Welding has traditionally been regarded as a craft rather than a technological manufacturing process. This reputation has not been helped by the dependence of conventional joining techniques on highly skilled manual operators and the relatively high cost of certain welding processes. Developments in recent welding technology have been devoted to an improved understanding of the basic welding processes. This manual provides an overview of common production welding processes, discussing recent developments and covering electronic power regulation, computer control, automation and process monitoring. The text indicates how advances in welding technology may be used to increase cost effective joints of appropriate quality.
An introduction to welding processes. Advanced process development trends. Welding power source technology. Filler materials for arc welding. Gases for advanced welding processes. Advanced GTAW. Gas metal arc welding. High energy density processes. Narrow-gap welding techniques. Monitoring and control of welding processes. Welding automation and robotics. Summary. Appendices. References. Index.