ferrous metal is often the raw material for the production of cast iron and various steels. But there are situations when you have to cook pure iron. This is not easy to do, but using argon makes the task much easier.


However, welding ferrous metal with argon also has its pros and cons. And in any case, you need to follow technology to make the welded joint strong. We talk about all this in our article.

From the article you will also learn which welding mode to choose for welding ferrous metal and what fire safety rules must be followed to avoid accidents.

How to weld stainless steel with argon yourself

In this article we explain in detail how to cook stainless steel using argon. Stainless steel is a complex material with many nuances. That's why we've covered everything you need to know to weld stainless steel yourself. We also explained in detail how to prepare metal for welding so that the seam turns out to be of high quality and beautiful. 

You will learn about all the nuances: from optimal gas flow to the position of the torch during welding. We shared some tips that we have developed in our practice. For example, they told us how to avoid metal oxidation or how to weld thin sheets of stainless steel. You will not find such information in GOSTs

Source: https://steelfactoryrus.com/chto-nuzhno-dlya-argonodugovoy-svarki/

How to make argon welding with your own hands - Metalworker's Guide

Equipment for argon arc welding, as a rule, has a fairly high cost, since it includes special hoses, a torch, tungsten electrodes, and an inert gas supply unit. In addition, the price of an inverter with MMA+TIG mode is quite high.

If there is no long-term need for such equipment, but you need to do a one-time job, then it is quite possible to assemble a kit for argon welding with your own hands from scrap materials.

We will tell you what is needed for this, what parts and tools are needed, and how you can save on the purchase of expensive components.

What components does the equipment for argon arc welding consist of?

Before assembling your own kit for argon welding with your own hands, you need to familiarize yourself with the operating principle of factory-made equipment. It should be noted that welding in an inert environment often involves the use of gas mixtures due to the high cost of pure argon and increased consumption when welding parts of large thickness.

These circumstances dictate the use of two cylinders, one of which contains inert gas and the other carbon dioxide. Accordingly, in this case, it is necessary to use a double set of gearboxes and pressure gauges, which will have to be purchased along with cylinders of the required capacity.

You need to know that the supply of pulses from the oscillator, which contribute to the rapid ignition of the arc with virtually no contact between the electrode and the parts being welded, must occur with a delay relative to the supply of shielding gas. This is necessary so that welding occurs without oxidation of the future seam in an aggressive air environment. To ensure this process, pulse delay circuit

Basically, equipment for welding in an inert environment consists of the following components:

1. a power source, which can be a welding transformer or an inverter, which allows you to switch polarity during operation;
2. a set of cylinders and reducers with pressure gauges for supplying a gas mixture;
3. connecting hoses, with the ability to supply control pulses, welding current and inert gas to the melting zone, equipped with a Euro connector;
4. a torch with a tungsten electrode mounting unit and a nozzle for supplying shielding gas to the weld pool;
5. a welding oscillator built into the power source and a high-voltage pulse delay circuit.

The percentage of components of the gas mixture depends on the type of metals and is selected using reference tables. They may contain argon, helium and carbon dioxide, with a total flow rate of 6 to 12 l/min.

Refractory tungsten electrodes are sharpened in a certain way, mounted in a ceramic torch holder and, if possible, protected from contamination, which significantly affects the quality of welding.

The composition of the filler wire fed manually into the melting zone should be as close as possible to the metals or their alloys being welded.

Necessary tools and components

When choosing a TIG welding kit, you need to base it on the cost you can afford. There are several options for assembling the installation with different amounts of money spent.

In one case, you can assemble an installation from ready-made parts at a low cost, and in this option you will need a simple inverter power supply with the ability to operate in DC and AC welding modes.

You also need a set of hoses with a factory torch and an oscillator for simplified ignition of the arc. In addition, you should consider purchasing a current delay circuit.

In other options, you will need to make all the elements of the kit yourself, which will certainly be cheaper, but will be less reliable and will require significant time spent on assembling and configuring the equipment. In both options, purchasing gas cylinders, reducers and pressure gauges is absolutely necessary.

To assemble new equipment, you will need a housing in which you can secure structural elements, an effective cooling system and a contact group, so the following tools and equipment will be needed for work:

• powerful fan for cooling radiators of power semiconductor elements;
• electric drill or screwdriver with drills;
• angle grinder and hacksaw for metal;
• sandpaper, files;
• pliers, screwdrivers, wrenches;
• ruler, caliper and micrometer;
• fastening material or thread cutting device;
• textolite of different thicknesses, including foil;
• powerful soldering iron, transformer and connecting wires of appropriate length and diameter;
• multimeter, oscilloscope;
• radio components and semiconductor elements.

