Many factors go into completing a high-quality stud welding operation. Attention must be paid to the surface preparation, stud type, materials, local contaminants, and the welding gun setup. Each welding scenario has slight differences in process, but most follow the same basic rules. Technicians who learn the process of setting up a gun, calibrating power correctly, and attaching a stud with the correct time and penetration will be able to successfully perform most types of stud welding operations, including drawn arc and capacitor discharge (CD). No matter what kind of stud welding you’re working with, you can find the supplies and technical support you need at Northland Fastening Systems (NFS). We offer a complete range of tools, studs, and accessories for CD, short cycle, and drawn arc stud welding.
Drawn Arc Stud Welding
When it comes to setting up a handheld gun for drawn arc stud welding, there may be some differences between certain tools, but for the most part, the assembly will follow these steps.
- Select the correct chuck adapter.
- Screw adapter into gun.
- Seat arc chuck into adapter—ensure it is tightly placed.
- Select the correct arc foot size, depending on the stud diameter being used.
- Small Foot for studs with a ⅛” to ½” diameter
- Medium Foot for studs with a ⅝” to ¾” diameter
- Large Foot for studs with a ⅞” to 1″ diameter
- Select the correct arc foot type, depending on the stud length being used.
- Closed Foot for studs 2″ or shorter
- Split Foot for studs longer than 2″
- Screw arc legs into the foot with the recess facing outward. Screws should be loose until final adjustments are made.
- Insert the assembled foot system into the gun with chuck protruding farther than the arc foot.
- Insert the stud into the arc chuck.
- Select the correct ferrule grip, depending on the stud length being used.
- Closed Ferrule Grip for studs 2″ or shorter
- Split Ferrule Grip for studs longer than 2″
- Insert the ferrule grip over the stud so it meets the arc foot.
- Tighten set screws.
- Adjust foot assembly to ensure the stud is in the center of the ferrule grip.
- Tighten leg screws.
- Place the ferrule at the end of the stud.
- Adjust leg screws for plunge, depending on the stud diameter being used.
- Re-tighten leg screws when plunge is accurate.
- Stud gun is ready for a weld.
- Double check the power supply, grounding clamp, and surface condition before performing the weld.
Summary
The correct setup of a stud gun for any job is a critical part of the welding cycle. To learn more about drawn arc stud welding and our supplies, contact NFS at (651) 730-7770 or request a quote online today.