Early electrical capacitors date back as far as the mid-1700s. Those early rudimentary electrical charge storage systems developed over the next 250 years to the capacitors we use in many applications today. There are multiple variations of capacitors and supercapacitors used across contemporary industries that are highly advanced storage and release systems. Capacitor discharge technology is also utilized in stud welding applications for versatile, strong welds with thin base material. If you’re utilizing capacitor discharge (CD) stud welding systems, Northland Fastening Systems (NFS) has a comprehensive range of welding supplies, including tools for rent and purchase, studs in a range of dimensions with custom options available, welding accessories, and the technical support of our knowledgeable staff. There are many benefits that CD stud welding provides to manufacturers and technicians working with specific materials and small diameter studs.
CD Stud Welding
Not only does CD stud welding allow technicians to build with small diameter studs as, it’s also a manufacturing technique that allows work on thin-gauge welding surfaces without distortion. The ability to weld extremely small diameter studs onto thin surfaces without risking mark-through or structural distortion allows welders to install fasteners for a broad range of industries, including food-grade equipment and insulation. These processes help manufacturers build with integrity and meet specifications for unique products.
Dissimilar Metals
CD stud welding can also be used to fasten dissimilar metals like various steel grades, aluminum, copper, brass, and other alloys without compromising the strength of the weld surface or stud. This is because CD installation penetrates at shallow depths that don’t risk metallurgical issues.
With an ignition tip that is charged with the release of electrical current from a capacitor, CD tools generate a rapid weld with a clean, ideal cosmetic result. The process of CD stud welding done properly will have little-to-no burn marks, no marking on the backside of the weld surface, and a connection point even stronger than the stud itself.
Automated Production
When working with smaller diameter studs and thin welding surfaces, CD stud welding is also the most cost-effective for labor, materials, assembly, and energy in addition to being the most visually appealing. For components that can be installed in automated production lines, CD stud welding offers a rapid operation with precision on repeat.
High-Integrity Weld
CD stud welding creates such a high-integrity weld because of an exact calibration of heat and pressure. When the capacitor discharges its stored current and activates the ignition tip, the stud is heated and pressed into the weld surface at a specific pressure. The heat and pressure requirements depend on the diameter of the stud and the materials used. While contact CD stud welding is a more common process, some manufacturers will use gap welding tools. Gap welding is an effective operation when technicians who are working with aluminum and stainless steel require a completely mark-free back side.
To learn more about different CD stud welding operations, tools, and applications, contact NFS at (651) 730-7770. Or you can request a quote online to get started with us today.