The basis of the kit is a power supply, which can be assembled from a transformer suitable for the parameters and a diode rectifier with a capacitive filter that provides an open circuit voltage from 45 to 60 V and an output current of at least 120 A.

The cooling fan, delay circuit, and high-voltage oscillator also need to be powered.

It is not practical to assemble an inverter circuit for a welding machine, since this work requires experience in setting up the final product and selecting the ratings of radio components.

Do-it-yourself assembly and configuration of the device

To create a power supply, a power transformer with a power of more than 1 kW is used, the primary winding is wound with a wire with a diameter of 0.72-0.9 mm from 320 to 410 turns. Recommended values ​​for a secondary winding made of a copper busbar are 15-25 mm2 with a number of turns from 10 to 12 with individual selection for the required current and voltage parameters.

In addition to the power supply, it is necessary to ensure correct operation of the oscillator, which should produce an output voltage ranging from 2500 to 6000 V with a frequency from 200 to 500 kHz. It is these parameters that make it possible to ionize the space between the tungsten electrode and the workpiece in order to facilitate the ignition of a short circuit arc.

With a method such as argon welding, hoses are needed to supply gas to the welding zone connected to a cable for supplying welding current and a control signal from the button to the delay circuit and the gas valve.

But the most difficult thing is to make a torch with your own hands, since it is necessary to place a control button, a collet clamp of a tungsten electrode with a connected welding cable with a diameter of 6 mm in one housing.

In addition, it is necessary to secure the fixation unit for the ceramic gas nozzle, so if possible, it is better to purchase a factory-made burner along with cylinders, pressure gauges and a reducer.

The sequence of setting up the equipment is to check the operation of the oscillator, delay circuit, gas valve and welding parameters of the power supply. The sequence of welding work consists of performing the following operations, namely:

• valves set the required concentration of the gas mixture and set the flow rate from 6 to 12 l/min using pressure gauges, depending on the welding current and the thickness of the workpieces;
• a tungsten electrode is attached to the collet clamp, which protrudes no more than 4 mm from the cut of the gas nozzle, while the arc should be no more than 2.5-4 mm;
• the workpieces are fixed to avoid shifting relative to each other during operation;
• the wire is selected and the inverter is turned on, while the oscillator pulse should be supplied with a delay of 1-2 seconds relative to the opening of the gas valve;
• After the formation of a stable arc and a weld pool, the filler wire is manually fed into the weld zone.

Results

We looked at the composition of a set of equipment for argon welding and its capabilities. An experienced person is quite capable of assembling such equipment with his own hands, but if possible, it is better to buy ready-made blocks and use them to make a working device. This may be a more expensive option, but it will provide better quality and save a lot of personal time.

Sergey Odintsov

Source: https://ssk2121.com/kak-sdelat-argonovuyu-svarku-svoimi-rukami/

How to connect an argon torch to a welding inverter?

Equipment for argon arc welding, as a rule, has a fairly high cost, since it includes special hoses, a torch, tungsten electrodes, and an inert gas supply unit. In addition, the price of an inverter with MMA+TIG mode is quite high.

If there is no long-term need for such equipment, but you need to do a one-time job, then it is quite possible to assemble a kit for argon welding with your own hands from scrap materials.

We will tell you what is needed for this, what parts and tools are needed, and how you can save on the purchase of expensive components.

Welding in argon

If conventional welding is not suitable, electric arc welding or argon welding is used. What is its purpose, application features, basic technology, required welding equipment, advantages and disadvantages? The article will be of interest to anyone interested in welding stainless steels and non-ferrous metals.

What is argon welding and what is it used for?

Electric arc welding in a shielded gas environment is used when it is necessary to isolate the process from interaction with atmospheric air. The most popular and effective is the inert gas argon. The process using it is called argon arc welding or, in common parlance, argon welding.

It is used for welding products made of aluminum, titanium, copper, stainless steels - metals and alloys that actively oxidize or contain elements that are actively oxidized by atmospheric oxygen.

Why is argon used - its comparison with helium

Argon, as already mentioned, is an inert gas. It does not react chemically with anything, which is especially important at temperatures above a thousand degrees Celsius in the welding zone.

Another inert gas, helium, has a similar property. It costs much more than argon, so it is used only in special cases. Argon has a specific gravity 38% greater than air. Due to this, it well insulates the welding site and protects it from oxidation.

Helium under similar conditions requires the supply of gas under high pressure to the high-temperature zone and, accordingly, a higher consumption of protective gas.

