
TL-180B
2. System Description
2-1
2. System Description
(1) Features
Overview
This manual is organized to assist you in getting productive quickly with your
TL-180B Weld Head.
Our TL-180B Weld Heads are production line heads having a narrow vertical
profile. They are characterized by low inertia, force fired operation. Their primary
operational features allow them to be used in a wide variety of precision resistance
welding applications.
1.75 inch (4.44 cm) width (actual head module)
1.25 inch (3.17 cm) stroke
5 to 100 pound (22.2 to 445 N) force range
6.031 to 10.125 inch (15.32 to 25.72) throat depth
Bearing life is designed for a minimum of 20 million operations when the head is
used according to specifications.
The design of the aluminum extrusion mounting system and main shaft ensures
that the offset electrodes do not slide from side to side more than 0.015 inch
(0.381 mm) at 100 pounds (445 N). The four mounting holes on the head spine
allow you to easily incorporate the head into your custom welding machines. In
addition, you can modify the aluminum extrusion used for the base of the head to
accommodate your custom fixtures and tooling.
Precision Welding The weld heads excel in their ability to deliver repeatable weld
force and electrode placement on your parts. The low inertia, lightweight design
ensures fast dynamic response. This allows the top electrode to follow the minute
expansion and contraction of the weld joint as it heats and cools. A "differential
motion" force-firing system triggers the weld energy power source at the precise
moment when the electrodes reach the preset firing force applied on the
workpieces.
Rugged construction, linear ball bearing bushings, and an over-sized anti-rotation
system provide perfect in-line electrode travel, which assures smooth vertical
travel of the upper electrode arm. This system minimizes the "wiping" (side-to-side
sliding) action of the electrodes during welding, even at maximum force settings.
Weld Force
The weld force is continuously adjustable from a minimum of 5 pounds (22.2 N) to
a maximum of 100 pounds (445 N). Settings are quickly reproduced by using the
force adjustment knob and easy-to-read visual scale. An adjustable tare spring
allows you to compensate for the weight of non-standard electrode holders. An
adjustment screw allows you to adjust the sensitivity of the force-firing switch.
Weld force is applied via an air cylinder.
Adjustable Stops
TL-180B Weld Heads have adjustable upstops and downstops. You can use the
downstop to limit excessive over-travel. You can use the upstop to reduce the
stroke and, therefore, the travel time of the head. This is a particularly useful
feature when using the head in an automated system.