High-quality weld seams are a key criterion for many users of TIG welding processes. But in production environments which are constantly being streamlined to achieve maximum efficiency, time also plays an important role. With ArcTig, Fronius has developed a new TIG welding process for mechanized applications, which enables unprecedented speeds.

The ArcTig welding torch has an electrode clamping system, which cools the electrodes through to their tips. This increases the total resistance and ensures a high arc voltage. The electrons only leak out in a small area and with enormous density. This makes the arc thin and focused.

SHORTER PROCESSING TIMES

With ArcTig components, users can weld a single layer in materials up to ten millimeters thick. With classic TIG welding, this often requires multiple weld layers. Time-intensive weld seam preparation, such as U-type joint preperation, is also no longer necessary in many cases. Significantly less post-processing work is required because the weld seam is rarely superelevated and the relatively low heat input minimizes distortion. The process also enables higher welding speeds, thereby saving time. Thanks to the lower weld seam volume, the cost of filler metal is also reduced.

TRIED & TESTED IDEAS – BUT REINVENTED

ArcTig operates in a similar way to TIG welding, which means that the user can start welding without requiring time-consuming teaching. This minimizes training costs and prevents operating faults. Users can also use standard TIG electrodes, which can be changed quickly and allow for regrinding with ease as required.

BENEFITS CONVINCE CUSTOMERS STRAIGHTAWAY

One of the first fans of the new TIG process was the Turkish container construction specialist Teknokrom based in Izmir. The company was introduced to ArcTig at the 2017 Schweissen & Schneiden trade fair in Düsseldorf and, immediately impressed by the high speed and quality of the weld seams, ordered an ArcTig welding torch there and then. Teknokrom has been working in container construction since 2001 and produces chrome-nickel tanks for the food industry for export from Europe to Australia. These tanks are used in the production of goods such as olive oil, wine, and chocolate.

ArcTig allows Teknokrom to triple its welding speed per weld layer. In addition, the new process enables an ideal result with just one weld layer, whereby classic TIG welding would require four weld layers. When the system was commissioned, Fronius application engineers carried out several tests with the customer and together they determined the correct welding parameters for the optimum weld seam.