Due to the different ionization potential, the voltage of an argon arc is lower than that of a helium arc. Its heat generation is less, which means the penetration zone is smaller and the cross-section of the weld is smaller. Unlike helium welding, argon welding forms a long and narrow finger-shaped seam. At the gas-liquid interface, argon has a higher surface tension. As a result, the seam bead is higher with sharp transitions from the base metal to the seam.

Features of the weld seam in argon arc welding

The greater the angle between the surface of the base metal and the weld, the greater the stress concentration in the welding zone. If the joint has sufficiently high requirements for equal strength, it is necessary to grind off the seam bead after welding

With the correct choice of electrode material or additive, welding mode and method of protection, the weld metal is usually softer than the base metal due to a smaller amount of impurities. To ensure strength, it is required that the “soft” zone be as narrow as possible. Welding is more difficult to perform technologically, but avoids the need to strengthen structural elements at the joint.

There are two main technologies used for argon arc welding: TIG welding and MIG welding.

TIG – non-consumable electrode welding

The arc burns between a refractory tungsten electrode and the workpiece. The filler metal rod is fed into the welding zone manually.

The non-consumable electrode welding process has its own characteristics. It is better to ignite the welding arc with straight polarity, when the electrode is the cathode. It is given a sharp sharpening at an angle of 45 - 55 degrees.

This is necessary to obtain a narrower welding arc and narrow the penetration area. The narrower the zone you need to get, the sharper the sharpening should be. It is not recommended to light an arc on the metal being welded, so as not to melt or contaminate the tip of the electrode.

It is better to perform this operation on an auxiliary carbon (graphite) plate.

The polarity of the process should be selected depending on the metal of the parts being welded:

• Stainless steels are better welded with straight polarity.
• Aluminum and its alloys - on reverse or more often on alternating current. This is due to the fact that when the cathode is a part, refractory oxide films formed on the surface of aluminum are better removed from the welding zone. But when the cathode is a part, instability of the emission spot appears because the combustion zone of the welding arc moves to the cold area. Therefore, not just alternating welding current is needed, but high-voltage pulses during periods when the cathode is located on the part.

The welding torch with a tungsten electrode is held at an angle of about 80° to the seam, back to the direction of movement. Filler rod - in front perpendicular to the electrode.

There must be a gap between the parts being welded. The exception is when the parts lie on a copper or steel substrate. Argon is supplied through a nozzle surrounding the welding electrode.

Unlike the usual zigzag or crescent movements made by a coated electrode, tungsten is carried out in a straight line, without deviating from the seam line. This is necessary so that the area of ​​molten metal does not leave the zone protected by argon. The speed of the welding process should not be high so that argon has time to penetrate through the gap between the parts being joined to the back side of the weld.

It is important to maintain a stable distance between the electrode and the workpiece. This is necessary for constant voltage and heat generation of the welding arc. The size of the penetration area, the shape and quality of the weld directly depend on this.

The process must begin 10 - 15 seconds after the supply of argon, so that the molten metal is guaranteed to be protected from interaction with atmospheric oxygen.

At the end of the process, the welding current should be reduced gradually to avoid the appearance of a crater at the end of the seam.

After the arc goes out, argon must be supplied for another 10–15 seconds until the metal cools below the temperature of active oxidation. If possible, it is better to finish the welding process outside the parts being welded.

Vertical sutures are applied from bottom to top. The nozzle is positioned obliquely to the seam so that the argon jet is directed upward. The filler rod is located above the nozzle. If possible, protective screens should be provided to contain the argon gas at the welding site.

There is automatic welding with a non-consumable electrode. In this embodiment, the filler metal wire is fed into the welding zone automatically, and the arc between the tungsten electrode and the workpiece is ignited by applying a high voltage pulse.

MIG – semi-automatic argon arc welding with consumable electrode

Instead of a tungsten electrode, welding wire is fed through the torch.

In automatic mode, before igniting the welding arc, argon is supplied similar to the process with a non-consumable electrode. Next, voltage is applied to the wire, and the wire itself moves to the area where the seam begins. Contact occurs, the wire heats up, its end breaks off and is energized, and an arc is ignited. The arc length can be adjusted automatically or by self-regulation. Welding is carried out in similar modes.

At the end of the seam, the voltage supply gradually stops, the arc goes out, leaving no crater. After 10–15 seconds, the argon supply stops.

In semi-automatic mode, it is recommended to light the arc outside the welding zone on the auxiliary part, and then move the arc to the beginning of the seam. If this is not possible, first purge the torch with argon and then a live wire into the protected area.

In both cases, the argon arc process requires a room protected from drafts so that the gas protection of the molten metal is not compromised. 

To ensure the argon arc welding process, a certain set of welding equipment is required:

• This is a current source capable of supplying direct, alternating and pulsed voltage.
• Device for feeding welding wire.
• Burner with nozzle for supplying protective gas.
• Argon cylinder with gas reducer to reduce pressure.

