Clamping force tester checks spot welds in-process

Edited by the Manufacturingtalk editorial team May 27, 2004

A clamping force tester can be integrated with electrode cap machining and weld current checking to monitor spot welding equipment performance and maintenance.

To meet the need for a simple to install and operate method of testing spot welding equipment, Kistler has introduced a clamping force tester that can be integrated with electrode cap machining and weld current checking to provide an efficient service station to optimise performance and maintenance.

The key to the tester is the robust, long life piezoelectric force transmitter that measures clamping force accurately and reliably at minimum electrode spacing.

Damping elements in the transmitter mountings balance out variations in the positioning and impact of the welding tongs.

Spot welding, applied to both manual and robotic production methods, is a reliable and cost-effective method of joining sheet metal components, provided all the operating parameters are maintained within specification.

Electrode cap shape, welding current and clamping force are interdependent and require regular monitoring, if weld quality and productivity are not to be jeopardised.

The Kistler spot welding force tester is an effective method of checking manual and robotic welding systems allowing potential malfunctions to be detected and maintenance to be targeted to reduce operating costs, minimise rework and enhance productivity.

Established in Wintherthur (Switzerland) in 1957, Kistler is represented in over 50 countries and has subsidiaries in Germany, France, Italy, UK, Japan, USA, China, Korea and Singapore.

Heavy investment in research and development, 15% of staff worldwide are engaged in research and development, has generated a number of innovations using piezoelectric, piezoresistive and capacitive techniques to provide solutions to numerous force, pressure and acceleration measuring problems.

These innovations include the world's first commercial quartz sensor, two-wire constant current technology to integrate sensors with microelectronic circuitry, high-temperature pressure sensors for use up to 350degC and three-component force measuring sensors.