Method and apparatus for welding with CV control

US8598492B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC. · US

Inventors

• Robert R. Davidson · New London, US
• James Lee Uecker · Appleton, US
• Todd Earl Holverson · Appleton, US
• David G. Almy · Fremont, US
• Curt J. Beck · Appleton, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Oct 4, 2006
• Grant date: Dec 3, 2013
• Expiry date: Dec 5, 2030

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B23K9/1062
• WIPO field: Machine tools
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A method and apparatus for welding is disclosed. The output is preferably a cyclical CV MIG output, and each cycle is divided into segments. An output parameter is sampled a plurality of times within one or more of the segments. The CV output is controlled within the at least one segment in response to the sampling. The parameter is output power, a resistance of the load, an output current, an output voltage, or functions thereof in various embodiments. The control loop is preferably a PI or PID loop. The loop may be applied only within a window. The set point may be taught or fixed. The system can be used to weld with a controlled arc length.