Before starting the process, parts in the welding zone must be cleaned of dirt and, if possible, oxide films. Upon completion - from metal splashes. For this purpose, the equipment includes a metal brush.

Advantages and disadvantages of argon arc welding

The advantages include the ability to weld metals that lose their properties when the molten zone comes into contact with atmospheric oxygen. Stainless chromium-nickel steels lose their protective alloys in the weld area. Aluminum catches fire or becomes covered with a hard oxide film, making the seam impossible to make tight and durable. Similar problems arise when welding titanium, copper and other active metals and alloys.

Argon arc - has a relatively low heat release, the penetration zone is narrow, so the parts being welded do not warp.

With the correct selection of the welding mode, the molten metal does not splash, and the seam is neat.

Argon is cheaper than other inert gases, has a specific gravity greater than air, as a result of which it reliably protects the welding area when the seam is located at the bottom.

Flaws 

1. Among the disadvantages, the complexity of the process should be noted. Increased requirements for personnel qualifications.
2. The list of advantages mentioned the small width of the penetration zone. This is also a disadvantage that technologically complicates the process.
3. Specialized power sources capable of operating in pulse mode and supplying increased voltage to ignite the arc without contact between the electrode and the workpiece.
4. It is difficult or impossible to apply ceiling welds, since argon is heavier than air and sinks down, exposing the protected area. For high-quality ceiling joints, it is better to use more expensive helium.
5. Relatively high surface tension at the metal-gas interface, leading to stress concentration and the need in some cases to treat the seam after welding.

In general, argon arc welding produces a high-quality and durable connection.

Source: https://stroyvolga.ru/%D1%81%D0%B2%D0%B0%D1%80%D0%BA%D0%B0-%D0%B2-%D0%B0%D1%80%D0 %B3%D0%BE%D0%BD%D0%B5/

Argon welding

In recent years, argon welding has become one of the most popular methods of joining metal.

If we consider those options when it is necessary to weld non-ferrous metals, products for critical objects, pipes and other complex products, argon welding becomes almost irreplaceable.

Despite its complexity of application, high cost of consumables and special requirements for the experience of the specialist performing this work, it gives a very high-quality result. This is much more important for critical structures and mechanisms.

This technology is based on the use of arc welding with a non-consumable electrode and welding wire, which is carried out under the protection of argon.

Argon welding process

Argon is an inert gas that does not interact with the metal of the workpiece or wire, and also does not react with gases from the surrounding atmosphere. During combustion, it creates a protective shell for the weld pool, which does not allow external factors to harm it in any way. To carry out the process, you also need to carry out a number of preliminary preparatory procedures. But they are not as time-consuming and complex as when working with manual arc welding.

Application area

Every year, argon welding acquires an increasingly wider range of areas of use.

Initially, this was a complex and expensive process, which was in demand in large-scale construction, where welding was carried out at critical sites, and everything was also used to create reliable connections at any production enterprises where it was necessary to install metal structures for various mechanisms.

Now the choice of technology for carrying it out has become wider. This simplifies the application, since modern versions of the devices are safer, and sometimes even less expensive than before.

Nowadays, argon welding is used in many branches of the repair industry. When repairing cars, bicycles, agricultural machinery and other types of products that use complex parts made of non-ferrous metals and their alloys.

In construction, this technology still retains its popularity and demand. The use of gas shielded welding in other areas is increasing as it becomes more accessible.

Almost all areas where there are no problems with indoor gas pollution can use this technology.

Advantages

Argon welding is currently one of the most developing techniques. This trend is created due to the set of advantages that it has:

• High reliability of the resulting connection, in comparison with other welding methods;
• Minimal exposure to external factors, as argon creates excellent protection against the penetration of foreign elements;
• The materials and the technique itself are accessible to craftsmen;
• The absence of coating protects against the possibility of hydrogen penetration, as well as from its entry into the weld pool in the form of inclusions;
• Here you don’t need to clean everything too thoroughly during preparation, since here the gas does not allow extraneous factors to greatly influence the condition of the bath.

Source: https://svarkaipayka.ru/tehnologia/termicheskaya/svarka-argonom.html

Argon welding for beginners: instructions, features, rules, pros and cons

Argon is a gas that is often used in welding. It is completely colorless, odorless and protects the metal from the bad influence of the atmosphere.

the reason why it is so widely used in welding is its low price, because other protective gases sometimes have lower prices, craftsmen simply do not buy them, which reduces the quality of the seam.

