Experimental analysis of droplet-gas interaction during GMAW process

Julien Chapuis (1) , Edward Roméro (2) , Fabien Soulié (2) , Cyril Bordreuil (2)

1 Canadian Centre for Joining and Welding
2 AS - Assemblages Soudés

Quality of GMAW is closely related to the behavior of the droplet from its detachment from the wire to its impingement to the weld pool. In the present research, an experimental methodology based on high speed imaging and contour detection was developed. The images are synchronized with the current and arc voltage process. The automatic detection of contour allows to track the shape for each image and to appreciate the evolution of the liquid metal for each droplet. The methodology is then applied for a set of welding parameters and two different gases (100% Argon and 92% Argon-8%CO2), in order to see how the metal transfer is modified. The profile detection allows seeing and measuring the influence of gas on the metal liquid droplet detachment and free flight motion for each period. Temperature and surface tension of the liquid metal with its interaction with the plasma are first measured and then these quantities are applied to explain some mechanisms induced in Pulsed GMAW.

Mots clés: Metal Transfer; Droplet Tracking; Pinch Pressure; Droplet Temperature; Surface tension; Gas Metal Arc Welding

Domaines: Matériaux

Julien Chapuis, Edward Roméro, Fabien Soulié, Cyril Bordreuil. Experimental analysis of droplet-gas interaction during GMAW process. 9th International Trends in Welding Research Conference, Jun 2012, Chicago, United States. 5p. ⟨hal-00808052⟩