Dr. Livingstone, I Presume WELDWISE 2400 - Manual (Page 10)

0428-INS-400 Rev. E
1-2
Variables in the Welding Process
The many variables involved in welding can be broadly categorized into two basic sections: process
variables and material variables.
Process variables include: Material variables include:
• Weld current • Coating thickness and type
• Squeeze time • Part fit-up
• Weld time
• Hold time • Surface condition & cleanliness of
materials
• Electrode force
• Design of the electrode
• Workpiece material
The Weld Cycle
A typical resistance weld is broken down into several distinct periods, as shown in figure 1-1 below:
The Squeeze Time is when the weld heads (electrodes) come together and build up to a specified
amount of force before the current is fired.
The Weld Time is when the current is actually passing through the workpieces. This is when the
metals are being heated enough to melt and fuse together to form what is called a weld nugget.
Figure 1-1 A typical weld cycle