- 17 - PATON MultiPRO DC MMA/TIG/MIG/MAG
3.6 SHORT ARC WELDING FUNCTION
Short arc welding, a technique where the arc length is kept minimal between the electrode
and the workpiece, is favored for its lower heat input, which is especially apt for welding
thin materials to reduce distortion. This approach grants welders superior control over the
molten weld pool, minimizing spatter and facilitating positional welding, such as overhead
or vertical-up tasks. The result is generally a shallow penetration, stable arc, and cleaner
welds. However, it's imperative to select appropriate electrodes, as not all are suitable for
this method. For this purpose, the machine has an option to turn the "Short-Arc" function
to the "ON" position. By default, it is in the "OFF" position.
To change the value of any function in the current welding mode, see section 6.1.
3.7 NO-LOADING VOLTAGE REDUCTION UNIT FUNCTION
In the welding process in places such as tanks or cisterns, where maintaining a high level of
electrical safety is a priority, the no-load voltage reduction function becomes crucial. In this
equipment model, a unit that reduces no-load voltage has been integrated. After detaching
the electrode from the workpiece, within 0.1 seconds, it reduces the voltage at the source
terminals to a safe level below 12V. By default, this unit is set to the "OFF" position, as
activating this function can affect the quality of arc ignition. To ensure optimal balance
between safety and welding performance, operators should be aware of when and how to
use this function, considering the specifics of the working environment and potential risk.
To change the value of any function in the current welding mode, see section 6.1.
3.8 PULSED CURRENT WELDING FUNCTION
The pulse current function in SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding) introduces a controlled
modulation between a higher peak current and a lower base current during the welding
process. This pulsation aims to optimize the balance between metal deposition rate, heat
input, and penetration.
During the peak current phase, sufficient energy is delivered to ensure proper fusion and
penetration, while the base current phase maintains the arc stability and reduces the
overall heat input. This controlled pulsing can aid in achieving a more consistent and
refined weld bead, mitigating excessive heat build-up and potential warping or distortion of
the workpiece.
For welders, the pulse function in MMA can offer enhanced control, especially beneficial
when working with heat-sensitive materials or in scenarios where precise heat input is
paramount. Proper tuning of the pulse parameters like pulse frequency and the ratio
between peak and base currents can lead to improved weld quality, reduced spatter, and a
more desirable bead appearance.
It also can provide better control over the cooling rate, which can influence the weld's
metallurgical properties and reduce the risk of defects such as porosity and cracking. By
controlling the current and consequently the arc force, there can be a noticeable reduction
in spatter, which results in cleaner welds and less post-weld cleanup.