Capacitor energy storage welding line diagram

What is capacitor discharge welding?

Capacitive discharge welding, particularly for large-scale systems, is typically done using film-type capacitors. These capacitors store energy along alternating plates separated by a dielectric film. Charge is stored statically along the lengths of the plates. The basic configuration of the film capacitor is provided in Figure 1.

What is a capacitive welder?

Capacitive welders deliver repeatable welds even during line voltage fluctuations. Spot welding relies on the principle of metal resistivity to heat and fuse metal. A large current is passed through the work piece. Energy is dissipated due to the metal resistance in the form of heat which melts and fuses weld materials. There are two phases to

What is capacitive discharge or CD welding?

Capacitive discharge or CD welding is a variant of resistance welding(1,2). The process differs from the conventional variants largely in the type of power supply used. Conventional systems provide some variant of alternating current to a transformer arrangement.

Does a film capacitor provide a similar voltage tolerance for CD welding?

Performance was evaluated based on current range behavior and metallographic response. Conclusions from this work include: to film capacitors – An array was developed to provide similar voltage tolerance and system capacitance to a standard film variant conventionally used for CD welding.

Are electrolytic capacitors a viable alternative for large capacity CD welding systems?

Electrolytic capacitors (E-caps) offer a potential alternative for large capacity CD welding systems. E-caps incorporate an electrolyte impregnated into a separator. The separator is then sandwiched between anodic and cathodic foils. A dielectric is also used to prevent direct contact of the foils with the electrolyte.

What are the advantages of a capacitive resistance welder?

Capacitive resistance welders have many advantages. Weld nugget formation takes place during the first few milli-seconds. Capacitive discharge welders allow extremely fast energy release with large peak currents. More of the energy goes into weld formation and less into heating surrounding material.