Introduction

The use of argon is so widespread that it is used not only in factories and industries, but even at home, craftsmen have learned to use it, although working with gas is often unsafe and there is nothing good about it being in the garages of ordinary people, but this is not the same The argon option is completely safe; it does not explode. This gas is sold only in steel cylinders.

They come in different sizes, the manufacturer offers volumes from fifteen to forty liters, so if you have to brew a meter of land once a year, then you can just buy a small cylinder and it will last you for a very long time.

Another advantage of argon in terms of safety is that it is not explosive and also does not emit toxins when working with it, and this is important because if we are talking about home use, then there may be unqualified people or even children near the cylinder.

The most common areas of application are in arc, laser and plasma welding. If this is welding using an arc, then an electrode should be included with the gas; it can be with a melting or non-melting coating.

In our article we have made an extract from the main articles on this topic. If you find them interesting, you can read them in the full version.

Advantages and characteristics of welding with argon

Of course, argon welding has its advantages and characteristics, keeping up with all other types and technologies for welding metals.

This article will tell you about all the good and bad sides of argon welding, as well as some of the subtleties of working with such gas, and even about how to set up your welding machine so that the weld turns out to be of high quality.

This information is very useful to read; it will help you navigate the principles of argon and avoid mistakes. And this is important for beginners, or people who have not yet tried to work with this type of welding.

This article is very basic, it is highly recommended reading if you know nothing at all about argon cooking.

It will open the curtain for you on the processes that take place during this type of cooking and why this happens in principle. This article should be the first on your reading list, because without it you will not be able to navigate other articles.

She also describes a variety of equipment for this type of work so that your result is satisfactory, because it is obvious that if a person has never worked with this type of cooking, he does not know what consumables are needed for this.

How to weld aluminum with argon

Aluminum is one of those metals that everyone has on their tongue, even a child knows that aluminum is a metal.

This metal is used in industrial enterprises; dishes and even elements for microelectronics are made from it, and this is a very specialized niche.

BUT even such wide popularity of this metal did not ensure that everyone knew how to handle it. In most cases, a beginner will not know which way to approach a metal such as aluminum.

The reason why seams on such metal often turn out weak and not beautiful is the oxide film that covers the metal.

It is because of this that working with one of the most common metals is so painstaking and not easy. We will tell you more about the oxide film in another article, since this is a very broad and painful topic.

Another article will tell you about igniting and maintaining arc stability and the formation of a weld pool. This article will give you all the necessary information on how to cook aluminum using argon even in the wild.

Features of welding ferrous metal with argon

Ferrous metals are classically considered to be iron and its alloys. Such metals rarely act independently; more often they are taken as raw materials, produced, for example, cast iron, or used for processing for steel production.

Rarely, but sometimes situations arise when you need to deal with pure iron.

This is a very difficult task, but this gas makes it a lot easier. Like any method, argon welding has advantages and disadvantages. And if you need to get a passable result, you will have to strictly adhere to the technology.

This article talks about all this, it will also talk about how to choose a welding mode, what safety rules should be followed, and in particular fire safety. Because welding is not a simple matter and unsafe situations often arise.

Welding stainless steel with argon

This article will tell you how to weld stainless steel using all the nuances and features. Those who are involved in welding know that stainless steel is far from being a simple metal, when working with which many problems often arise, you need to cut, digest, and sometimes you don’t even have to cut, the seams themselves crack and come apart, but how to deal with this?

That is why you should read our article where we will tell you how to cook stainless steel with your own hands using argon.

An important stage of welding is the preparation of the metal, the quality of the weld depends on this, what you get in the end, the metal must be thoroughly cleaned and checked for defects.

This article describes how to most advantageously use gas to the burner position. Here you will find tips that the masters have honed during practice, and you will no longer have to repeat someone else’s mistakes.

Just take and adopt the experience of a person who already knows how good it will be and how bad it will be. For example, how to cook metal with argon so that it does not oxidize, or how to cook thin metal, because this is filigree work that requires care.

Even GOSTs do not write such advice, although you can find very informative operating instructions there that will help both beginners and experienced welders.

Bottom line

If you need your seams to be reliable and neat, without having to re-sew a hundred times, or spend a lot of money on expensive consumables, then you need to read these articles.

They tell you all the nuances of welding with argon, a variety of metals that are quite difficult to work with. If you work with stainless steel or aluminum, then these nuances are many times greater than when working with other metals.

You need to try hard to ensure that your seams are strong, beautiful, without sagging or welding. Read all the pros and cons of welding with this gas that we have given and evaluate whether it is worth using it, but most often this metal justifies itself.

If you are an experienced craftsman, then write what you think about this, whether you had to work with argon, whether it made your work easier, or perhaps even vice versa.

