Systematic correlation of power supply design with welding performance

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The proposed work will characterize the dynamics of engine driven versus rectifier based arc welding power supplies to identify factors which develop stable arc and droplet transfer behaviour during arc welding. Such power supply equipment is widely used in the energy and construction industries, since these are reliant on field shield metal arc welding. The collaboration will involve the Lincoln Electric Company of Canada, and will provide them with new knowledge to optimize aspects of their designs. The analysis will involve weld testing under controlled conditions, while measuring voltage, current, using data acquisition, and synchronizing those signals with high speed video imaging. This will reveal how the electrical input influences molten metal droplet transfer through the arc. The results generated will be disseminated in both physics and welding related journals, and will develop a better understanding of arc plasma interactions during welding. The findings will finally explain the perceived differences in power supply usability reported by welders, and allow Lincoln Electric to enhance these features to improve productivity and enhanced capability during welding fabrication. The HQP trained will also support the Canadian fabrication industry which constantly demands skilled welding engineers.