As a fastening system, stud welding has a versatile range of applications across industries. Not only can larger diameter studs be used in heavy-duty construction, such as the building of infrastructure and skyscrapers, smaller welding pins are important in the role of food safe equipment and insulation. In many regards, the application of stud welding is endless. Compared to other techniques like riveting and bolting, stud welding also has many benefits. However, these weld connection points are only as good as the knowledge and skill of the technicians performing them. If a weld is calibrated incorrectly or positioned at the wrong angle, a connection point can become brittle, too cold for full fusion, or result in unsightly splatter of molten metal. If you’re working with stud weld fastening systems for any application, you can find the tools, studs, and accessories you need with Northland Fastening Systems (NFS). NFS also provides repair services for most models, and we offer expert advice to help you achieve successful welds from drawn arc to CD stud welding.
CD Stud Welding
CD welding is a type of fastening system that typically uses smaller diameter studs. It’s used to install insulation, build electrical enclosures, construct food safe equipment, and even jewelry, signage, and other super small diameter pin fasteners.
Whenever you are installing CD studs and pins, several technical aspects should be taken into account to achieve a successful weld.
- Time: In general, CD stud welding is a rapid operation. Welds can be completed as quickly as 0.01 seconds and on welding surfaces as thin as 0.020″ (0.5mm) This fast welding time is one of the many benefits stud fastening systems provide, but if the welding time is done too quickly or with too long of a hold, it can result in an incorrect weld. The time of the weld goes hand in hand with stud penetration.
- Penetration: The longer or shorter the time of a weld, the deeper or shallower the penetration. If a weld is done too quickly, the weld penetration will be too shallow. A shallow weld often creates a brittle, easily cracked connection point. Welds that penetrate too deeply can spatter molten metal and provide an unattractive, potentially porous weld.
- Temperature: Penetration also intersects with temperature. If a welding tool is calibrated to the wrong power supply, it can result in a weld that is either too hot or too cold. Welds that are too cold will also have inadequate penetration, while a weld that is too hot will result in over-penetration. Both cases are weaker, low-quality, fastening systems.
Summary
Like any other manufacturing operations, stud welding must fall into the correct technical parameters for success. To learn more about the CD stud welding supplies and other stud welding information, contact NFS at (651) 730-7770 or request a quote online.