Performance analysis of a pneumatic to servo converted system for electrode actuation in resistance spot welding using 304L austenitic stainless steel

A high current, AC waveform controller with C-type body frame of spot welder (75 kVA), was examined for the electrode actuating system whose pneumatically driven system has been redesigned and refitted for the servo based system without any vertical spring assistance in the 50 mm movable distance. Moreover, the pressing mechanism was carefully handled during the entire pressing tasks as to ensure that no catastrophic reaction happens for the electrodes’ caps, electrodes’ holders as well as the other part of mechanical assembly. With the mechanically originated-pneumatic and also the converted-servo systems, the stainless steels are welded for both systems to characterize the improvements. While the welding processes were carried out, the electrical signals have been captured to compute the signals’ representation of entire sequences. Later, the welded samples were underwent the tensile shear test, metallurgical observation and hardness test. The analytical results show distinct changes in the force profiles which has led to profound changes in mechanical properties of welded specimens.