Pulsed arc welding is one of the new processes finding many applications throughout a whole range of industries. The process, which is like metal inert gas welding (MIG), produces a quality akin to tungsten inert gas welding (TIG) with consumable electrodes. The pulsed process is three to four times faster than the TIG process.
Essentially, the equipment is similar to MIG welding; however, the shielding gases used are normally argon or an argon mixture. The pulsed process can be used for all-position welding of ferrous and non-ferrous materials.
A distinguishing feature of the process is that large wire diameters can be operated at low welding currents. This means the cost of welding wire will be reduced (compared to standard MIG welding) and the problem of pushing aluminum wire through long conduits will be solved.
The origin of the process is somewhat confusing; there are a number of patents on the process originating from the U.S. and England. Of historical importance are the combined studies of the electrical arc and power source design to precisely control the metal transfer in MIG welding. The welding institute of England has carried out considerable research into the studies of metal transfer in the arc. The importance of their work is largely the reason why the process has been introduced into the industry.