Automatic arc welding with filler wire
US4935598A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 14, 1988 |
| Grant date | Jun 19, 1990 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 14, 2008 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB23K9/26
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Automatic metal inert-gas-shielded arc welding of such apparatus as large transformer casings with stainless steel welding filler wire fed to the work through a torch from a spool. A series of seam welds are produced on each casing. The torch and spool are mounted on a movable arm of an electrically operated robot. The robot has sensing means responsive to electrical conduction through the work and the wire to position the wire in the correct location for producing each weld. The tip of the wire is oxidized during each weld of the series precluding the electrical conduction necessary to locate the wire for the next weld of the series. In accordance with the disclosure, there is provided a wire cutter displaced from work. After each weld, the robot arm positions the wire in the cutter. This positioning of the wire automatically triggers a proximity switch which actuates a high speed rotary grinder to sever the oxidized tip of the wire. The grinder moves at right angles to the wire cutting the wire squarely so that there is no bend in the resulting end of the wire to militate against accurate location by the sensor for the next weld. The grinder is composed of electrically insulating…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.