Tell us about gas consumption, it will be very useful for entrepreneurs who make money by welding. Your experience will be useful to us for future articles and to beginners who are just learning. We wish you good luck and new successful works!

Source: https://prosvarku.info/tehnika-svarki/argonnaya-svarka-dlya-nachinayushchih

Welding lessons: How to set up a argon arc machine for TIG welding?

Previously, we talked about how to select an electrode, gas and other consumables. In this article we will continue to consider the welding process, or more precisely, working with a tig argon arc machine. For convenience, we will immediately highlight the issues that will be addressed in this material:

For clarity, we use specific models and blanks. We will weld stainless steel, and the tig machine will be the reliable and easy-to-use FUBAG INTIG 200 DC Pulse. In addition to the main functions, the equipment has a pulse welding function.

As for consumables, the example shown uses an argon cylinder, WL 20 electrodes (for direct current) and filler rod.

Preparing the argon arc apparatus for operation

All components are at hand. Putting it all together:

1. We install the reducer on the gas cylinder

2. Connect the gas hose to the reducer

3. Connect the bayonet connector of the torch to the negative connector

4. Connect the control cable to the five-pin connector on the front panel

5. Lastly, connect the ground cable to the positive connector.

The device is almost ready for use, now let’s move on to assembling the tig burner:

1. Install the collet holder first

2. Carefully insert the collet into it

3. Screw the shank (not all the way)

4. Install the ceramic nozzle

5. Insert the tungsten electrode

6. Adjust the electrode extension

7. Tighten the shank thoroughly.

Once everything is done, we set the gas flow depending on the location and nozzle diameter. For a nozzle with a diameter of 10 mm, a gas flow rate of 10 l/min is quite suitable.

Attention! In addition to the apparatus itself and the burner, the workpieces also require preparation. By cleaning them from rust, oxide film and other contaminants, you will take care of the quality of welding. For degreasing, you can use acetone, white spirit or another solvent. The filler rod is also sanded and degreased.

Setting up a tig machine from A to Z

Almost all metals are welded with straight polarity (minus on the electrode). The only exception is welding of aluminum and its alloys. A striking example of an alloy can be copper alloys with a significant aluminum content. The use of alternating current is mandatory for them.

So, let's set up FUBAG INTIG 200 DC Pulse:

1. On the control panel we set the welding method - TIG.

2. Set the gas pre-purge to 0.5 seconds.

3. We set the ignition current - 25% of the operating current (A).

4. We fix the rise time to the operating current - 0.2-1.0 seconds.

5. Set the welding current (A) (see table below)

6. We set the time until the crater filling current (decay in seconds)

7. Select the value of the crater filling current in amperes

8. The last parameter will be the gas purging time after welding (sec)

The parameters that relate to crater welding are selected depending on the thickness of the metal.

This table provides general recommendations for selecting welding current for the most commonly used metals and thicknesses. This will help you get your bearings as you prepare to get started.

Table. Setting up an argon arc apparatus depending on the type of metal and thickness

Type of metal	Metal thickness, mm	Type of current	Current ¸A
Steel alloys	1,0	DC	20 — 30
1,5	DC	40 — 60
2,0	DC	70 -90
3,0	DC	100 — 120
4, 0	DC	120 — 140
Aluminum	1-2	A.C.	20 — 60
4-6	A.C.	120-180
6-10	A.C.	220-230
11-15	A.C.	280-360

Why is monitoring current strength more important than other parameters? During TIG welding, you can burn through the workpiece by setting too high a current. A low value will not allow the metal to melt, which will negate all attempts to weld the part.

Correct starting and welding with a TIG torch

The parameters are set and it's time to start. Owners of this welding machine model have two options:

1. Use contact ignition

2. Use the high frequency ignition function

The latter will prevent metal burning in case of incorrectly set parameters when setting up the argon arc welding machine. It will protect the metal from tungsten inclusions and allow you to independently control the distance to the part from the moment you start working.

And now the most important thing is how to operate the burner correctly? Most experienced welders weld from right to left. During the process without filler material, the electrode should be positioned almost perpendicular to the surface to be welded. If filler material is present, then it is enough to maintain a small angle (15-20 degrees).

Attention! To prevent the weld metal from oxidizing, it is necessary to ensure that the end of the filler rod is constantly in the protective gas zone.

The welding process is completed by filling the crater. Crater welding is the final section of the weld seam, the length of which is reduced to zero. From the point of view of the quality of the welded joint, it is necessary to exclude the formation of a crater in the final part of the weld. For this purpose, the device provides a smooth current reduction mode.

