Study of Cross-Combination and Square-Combination Configuration Magnetic Field on Tungsten Inert Gas Welding

Abstract

In this study, cross-combination and square-combination configuration of the permanent external magnet were used in tungsten inert gas welding process. The external magnetic field effect to the arc plasma was observed using two cameras from the front view and side view. The depth of penetration and weld profile was investigated after welding. In this study, two types of magnets were employed; a 3 mm magnet with intensity ranging from 270-280 mT and a 5 mm magnet with 400-415 mT. Each configuration has three sub-configurations: forward, backward, and side, so there were 12 parameters in this study. The result shows that a cross-combination 5 mm magnet can increase weld penetration in any position, forward, backward or side deflection, and improve the depth-to-width ratio, however using 3 mm magnet did not influence the penetration significantly. Cross-combination has more stiffness and stability of the arc than square-combination. Most configurations have the same size weld bead width. Square combinations had fluctuated result, stiffness and stability of the arc was poor. This investigation aims to enlarge our understanding of the magnetic field effect on the arc plasma and the weld profile. In future, the arc blow effect from the external magnetic field can be controlled and regulated to improve TIG welding performance.