How to connect Argon welding - Metals and their processing

How to make an argon welding machine - Welding Profi

27.06.2019

To perform welding work with parts made of stainless steel, non-ferrous metals and alloys based on them (aluminum, copper, bronze, etc.

) it is necessary to use a special apparatus and protective gas (most often argon is used for these purposes).

Due to the high cost of equipment and professional services for performing such welding work, many people wonder whether it is possible to do argon welding with your own hands - using a homemade technical device.

Homemade argon welding machine

In order to competently manufacture a device for argon welding and use it to obtain high-quality and reliable welds, you must first understand what this technology for joining parts made of non-ferrous metals and alloy steels is. It has many similarities with both electric arc and gas welding, but differs significantly from them in its key principles.

Why is gas needed when welding?

When heated and melted, alloy steels and non-ferrous metals react with oxygen and other gases contained in the surrounding air.

As a result, a refractory oxide film is formed on the surface of such metals, and aluminum, interacting with oxygen in a molten state, can even ignite.

This negative factor leads to a significant deterioration in the quality of the weld, which becomes porous and inhomogeneous.

Diagram of the gas shielded welding process

The use of this gas, which has a greater mass than oxygen and practically does not react with other chemical elements, allows not only to displace all gaseous components of the surrounding air from the welding zone, but also to form a flow of conductive plasma in it, which contributes to more efficient and rapid melting of the edges of the parts being connected.

General scheme of argon arc welding

Argon-arc welding can be performed using different types of electrodes: non-consumable, made from tungsten, and consumable, the chemical composition of which must best match the composition of the parts being joined.

According to the degree of automation of the technological process, argon welding is divided into manual (performed using tungsten rods), automatic (both non-consumable and consumable electrodes can be used), and semi-automatic (used quite rarely and has less efficiency compared to the first two methods).

Components for a homemade argon welding machine

To make a machine for argon welding with your own hands, you will need a simple diagram (or photo) of this device, as well as a transformer and a special torch.

The internal structure of a homemade argon welding machine (click to enlarge)

The choice of transformer power is influenced by the characteristics of the parts that are planned to be welded using a homemade argon welding machine. The voltage supplied by the secondary winding should be between 65–70 V (no load).

For many beginners, an electrical diagram and recommendations for winding the windings of a homemade transformer will not be enough - this requires experience in performing such work. In such a situation, it is better to purchase a ready-made transformer, the characteristics of which correspond to working with large currents. For example, a transformer from any electric welding machine will do.

Since the electrical circuit of the argon welding machine uses constant voltage, it will be necessary to make a current rectifier. This is not difficult to do.

The most important element of the torch is the clamp (or collet) in which the tungsten rod is fixed. Such a clamp should be adapted to an electrode diameter of approximately 2–3 mm.

A copper tube with a diameter of 6 mm is soldered to the back of the clamp, through which voltage is supplied to it to power the welding arc, as well as shielding gas to the area of the joint being formed. It is very important that the solder used to connect the tube to the clamp is high temperature.

Homemade burner

The collet on the side on which the tungsten electrode is fixed in it is connected to a tube made of ceramic or quartz glass. The diameter of the latter should be in the range of 8–10 mm.

Through such a tube (its length should be approximately 5 cm) shielding gas is supplied to the welding area.

This tube, in the central part of which there is an electrode fixed in the clamp, also protects it from contact with the surface of the parts being connected.

The procedure for manufacturing a device for welding in argon

Let's figure out how to make a device for argon welding with your own hands, having all the necessary components available. First of all, a convenient holder is made, for which a tube of the appropriate diameter is used.

It is wrapped in two layers of insulating material (fiberglass), between which silicone sealant is placed. This holder is given a comfortable curved shape.

A microswitch is attached to it, which will be responsible for opening and closing the gas valve.

Accessories for making your own burner

A tube with a diameter of 6–8 mm is attached to the finished burner, through which protective gas will be supplied to it. The opposite end of such a tube is connected to a gas cylinder.

In addition, two wires are connected to the torch: one to connect the microswitch to the gas valve, the second to supply welding current to the electrode.

The cross-section of the supply wire, which will operate under serious load, must be at least 8 square millimeters.

In serial model machines for argon welding, the delay in switching off the shielding gas is provided by a special electronic device, which not only complicates the design of the equipment, but also makes it more expensive.