To illustrate all of the above, experts have prepared a special video:

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Source: https://fubag.ru/tips/uroki-svarki-kak-nastroit-argonodugovoy-apparat-dlya-tig-svarki/

Homemade argon welding - Working Equipment

When working with non-ferrous metals and their alloys at home, do-it-yourself argon welding is one of the most suitable ways to join metal workpieces.

The desire to independently manufacture a device intended for argon welding is explained by the high cost of industrial equipment, which contains many different components. To this should be added the high price of the inverter itself, which allows welding with argon in a wide variety of modes.

Device and principle of operation

In cases where only one-time home operations are expected, it is preferable to assemble a machine for argon arc welding with your own hands. The implementation of this idea will be facilitated by an approach that uses ready-made blocks that are part of a number of household devices, as well as suitable materials at hand.

Before you start assembling the device with your own hands, it is advisable to study its operating principle and structure.

When equipping an argon welding machine, you must proceed from the fact that for work in an inert environment, in order to save money, not pure argon is used, but its mixture with carbon dioxide.

The consequence of this is the need for several gas cylinders. However, you can also purchase a ready-made mixture in one cylinder, which will simplify argon welding.

The output current generation circuit used in the inverter module is also of great importance. It guarantees a high quality arc without oxidation of the seam.

Based on these conditions, a complete set of equipment for working in an argon environment must contain such mandatory components as:

• a welding current source, which can be any pulse inverter of suitable power with the ability to change polarity;
• a set of several cylinders equipped with reducers and pressure sensors that supply a mixture of gases to the argon welding zone;
• connecting hoses with built-in electrical wires and gas channels, allowing all necessary components to be delivered to the welding site and equipped with a specially shaped connector;
• gas burner with a nozzle and a special holder that allows you to fix a non-consumable electrode;
• An oscillator built into the power supply module with a current pulse delay circuit.

When assembling an argon welding machine with your own hands step by step, you must prepare the hoses and also worry about the reliability of the electrical connections of the supply cables.

What you will need for assembly

The necessary tools and components, without which it will be impossible to assemble an argon welding machine with your own hands, must be selected according to the list:

• a fan of a given power sufficient to cool several radiators;
• electric drill with a set of drills;
• screwdriver, grinder;
• a hacksaw and a set of screwdrivers;
• soldering iron with a power of at least 40 watts;
• connecting conductors;
• electronic measuring instruments (multimeter and single-beam oscilloscope);
• complete set of radio components.

In addition, you will need sandpaper of various grain sizes and several plates of textolite (plain and foil). To the list of auxiliary tools you need to add a special device for cutting threads and several clamps such as clamps.

When preparing a list of necessary materials and components for an argon welding machine, you should proceed from your financial capabilities.

Execution options

There are several approaches to making an argon welding machine yourself, differing in different levels of material costs. The cheapest option involves the use of ready-made modules and spare parts.

This approach allows us to obtain a simple-to-execute design of an inverter unit that can cook with both direct and alternating current.

In addition to this, you will need a set of hoses assembled with a factory torch and a special unit (oscillator), which greatly facilitates ignition of the arc. And finally, you will need to worry about purchasing a ready-made current supply delay unit.

The second approach to implementing an argon welding project is to make all the prefabricated modules and electronic boards yourself, which somewhat reduces the total costs. However, in this case, the performer will need high professionalism, as well as a sufficient supply of free time.

Regardless of the chosen assembly method, when making an inverter for argon welding with your own hands, you will need a housing in which all structural elements will be placed.

Before collecting spare parts and components, you should carefully study the electrical diagram of the future device and draw up a clear plan for connecting the electronic units.

Variants of schematic diagrams of a welding machine with an oscillator

The basis for a kit for argon welding is always a standard power supply, assembled on the basis of a transformer converter and a diode bridge with capacitive filter elements at the output.

With their help, a reduced voltage is generated (from 45 to 60 Volts), which, after pulse conversion in the inverter, is rectified again and provides the required amount of welding current at the output.

Making an inverter module yourself is fraught with great professional difficulties. The easiest way is to use a ready-made pulse unit from a household appliance with suitable characteristics after it has been modified and reconfigured.

Assembly and performance testing

For the manufacture of an input converter for argon welding, a power transformer designed for an operating power of about 1 kilowatt and providing the required voltage reduction ratio may be suitable.

In addition, you should worry about purchasing an oscillator that produces an output voltage with an amplitude of two and a half to six thousand volts and an operating frequency of about 200-500 kilohertz. The specified parameters are selected so that air ionization occurs in the gap between the electrode and the workpiece, which significantly facilitates ignition of the arc.

Setting up the assembled argon welding device consists of checking the functioning of its individual components, including the oscillator, pulse converter and power supply. Testing of the operation of the main components of the unit is usually carried out in welding mode, that is, in real conditions. To do this, you will need to follow the following operating procedures.

