Shunting of the arc current in plasma-arc consumable electrode welding (plasma-MIG welding)

ABSTRACT

Special features of the process of shunting plasma arc current with a consumable electrode are investigated. The effect of the diameter of the consumable electrode, its visible extension and plasma arc current on the shunting current is determined. The effect of shunting current on the electrode metal transfer and the rate of electrode melting is determined.

KEYWORDS:

• hybrid technology
• plasma-arc welding
• consumable electrode
• current shunting plasma
• drop metal transfer
• welding rate
• production rate of electrode melting