In homemade devices for argon welding, which are distinguished by their simple design and low cost, such a delay is ensured by manually turning off the microswitch.

Subtleties of argon welding

Argon welding technology has its own subtleties. Let's look at them.

Argon and welding current are supplied directly to the torch. The second supply wire - ground - is connected to the parts to be welded using a spring clamp.

The electric arc, due to which the edges of the parts being welded and the filler wire are melted, burns between the tungsten electrode and the surfaces of the parts being welded.

The filler wire, thanks to which the weld is formed, is fed directly into the zone of action of the electric arc.

To ensure stable arcing, the end of the tungsten electrode must be sharpened to a cone to a length equal to 2 or 3 times the diameter of the tungsten rod.

Sharpening a tungsten electrode on emery using a simple device

Since the ionization potential of argon is much higher than that of oxygen, nitrogen and metal vapors, to ignite an electric arc in its environment, a current source with an increased open circuit voltage or an additional device called an oscillator is required. Such a device, which generates current with a high frequency and increased voltage, ensures not only rapid ignition of the arc, but also its stable combustion during argon welding.

As any specialist knows, the formation of a weld when performing conventional electric arc welding is carried out due to three technological movements performed by the electrode: longitudinal (along the axis of the weld), axial (along the axis of the electrode) and transverse (perpendicular to the axis of the weld). Unlike this technology, argon welding is carried out only due to the longitudinal movement of the electrode and filler wire. No other movements are made during either manual or automated welding.

The need for strict adherence to this rule is explained as follows.

Movement along the axis of the electrode is not performed for the reason that it does not melt during the combustion of the welding arc.
Movement in the transverse direction cannot be performed due to the fact that in this case the welding area where molten metal is present will be removed from the protection of argon.

Since the electrode and filler wire do not move in the transverse direction during argon welding, the weld is narrow and neat, which can be clearly seen from the photos of such joints.

A high-quality weld is the calling card of a professional welder

When selecting filler wire for making connections using this technology, it is very important to pay attention to its chemical composition, which must correspond to the composition of the parts being welded. As mentioned above, when performing argon welding, the arc should be ignited on a carbon plate, and it should be extinguished at some distance from the parts being joined.

To ensure reliable protection of the welding zone from ambient air, it is necessary to ensure that the electrode and filler rod never leave the area of the shielding gas. To minimize splashing of molten metal from the welding zone, the filler rod is introduced into the weld pool very slowly and in smooth movements.

When performing argon welding, you must carefully monitor whether the edges of the parts being joined are well fused. This can be determined by the shape of the molten metal bath: it should be extended towards the welding, but in no case should it have the shape of an oval or circle.

Source: https://fgpip.ru/pravila-i-bezopasnost/kak-sdelat-apparat-dlya-argonovoj-svarki.html

How to make an argon welding machine

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.

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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://svaring.com/welding/apparaty/argonovaja-svarka-svoimi-rukami

How to make argon welding with your own hands from an inverter - TechnoExpert

15.04.2019

To perform welding work with parts made of stainless steel, non-ferrous metals and alloys based on them (aluminum, copper, bronze, etc.

) it is necessary to use a special apparatus and protective gas (most often argon is used for these purposes).

Homemade argon welding machine

How to make argon welding with your own hands

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:

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

Source: https://electrod.biz/vidy/argonom/sdelat-argonnuyu-svarku.html

How to connect an argon torch to a welding inverter

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.

Do-it-yourself argon welding diagram

Welding non-ferrous metals and alloys is a difficult operation even for an experienced craftsman. Anyone who has ever encountered the need to weld aluminum or titanium knows the prices for these services. Often they are so high that you have to abandon welding and buy a new part or replace the entire assembly. But most often, 80-90% of the price is not the cost of the equipment, but the payment for the services of a welder.

I don’t want to say that argon welding, which is what is used in this case, is very complex and very different from MMA welding. Yes, it is somewhat more technically complex and requires certain skills, but if you have mastered coated electrode welding, then, after a little practice, you can also weld with argon TIG welding.

A logical question is: where can I get the device? There are two ways to solve this: buy an inverter with TIG mode or remake your device. Do-it-yourself argon welding from an inverter is a completely solvable task even in a personal garage, not to mention a workshop or metalworking shop.