Firstly, through the valves the required concentration of the gas mixture is set, determined by the value of the welding current and the parameters of the workpieces being fused.

Then a tungsten electrode is inserted into the holder clamp, through which an arc no larger than 2.5-4 mm in size is ignited.

To avoid displacement, the parts to be fused are securely fixed on the work table, after which the argon welding machine is turned on, the current pulse from which is supplied with a slight delay relative to the gas supply. And finally, after ignition of a full arc and formation of a weld pool, a pre-prepared filler wire is supplied to this place manually.

We must not forget that when checking the functionality of the assembled device, it is necessary to use a special protective mask, gloves made of thick fabric and special clothing . You should be guided by the fire and electrical safety requirements that regulate the procedure for welding work.

In conclusion, it should be noted that only a specialist with extensive experience in such operations can assemble a structure for argon welding with his own hands. However, a competent approach to the selection of ready-made blocks for the future device will facilitate the upcoming work, and also reduce the possible risks of self-assembly.

Source: https://rabtehnika.ru/samodelnaya-argonovaya-svarka.html

What is needed for argon welding

» Articles » What is needed for argon welding

The heart of argon welding is the non-consumable tungsten electrode. Tungsten is a very refractory metal, so it is used as a material for the manufacture of non-consumable electrodes.

Around the welding electrode there is a ceramic nozzle from which the inert gas argon comes out during the welding process. If you start welding a part without argon, it will burn, crack and begin to crust over, which is very undesirable when welding.

Argon protects the welding process from oxygen entering the weld pool.

The welding process works like this. First, mass begins to be supplied to the part being welded, which is very similar to electric welding. The welder holds the torch in his right hand and the filler wire in his left hand.

If you need to weld aluminum, then aluminum wire from the appropriate alloys is used. There is a button on the burner, then current is applied and the gas supply begins.

An electric arc occurs between the tip of the non-consumable electrode and the part to be welded, which allows welding to be carried out.

For welding aluminum, this welding method is the best option, because it is a very capricious material. For example, upon contact with oxygen and when heated, it becomes covered with a thin film. Argon has a set of chemical properties that allow it to exclude oxygen from the weld pool. This happens because argon is able to push aside oxygen with its pressure. Argon welding using high-quality welding machines is often used when repairing cars.

This type of welding is often used when repairing engine blocks and oil pans. In addition to car repair, argon welding is used in shipbuilding, food and petrochemical industries.

In other words, argon welding replaces other types of welding, and also allows you to weld metals such as aluminum. The high quality of argon welding allows for complete repairs of many expensive parts on cars.

At first glance, it may seem that welding with argon welding is not difficult. It is worth noting that this opinion is erroneous. To carry out argon welding, you need an experienced welder, as well as a reliable welding machine that has a high productivity of the welding process.

In order to become a professional in working with an argon welding machine, it takes more time than in the case of a conventional welder. Professionals also know that welding with argon must be done very carefully, sometimes even with pinpoint precision.

Undoubtedly, such work will definitely be beneficial, and the product will delight you with a good welding seam.

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Argon welding - technology and operating modes of equipment

Argon arc welding is one of the methods of joining complex metals: copper, aluminum, titanium, bronze, stainless steel, etc. Argon arc welding is carried out in an inert gas environment, which practically does not interact with the metal part in the combustion zone and reliably protects the seam from contact with air . Gas is also needed to ensure that the arc burns stably and to ionize the air space.

Instructions for welding aluminum with argon for beginners

Many years of practice convincingly prove that welding aluminum with argon is the most effective way to create a permanent connection between two or more elements.

To perform welding work in an environment of any inert gas, specialized equipment, equipment and detailed instructions for beginners are required.

The apparatus for joining aluminum parts, as a rule, has a complex structure.

 If you weld aluminum with a semi-automatic machine, you will need a certain type of welding wire and an argon cylinder. But there are ways that allow you to do without gas.

Aluminum welding technology requires the welder to be highly qualified and have knowledge of the basics of metal science.

Special properties of aluminum

Beginner welders definitely need step-by-step instructions for welding aluminum.

First of all, they must become familiar with the chemical properties of the “winged metal”.

This is what aluminum is called for its strength and low specific gravity. At the same time with these qualities, it has high chemical activity.

In open air, the metal quickly reacts with oxygen and becomes covered with an oxide film.

The melting point of the oxide film exceeds +2000 degrees, when the metal itself melts at a temperature of +650 degrees.

When welding with direct current, oxide can be immersed in the metal of the weld, thereby disrupting its structure.

Source: https://samsvar.ru/stati/chto-nuzhno-dlya-svarki-argonom.html