Application Groundwork

Prior to developing a weld program (weld parameters) for any application, the welding engineer must first attempt to ensure that a solid foundation of welding basics are satisfied. Basic requirements would be that the material is weldable, the most suitable weld joint has been chosen, and that thought has been given to the Tungsten electrode and shield gas(es).

It is imperative that the engineer responsible for welding have a basic understanding of how to choose (and modify) the application groundwork in order to enhance the foundation upon which the welding program is developed. Listed below are the fundamental concerns.

• Material Weldability
  
  
• Design of the Weld Joint: Joint fit-up requirements. Heat balance considerations.
  
  
• Weld Tooling: Weld tooling geometry, tooling materials, proximity to the weld, weld grounding.
  
  
• Tungsten Welding Electrode: The effect of electrode material and geometry on the weld shape. Electrode material recommendations. Grinding requirements.
  
  
• Shield Gases: How to choose the shield gas and gas purity grade. Gas types, and mixtures, argon, helium, argon/hydrogen. The effect of hydrogen on the arc and weld quality. Gas lens requirements.