Features of argon welding

Welding in an argon atmosphere differs from conventional MMA in the following features:

produced with constant argon blowing;
current can be used either alternating or direct (reverse polarity);
it is necessary to use a tungsten electrode;
Only very thin sheets can be welded without filler wire;
an oscillator is required to ignite the arc;
The electrode wiring technique has certain specifics.

Let's consider all points separately. It may seem that they do not directly relate to the topic of how to make professional argon welding from a regular inverter, but knowing these subtleties, it will become easier to take into account all the features of the device and technology.

Argon welding scheme:

Why is argon needed?

This element (Ar) is part of group (18) of inert (can be seen in the periodic table) gases, which in the normal state practically do not interact with most substances, including metals, acids, salts and alkalis. In terms of prevalence in nature, it is in third place after oxygen and nitrogen, which determines its rather low price compared, for example, with helium.

Practical properties during welding are determined by its weight - it is more than twice as heavy as nitrogen and oxygen; when it appears in the weld zone, it simply displaces these gases and envelops the bath, preventing the occurrence of chemical oxidation reactions. This fact must be taken into account when welding outdoors - strong or moderate wind can deteriorate the quality of welding.

Welding current

Electric current with a voltage of 30-80 V and a force of 20-200 A - ranges used when welding non-ferrous metals in an inert atmosphere. The choice of current parameters is made according to special tables and depends on the diameter of the electrode and the thickness of the metal being welded. By choosing the right current characteristics, you can perform the most complex seams even on a homemade machine.

Electrode

A sharpened tungsten rod used as an electrode is convenient because:

it does not melt (melting temperature is above 3000 0 C, even at red heat it does not soften) at welding temperatures of non-ferrous metals;
allows you to get a very thin arc, makes it possible to form a compact seam;
evaporation of the electrode is no more than 0.01 grams per 1 m of seam.

At the same time, the industry produces such electrodes in more than 25 types; choosing the right one will not be difficult.

Filler wire

An additional material that, when welded, is melted by an electric arc and fills the seam. When hardened, it forms a monolithic compound. On particularly thin sheets, wire is practically not needed, but for welding three-dimensional parts it is necessary.

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The wire material is selected in accordance with the metal being welded: for aluminum - aluminum, for stainless steel - from alloy steel of a certain grade.

Oscillator

When welding with a direct current tungsten electrode, it is quite difficult to ignite an electric arc. If you perform this operation by touch, as when welding MMA, then the electrode may burn, the metal will melt, part of the material will be welded to the tip of the electrode, and other troubles.

An oscillator is a special device that generates a high-frequency current to supply an ignition pulse. Subsequently, it periodically generates supporting pulses that stabilize the arc and allows the welder to confidently work with both direct and alternating current.

Before you do a full-fledged argon TIG welding yourself, you need to buy an oscillator, for example UVK 7, or assemble it yourself according to one of the schemes:

But practice shows that a factory-made oscillator works much more reliably. And its price is not so high that you would spend a week searching for parts, assembling and configuring a homemade device.

Moreover, the factory oscillator is very easy to connect to almost any inverter or transformer type device - just use special connectors to hang it on the welding electrical cables. It works in parallel with the machine and does not affect the welding current, maintaining only the stability of the arc.

But when purchasing an oscillator, you should take into account that some models operate at an open circuit voltage of 40 V. If you are planning to weld at U = 28-30 V, the pulse generator may not work.

Welding technique

It has an indirect relation to the design of the device, but as background information you need to know that when TIG welding, the shortest possible arc is used - about 2 mm. The electrode is guided only in a straight line, without carrying out movements characteristic of MMA perpendicular to the direction of the seam in two planes.

This achieves two goals - the argon flow does not leave the weld pool area and does not allow it to oxidize, and it becomes possible to make a very thin weld, almost invisible on the surface of the metal.

Homemade TIG machine on an inverter

The main parts of such an installation are:

inverter with MMA welding capability;
TIG torch;
argon cylinder;
pressure gauge;
oscillator;
connecting hoses and cables.

They need to be collected in accordance with the following scheme:

After setting the current parameters, turn on the inverter, prepare the metal and start welding.

Source: https://crast.ru/instrumenty/argonnaja-svarka-svoimi-rukami-shema

How to connect an argon torch to a welding inverter - Metalworker's Guide

Noble argon serves people with golden hands! The connection of various non-ferrous metals: copper, bronze, titanium, aluminum and others cannot be done with conventional welding machines.

