Plasma Arc Welding

In plasma arc welding, a shielded arc is struck between a non consumable electrode and the torch body, and this arc transforms an inert gas into plasma.  This plasma is then used to melt the workpiece and filler metal.

Process Characteristics

Uses nonconsumable tungsten electrodes
Requires inert gases, such as argon, helium, and nitrogen, for the shielding gas and to form the plasma
Produces a high temperature arc of 30,000 degrees F.

BACK

Information provided is from Manufacturing Processes Reference Guide by Robert H. Todd, Dell K. Allen, and Leo Alting.--1st ed. Published by Industrial Press Inc., 1994.