When performed correctly, stud welding applications can provide a fastening system with connection points stronger than either the welding stud or the base material. The basic result of a stud weld is a chemical combination of the two metals being connected, rather than just an adhesion. This chemical bond between two different components is a critical tool for a wide range of manufacturing industries. If you rely on the stud welding process for your production operations, you can find everything you need at Northland Fastening Systems to get your job done efficiently and effectively. From studs in a comprehensive range of dimensions to welding tools for rent and purchase, our expert technicians and knowledgeable staff can help you get all the accessories you need.
Whether you are using drawn arc or CD (capacitor discharge) techniques, each stud welding process has similar stages and requires the same level of inspection processes. Weld inspection is a critical aspect of a well-executed welding operation. For all stud welding processes, the following basic components comprise a thorough weld inspection.
- Spattering: One sign of an obvious issue in a weld is spattering, which is splashed or spattered molten metal around the weld point, that points to a too-hot weld. Overly hot welds cause weaker connections and shorten the stud length more than desirable.
- Burn through: Another sign of a too-hot weld is burn through of the stud too deeply into the base material. This issue leads to rapid metal fatigue and a poor visual result.
- Dull/low flashing: A cold weld, on the other hand, shows slightly different, but easily identified issues. First, a cold weld problem results in dull flashing or a low level of molten metal around the weld point. Cold welds can also result in a failed connection or damaged stud.
- Stringing: Another clear sign of a cold weld problem is metal stringing around the weld point. This slight spattering has longer, duller strands of molten metal around the connection than hot weld spattering.
- Undercut: If poorly centered, improperly aligned, or welded with too much lift, a weld can show an undercut at the connection point. This means the weld was “hung up” and has a weak connection. Other issues of an undercut is little flashing and a long stud length.
- Bend: The bend test is one last test after initial inspections that can reveal welding problems. In stressing a stud and connection point by bending it back and forth, you can ensure your welding tools are correctly calibrated. If the weld connection point breaks before the stud, your tools are not performing correctly. In any good stud weld, the stud should snap before the connection point cracks or breaks.
With these simple visual inspections and the bend test, you can eliminate the majority of weld issues. To learn more about the stud welding process and troubleshooting a weld, contact Northland Fastening Systems at (651) 730-7770. You can also request a quote online to get started with us today.