For work of this kind, a special type of welding is used - arc welding using argon (TIG: tungsten inert gas). The most common gas used is argon, which allows us to call this type of welding argon.

Finished equipment costs a significant amount, but if you are not afraid of difficulties and consider yourself a craftsman, argon welding with your own hands is a very real thing.

Almost anything can be welded using argon arc welding.

Operating principles of argon arc welding

Electric (arc) and gas welding, when mixed, gave us argon arc welding. An electric arc thermally affects the edges of metals, and the plasma resulting from the splitting of electrons from argon, due to its high ionization, leads to melting of the material.

Argon also serves as a protective medium for the metals being joined, protecting the seam from the entry of various impurities from the air, which makes it not only smooth, but also very durable. In addition to the high quality characteristics of the seams, the advantages of this welding include the ability to use it in any position, which is necessary when welding pipes, car parts and other high-tech products.

The ability to make seams of various configurations is an additional bonus. The disadvantage of argon arc welding is the low (compared to other types of welding) process speed.

Some subtleties

Before work, the tungsten electrode must be sharpened at a slight angle. This is done with your own hands, on a sharpening machine, constantly rotating the rod around its axis. Considering that the shape of the electrode affects the depth of welding and the quality of the seam, a pointed electrode will maximize these indicators.

Argon welding involves the use of an additive - a metal wire made of an appropriate material - to fill the weld pool. The placement of the filler wire in front of the torch, at a slight angle to the surface and a smooth, accurate feed, will ensure a narrow, even seam. If the thickness of the parts being welded is small, an additive is not necessary.

During operation, the electrode must be kept as close to the surface as possible, approximately 2 mm, for a small arc to occur. The minimum arc ensures optimal joint depth and a thin seam.

Welding requires a lot of patience

Varieties of TIG

Argon welding is carried out using consumable and non-consumable electrodes; the non-consumable electrode is made of tungsten, which is an extremely refractory material. It is used as a high temperature current conductor.

There are several types of argon welding.

Manual argon arc welding using a non-consumable electrode - RAD
Automatic argon arc welding using a non-consumable electrode - AMA
Automatic argon arc welding using a consumable electrode - AADP

Skillful hands - an alternative to costs

Purchasing ready-made equipment for argon arc welding is not the only option for owning it. This unit can be assembled with your own hands, having the necessary components:

Source: https://ssk2121.com/kak-podklyuchit-argonovuyu-gorelku-k-svarochnomu-invertoru/

Types of argon burners and how to choose them

When choosing a torch, you should first of all focus on the capabilities of an existing or selected welding machine. We will learn how to choose the right burner, the nuances of choice, what types and manufacturers there are. We will also tell you what is important to do before starting to work with the burner.

The general principle of argon arc welding is easier to describe using the connection diagram of welding equipment shown in the figure.

The main working tool is an argon torch connected to the welding machine. The required current is supplied to the electrode, and the welding zone itself is protected by a cloud of inert argon gas from interaction with atmospheric oxygen, which prevents the possibility of metal oxidation.

The operating principle is the same for burners from different manufacturers. The design is presented below.

When sold, the kit includes a cable: a hose for supplying argon and a power cable.

In rare cases, the burner is sold without a cable - you need to pay attention to this when ordering.

Types of argon torches for manual welding

Welding can be done manually, semi-automatically or automatically. Accordingly, the design will be different. The more automated the process, the more complex the device.

Let's look at devices exclusively for manual welding (TIG): what they are, what to look for when choosing a particular model.

The main functions of the torch are to hold the welding electrode, which creates the arc, and to supply gas to the welding zone. Even the simplest burners can handle this. For a high-quality result, in addition to the experience of the welder, it is required that it be convenient to work and one cannot expect a catch in the form of, for example, a falling electrode or other unpleasant “trifles.”

Argon burners can be classified according to the type of cooling: air or liquid. Most TIG torch models are air cooled. A water heat sink requires additional equipment.

According to the method of gas supply, burners are distinguished, equipped with a valve or a button. Some models come with both.

It is difficult to classify torches based on the type of connector connected to the welding machine due to their diversity.

Typically, the manufacturer installs connectors for certain types of inverters. The connector must match the socket of the welding machine. This is where problems may arise when purchasing a burner online, since only a few manufacturers indicate the type of connector in the name. For example, in the FUBAG TIG 26 5P torch there is a 5pin control connector, in the TORCH 24 WATER 4m M12x1 there is an M12x1 connector. As a last resort, the connector is soldered.

