Usability of arc types in industrial welding

TLDR

Arc behaviour is a critical factor in welding, and understanding arc types and their properties can improve weld prediction, quality, reduce costs and cycle time, especially as advanced processes rely on real‑time control and prediction. This paper analyses welding arc types, explains their features, provides guidance for suitable applications, and presents comparisons, benefits, and weaknesses. The study reviews literature to give a comprehensive overview of arc phenomena. The review shows that spray and pulsed arcs generally offer greater benefits than short and globular modes, that controlled short, heavy deposition, and controlled spray arcs improve efficiency and usability, and that it can help companies select arcs for materials and applications while serving as a basis for further research.

Abstract

Arc behaviour is a significant factor in all arc welding processes. Understanding of arc types and their inherent properties can help enhance weld prediction and weld quality and reduce welding cost and production cycle time. Advanced welding processes utilize real-time control and prediction, increasing the need for detailed knowledge of arc characteristics and arc applications. This paper analyses the types of welding arcs used in the welding industry, explains corresponding features and characteristics, provides guidance for suitable applications, and presents arc type comparisons, benefits, and weaknesses. The study is based on a review of the literature, and it provides a comprehensive overview of arc phenomena. The results of this work show that in many applications, greater benefit accrues from spray and pulsed arcs than short and globular arc modes. Controlled short arc, heavy deposition rate arc, and controlled spray arc are enhanced arc processes offering significant improvements in efficiency and usability. This review can assist companies in making appropriate choices of arc and welding process for different materials and applications. Furthermore, it can be utilized as a basis for further research.