Development of an algorithm for tungsten inert gas welding of an austenitic stainless steel sheet

Abstract

This paper examines the development of an algorithm for manual and robotic tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding of austenitic stainless steel sheet with a thickness of 0.9–2.0 mm. Generally, an algorithm is a means of describing an optimum course of a technological process and includes mathematical models for computation of individual quantities. In the present case the algorithm optimizes the course of TIG welding and welding parameters. It includes mathematical models for the computation of optimum welding current intensity, welding speed, energy input, arc length, gas flowrate and diameter of the non-consumable tungsten electrode as a function of sheet thickness. A general algorithm for manual and robotic welding of a butt-welded joint with a plain butt weld and a complete algorithm for four welded joints on a sheet with a thickness of 0.9–2.0 mm are stated. Conclusions are drawn and guidelines for future work are given.