Evaluation of an Automatic Seam Tracking/Adaptive Control Welding System for Shipyard Applications, 1983-1984 (Phase 1)
Abstract
An automatic seem tracking/adaptive control welding system, the M-1OOO, was evaluated by weld testing using the vertical position high heat input pulsed gas metal arc welding process. During the course of the evaluation period, numerous hardware and software modifications were made by the machine designer/builder, CRC Automatic Welding, in response to Electric Boat Division suggestions. Significant improvements were made in bead shape and size, and in the automatic selection of the type of bead required and the parameters to use as a function of the prevailing groove geometry. It was concluded that the thru-the-arc concept of seem tracking/adaptive control used by the M-1OOO was a viable technology and potential savings in welding time may be possible if the M-1OOO could be made competitive with current mechanized systems in terms of weld quality and bead size deposited. However, additional development work, on both hardware and software, is required to realize the potential of the M-1OOO.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1985
- Accession Number
- ADA453264
Entities
People
- Neil D. Fichtelberg
Organizations
- General Dynamics Electric Boat