Spectroscopic analysis of a TIG arc plasma

The need for more basic understanding of welding processes has engendered efforts to provide experimental data for use in weld process modelling. To this end, the spectral analysis of a welding arc (TIG) is described. The effects of the anode spot on metallic emission are presented. Measurements have been performed beginning at 0.5 mm above the workpiece and show that the welding pool has no effect on arc properties and that the LTE hypothesis is valid near the plasma axis.