But the length of the train must be indicated. Its most common size is 4 meters, less often - 8 meters, and even less often - intermediate values.

What can the labeling tell you?

On most burners or in the product name on websites, sellers still indicate a “defining” numerical value. For example, TIG 26 after the manufacturer's name.

When choosing a torch, a novice welder should have an idea of the differences between torches hidden under the numbers.

By and large, argon burners can be divided into two groups by size: small and large. The small ones include 9 (air-cooled) and 20 (water-cooled). Consumables and components for them are interchangeable. For large (suitable for household welding) torches with numbers 18 (water cooling), 17 and 26 (air) the same applies to replacement.

In the designation of inexpensive domestic burners, a designation like WP 17 is often found (the manufacturer’s name is indicated somewhere, but you will have to look for it). In principle, the minimum information was obtained: a large air-cooled argon burner under pure tungsten electrodes.

Electrodes for argon welding

When argon welding, electrodes made of refractory tungsten are used, sometimes pure, sometimes with additives. The presence of additives makes it easier to work with a number of metals and alloys.

In addition to letter markings, different types of tungsten electrodes are marked by the color of the shank.

For convenience, the information is presented in the table.

Letter designation.ColorCurrent (DC or AC)Metals to be weldedNote

W.P.	green	A.C.	Magnesium, aluminum, alloys
WZ	white	A.C.	Bronze, aluminum, nickel, alloys
W.T.	red	DC	Stainless steel, tantalum, molybdenum	Special safety measures: mandatory ventilation in the room.
W.Y.	blue	DC	Carbon, low alloy, stainless steels, titanium
W.L.	golden	DC,AC	Any steels and alloys
W.C.	grey	DC,AC	Any steels and alloys

The diameter of the electrode is selected depending on the operating current: up to 50 A - diameter 1 mm, up to 100 A - 1.6 mm, up to 200 A - from 2 mm to 2.4 mm, over 200 A - 3.2 mm, over 300 A – 4 mm. In addition to the current strength, the thickness of the metal being welded is taken into account. It would be more correct to say that the choice of electrode and current depends on the thickness and composition of the metal.

Non-consumable tungsten electrodes require sharpening before use. The general principle for choosing the sharpness of an angle is that the wider the planned seam, the thinner the point.

The tip itself is cleaned.

What else does a welder need before work?

Concern for safety precautions when performing welding work falls on the shoulders of the welder himself. A mask (with a shield is less convenient), overalls or a jacket with pants, mittens made of specially treated fabric are mandatory equipment. Exposed skin areas are not allowed.

It is necessary to check the workplace for the correct connection of the torch to the welding machine and cylinder, the integrity of the cable and hose, the presence of a fire extinguisher, and the absence of flammable and combustible objects nearby.

Argon welding process

Main components of the workplace:

welding machine;
argon cylinder;
burner;
electrodes;
filler rod.

The general procedure of work has some differences from conventional arc welding, they are worth paying attention to.

When the required welding current is selected and set on the machine, and the ground is connected to the part being welded, the process can begin.

In one hand there is a torch, in the other there is a filler rod. Welding, unlike conventional arc welding, cannot begin with the electrode touching the workpiece.

First, gas is applied to the workpiece for 15-20 seconds, then the nozzle is smoothly brought to the metal (the distance between the workpiece and the electrode should be approximately 2 mm and remain so during operation). The resulting arc is smoothly guided along the seam, preventing transverse movements.

The filler wire is positioned in front of the nozzle and feeds smoothly. An experienced welder can handle this easily, but a beginner will have to “feel the process.” As a rule, 3-5 attempts are enough.

The supply of argon should not be stopped immediately, but 5-7 seconds after completion of the seam.

Popular models of argon burners

Despite the general operating principle of argon burners, each manufacturer brings something different. Some use especially durable or especially flexible materials, others modify the basic design for convenient operation, others set the goal of durability or some other parameter.

When looking at offers based on pictures on sellers’ websites, it is difficult to obtain comprehensive information, especially when prices range from 2.5 to 20 (sometimes higher) thousand rubles, and this is the cost without delivery.

Brief overview of manufacturers

The brand, of course, makes adjustments to the cost of the argon burner, but the name of the device means nothing for operation. Let's consider the products of the most popular manufacturers today.

