Stud welding is an operation that many industries utilize because of its diverse benefits to a wide range of production processes. While drawn arc stud welding is key for heavy-duty studs, load-bearing composite building, and other large-scale construction, CD stud welding has an equal frequency of use in different types of construction.
If you’re using CD stud welding in your production process, you will gain the benefits of rapid, economical, low-energy welding that provides a clean weld with no reverse-side marking. With the help of Northland Fastening Systems technical support and our selection of all the tools, studs, pins, and accessories you might need for CD stud welding, you can get your job done with ease and quality.
CD stud welding is a form of resistance welding, unlike drawn arc welding. Arc welding is a fusion welding process that often requires a filler material and frequently leaves a slag from the flux used that has to be cleaned to finish the product. CD stud welding doesn’t require a filler material and it leaves a clean weld that won’t need finishing after the weld is done.
When done correctly, CD stud welding is a fast and easy process that leaves a pristine, strong weld. However, there are some defects that can occur when CD stud welding is not performed accurately or with the right materials:
- Spread of molten metal from the weld site is a common issue when weld pressure is too low, the current is too high, or the weld is timed incorrectly. Molten metal expulsion can also be evidence of surface contamination.
- Spattering of metal is another sign of too high a current. It creates excess heat that can cause explosive spray and loss of metal at the weld site, weakening the weld overall.
- Cracked weld connections are a clear alert to a weak weld. These cracks often occur due to lack of pressure during the weld leading to an incomplete or porous connection. Inadequate pressure during the weld leads to a low tensile strength at the connection point.
- Indentations at the weld site are another result of incorrect pressure and/or current. With too much pressure, the current decreases and a poor weld connection is formed because of the low pressure. Welding studs indented into surface material even slightly are a sign of too high of pressure and too low of current/temperature.
- Misshapen weld spots are also a common defect with incorrectly performed CD stud welding. A strong, accurate weld should have a perfectly circular weld mark. Bloated, smushed, or otherwise misshapen weld spots are a result of contamination or misaligned electrodes in the welding tool.
These defects can be easily avoided when you choose to work with NFS products and take advantage of our technicians’ expertise whenever questions arise. To learn more about our CD stud welding products and other stud welding supplies, contact NFS at (651) 730-7770 today. Request a quote online to get started on your stud welding project now.