Puddle Arc Welding
MMA Puddle Arc Welding is the process of joining carbon steel crane rails.
Preparation for Crane Rail Welding
The rails to be joined together are aligned leaving a prescribed gap between their ends. Rail ends shall be smooth and free from defects and grease.
The rails are set with a slight camber at the joint to allow for weld contraction and copper moulds are placed around and under the joint.
Heat Treatment
Joints are pre-heated to prescribed temperature and confirmed using temperature indicators prior to welding.
The Welding Process
Welding is carried out using low hydrogen electrodes to an approved working procedure by competent certified welders.
This is only a process guide. If you require further details please contact us.
Thermit Welding
Thermit welding employs an exothermic reaction to heat molten metal to permanently join the rail ends.
Preheat
Using a specially designed burner, the moulds and the enclosed rail ends are pre-heated for a time, dependent upon the rail section, to achieve the correct welding temperature of 900 – 1000°C.
Ignition
When the correct degree of preheat has been achieved reaction is initiated in the crucible using a special igniter. Superheated molten steel is produced by an Aluminothermic reaction (the Thermit® reaction).
Weld Forming
At the correct time the tapping system at the base of the crucible discharges the superheated molten Thermit® steel followed by the slag into moulds via the pouring cup.
After solidification, surplus Thermit® steel is removed from the rail head and following an appropriate cooling period, the railhead is ground to profile and the rail aligned and fastened.
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