AURORA TIG 9V 110A is a torch of a domestic manufacturer, adapted to work with welding machines of the SVAROG brand. It's easy to find and purchase consumables. Devices from this manufacturer, depending on the modification, cost from 2.5 to 4.5 thousand rubles.
Svarog TS 26V (M12×1) 4m – maximum operating current – 180 A (DC) and 130 A (AC). The electrodes used are from 0.5 to 4 mm, air cooling. Price - from 4 to 6 thousand rubles.
Bars TIG-17V – current (direct) – 140 A, air cooling, connector type not specified. The train, as in previous samples, is 4 meters long. The cost is about 3.5 thousand rubles.
TORCH burners are distinguished by their low price (up to three thousand rubles). The advantage is that it works on direct and alternating current. The connector is the same for the entire range of models - M12x1.

Source: https://generatorexperts.ru/gorelki/svarochnye/vidy-svarochnykh/argonovyx

Argon welding machine from an inverter: how to assemble, features, characteristics and setup

Welding technology using argon gives the master many possibilities. The argon arc method will help connect steels, alloys and carbon metals of any thickness.

But a welder who works for himself may not have the opportunity to buy a production machine for such welding: some doubt the manufacturers, others will not find a machine at the right price.

This problem can be solved in the same way as many other technological problems in welding - by making a device for the argon arc technique yourself from an inverter. It can replace simple factory models without being inferior to them in functionality and ease of use.

We will tell you the basics of assembling an argon apparatus.

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general information

Argon welding differs from simple manual electric arc welding by the presence of a gas cylinder with argon and filler material. The remaining details of these methods are similar.

Argon arc welding (also known as TIG) necessarily involves the use of a tungsten refractory electrode, which ignites the arc. The seam is formed by an additive.

Tig welding itself is not complicated. Shielding gas is supplied from the torch to the weld formation area. Once the feed starts, the arc is ignited. To ignite the arc, the torch with the inserted rod is brought to the metal part.

At what point and why does arson occur?

This is done by the oscillatory mechanism. It charges the argon and directs its particles. This charge provokes the ignition of the arc.

The filler wire is fed into the welding cavity only after the electric arc has stabilized. It is moved either by the feeding mechanism or by the welder’s hand.

The metal is melted by an arc, and weld beads are formed from an additive. The latter melts simultaneously with the metal and merges with it into a homogeneous mass.

In the next block we will describe the assembly of the machine for argon arc welding and what is needed for it.

What to collect from?

An argon welding machine does not require the purchase of complex components. We will tell you about the main components that will be needed for this equipment.

First, you must have a power source for welding. We will take an inverter welding device.

Next, you need an oscillator device, the purpose of which we talked about. In addition, we need a protective unit for the device. Secondary parts include gas cylinders, welding torches, reducers, gas hoses and connecting cables.

Next, we’ll talk specifically about each of them.

About the current source

Transformer and rectifier devices can be used as a source of welding current. But they are not technically new, and may not be able to handle some aspects of argon arc welding.

A functional inverter device will perform better in this role.

But making a machine for argon arc welding from an inverter device is somewhat more difficult. If you try to just connect an oscillator to it, the inverter may fail instead of cooking in an argon environment.

To prevent this from happening, you need to add a protective block to the device. It is assembled on the same board with the oscillator, and the board itself is equipped with an individual housing.

You can take a closer look at your inverter device or its passport. If it says somewhere that the device has a TIG function, you won't need to do anything to your inverter.

For argon welding, you can simply connect an argon cylinder and a torch to the machine. Typically, the inverter is suitable for MMA welding, but has expanded functionality due to an oscillator and a protective block.

In this case, consider that the manufacturer has taken care of you and made the machine suitable for TIG welding.

About the oscillator and protection unit

In order to equip inverters that are not intended for argon arc welding, it is necessary to build oscillators and protection units into them.

To do this, you can find visual diagrams or video tutorials on the Internet. They will explain things more clearly than plain text.

About the burner and gas

Minor components cannot be selected by touch. For example, any gas burner will not work. Specialized torches for argon arc welding are produced.

Its nozzle is made of ceramic, and a holder for a refractory electrode rod is built inside.

The burners are also assembled by hand, and parts for them are available in online stores and construction hypermarkets. But it’s better to save time and choose one of the factory burners. The price difference will not be so noticeable.

