Comparing Form Roll Welding Techniques

Parts can be roll formed using various types of steel, aluminum, or other alloys. The application of the type of welding is determined by the type of material, quality of weld, and production rate required. There are limitations, such as TIG welding, which typically operates at a much slower speed than other welding techniques, such as high-frequency induction or high-frequency contact welding.

HF Induction welding utilizes an induction coil to heat metal to forge temperature before passing the part into a weld squeeze box, where the forging process takes place. Due to the round shape of induction coils, parts of rectangular or oblong shapes cannot be efficiently heated through this technique; in such an instance, HF contact welding may be used instead.

Contact welding utilizes direct contact with a part to induce current. This allows the current to be localized at the edges of the part as opposed to the entire part, which is critical to avoiding the tremendous power loss that would occur when using an induction coil to heat a part with notches, holes, or other irregularities.

Every industry can have applications where the welded shape technology can be applied to reduce costs and improve productivity. Some suggestions for a potential purchaser of such a welding line include visiting an installation utilizing the welded shape technology, and to talk to the plant manager and other personnel about the line, operation, and output.