The shielding gas is argon. It is “packed” and transported in gray or black cylinders. Argon from gray cylinders contains argon in its pure form, so it performs better in welding.

You don’t need a cylinder larger than ten liters if you cook at home, in the country or in the garage. The ten-liter cylinder is small and light, so it is easy to carry and transport from place to place.

Fifty-liter cylinders are needed by craftsmen who work on stationary equipment, most often in a workshop.

About the reducer and hose

Gas reducers are placed on argon cylinders to equalize the external pressure in the hoses and the internal pressure of the tank. Not all gearboxes are suitable for argon. They are usually painted in the color of the cylinder.

There is no need to assemble the hose yourself. It will be easier to buy a factory one and not try to experiment. The hose you make by hand may have porosity or be difficult to use.

In addition, it will not be easy to find a connector for connecting to the gas source and burner.

Assembling the device

Once you have all the components, you can begin assembly. First of all, connect the oscillator and the protective unit to the inverter apparatus. To understand how this is done, look for visual diagrams.

Connect the ground to the terminal of the oscillator device with the plus sign. Connect the cable that comes from the burner to the negative terminal. To weld aluminum, the cables must be connected in reverse.

Connect the burner to the gas hose and combine the cylinder with the reducer. Connect the hose with the burner to the gas hose and cables. Then connect the reducer and hose together.

Only after this can the device be connected to a regular power supply of 200 volts. The power of the oscillator should be about six volts. After all these steps, you need to configure the inverter equipment for argon arc welding technology.

Setting up a homemade device

Even a factory device must be properly configured. This also applies to homemade equipment. This way the welding will take place without problems and will produce seams of good quality. We will note what you need to consider when setting up a converted inverter.

The first stage is sharpening the electrode rod. For this you need a special sharpener. The tip of the rod should be sharp, like a pencil.

A dull electrode will destabilize the welding arc, and it will not be able to follow one straight line. Therefore, it is impossible to avoid the sharpening stage.

After sharpening, the electrode is inserted into the torch holder. The latter is turned on by turning the valve on the cylinder and pressing the ignition button. Use the gearbox to correct the flow of argon.

It should not be more than fifteen liters per minute. After the gas flow has been adjusted, turn off the burner and pause the flow.

After this, connect the oscillator device with the protective block and bring the torch to the workpiece. Before doing this, place the mass on the metal. The burner should be very close to the metal.

After switching on, an electric arc will occur. Then open the gas and at this time move the burner a little further.

Now the converted inverter can work.

Conclusion

You can not only buy a machine for argon arc welding, but also assemble it yourself. And this, as you can see, is not difficult. You may even have some parts for this at your dacha, and the rest can be bought on the Internet or on the market.

Once you know how to assemble a TIG welding device, you will also know how to repair it. Besides, with a small investment you will quickly learn how to work with it. You will certainly choose high-quality parts, so you will be your own guarantor of quality.

Such an inverter will not have much functionality, and therefore is not suitable for field or construction work. But in a home or garage, it will be enough for you. Good luck!

Source: https://prosvarku.info/apparaty/apparat-dlya-argonovoj-svarki-iz-invertora

Variety of argon welding applications

Today there is a continuous increase in requirements for the quality of manufactured products. Argon welding is used to satisfy almost all customer requests in the production of various metal structures for construction and household purposes.

Argon welding is a technological process that is built on two main elements - the inert gas argon and a tungsten electrode. The function of the inert gas is to protect the metal from exposure to an oxygen environment. In some cases, helium can be used instead of argon.

However, this gas has a high cost, so it is not advisable to use it.

You will gain a lot of benefits from taming TIG welding

Setting up a machine for argon arc welding

Before proceeding with welding work, it is necessary to set up the machine for argon arc welding.

Connect the power cable to a single-phase 230V power source, and make sure that the outlet is grounded;
Place the gas cylinder on a stable surface. You need to make sure that it is well secured;
Connect one side of the gas hose to the reducer with a pressure gauge on the cylinder, according to the instructions included with the reducer. The other end of the hoses should be connected to the fitting of a TIG torch with a manual valve.
Connect the ground to the positive terminal “+”;
Connect the argon-arc welding torch wire to the negative terminal “—”;
Turn on the device using the button on the rear panel;
Open the gas valve on the handle of the welding torch and light the arc. To do this, place the end of the tungsten electrode on the surface to be treated. After this, slowly and smoothly move it upward to a distance of 3-6 mm.

How to weld in an argon environment with a tungsten electrode?

The starting point on the workpiece must first be heated. To do this, you need to make a couple of circular movements with a welding gun. As a result, a weld bead is formed.
The tungsten electrode should be at a distance of 6 mm from the metal surface. Once the weld bead has formed, you need to continue working slowly and at a constant speed.
Thus, the seams are the same in width and penetration depth.
Once the weld pool has become liquid, remove the welding gun and add material by touching the pool with the filler rod.
Remove the rod and again bring the welding gun to the weld seam.
This operation must be repeated at the same speed to obtain a uniform weld.

Parameters of argon arc welding modes

To carry out argon arc welding at a high level, it is necessary to select optimal modes that will ensure the most efficient process.

Argon welding technology assumes that the polarity and direction of the current must be selected taking into account the properties of the metal being welded. As a rule, when working with basic steels and alloys, direct current of straight polarity is used. When welding magnesium, aluminum and beryllium, it is necessary to set reverse polarity, since rapid destruction of the oxide film is achieved.

The welding current must be set depending on the brand and composition of the materials, as well as on the polarity of the current and the diameter of the tungsten electrode. The exact data of the modes for solving a specific problem are selected from reference books.

The arc voltage depends on its length, therefore, work must be carried out with a minimum arc and reduced voltage. Argon welding technology shows that as the arc length increases, the voltage increases and the quality of the weld deteriorates.

The flow rate of inert gas is set so that the generated laminar flow completely protects the surfaces being welded from oxidation. You can learn more about setting the necessary modes for arc welding in an argon environment from a special video.

Welding clothing and protective equipment

To safely carry out the argon arc welding process, it is necessary to wear special clothing and protective equipment. Such protective equipment includes: a shield, a welder's mask, welder's glasses, protective glasses and light filters. The welder's mask is one of the most important components of the welder's protective equipment. After all, both his health and life depend on this.

It is not for nothing that a welder’s mask is considered the most important component of protective equipment when performing argon arc welding. This is due to the fact that it protects against several types of negative health effects on the welder during the welding process. Such negative consequences include: damage to the respiratory system, damage to the cornea of the eyes.

Welding metal in an argon environment produces a durable, beautiful seam

The welder's mask is made of lightweight, non-conductive, heat-resistant and non-toxic material. A darkened screen is built into the body of such a mask, which protects against radiation and provides the necessary visibility when carrying out argon arc welding.

The screen should consist of ordinary protective glass, a light filter and plastic film. The outer glass helps prevent metal splashes from entering the filter.

The inside of the light filter must be covered with colorless safety glass to protect the welder’s eyes and face from damage from fragments.

Argon welding technology means that the welder must be dressed in special clothing. As a rule, this is a canvas suit: trousers, jacket, apron and arm ruffles.

The welder's special shoes (boots) should protect him from contact with heated surfaces. Welder gloves protect the skin of the hands from splashes and sparks when welding with argon. The welder must also have a gas mask or dust respirator, which must be used when the maximum permissible concentration of gas and dust increases.

Additional equipment for argon arc welding

Very often, argon welding is performed using non-standard equipment. In order to ensure the quality of work, it is necessary to use two additional devices. Thanks to this equipment, it is possible to carry out a high-quality welding process.

An oscillator is a device that allows non-contact ignition of an electric arc. This device maintains a stable arc discharge when operating in AC modes.

An oscillator for arc welding consists of: a switch, a relaxer with a storage capacity, and a spark gap.

High-frequency, high-voltage pulses are applied to the electrode through an oscillator. These pulses ionize the arc gap and ensure the ignition of the arc after the current is turned off. If the operation is carried out on alternating current, then after ignition the oscillator begins to operate in stabilization mode. It transmits impulses when polarity changes. Thanks to this, stable combustion is achieved and deionization of the arc gap is eliminated.

For repairing parts where strength and beauty are needed, argon welding is suitable

Argon welding technology involves using a ballast rheostat as additional equipment. It is used to adjust the current strength and select optimal parameters when welding products made of different materials.

The ballast rheostat is characterized by durability and high reliability, and it is also very convenient for repair and operation.

More details about argon welding using these devices can be seen in a special video.

Source: http://zavarimne.ru/texnologiya/raznoobrazie-primeneniya-argonnoj-svarki/