Linde Gases, part of the Linde Group (www.linde.co.uk), has launched ArcLine PP — an automated welding process designed to produce aluminium welds by combining the best of existing technologies in a single package.

ArcLine PP has been developed to eliminate the compromises made when choosing between TIG welding, which typically ensures higher quality at longer weld times, and MIG welding, which has faster weld times but cannot match the quality of TIG.

The technology features a positively energised tungsten electrode that provides constant cathodic cleaning of the welding area to reduce the risk of inclusions and minimise the need for pre-weld cleaning.

Furthermore, two separate gas streams are used, whereas other welding technologies use only one.

ArcLine PP features an outer shroud of shielding gas to protect the weld from impurities, and an inner stream to increase power density and improve arc stability.

The process also features a liquid cooling system to extend electrode life.

ArcLine PP, which is said to generate significantly less fume emissions than MIG, is intended as a package solution that can provide all the components needed to optimise aluminium welding.

This package includes a power source (it is possible to use any existing sources in place for TIG-AC welding), a wire-feed unit, a connector box that allows universal connection of the torch to different types of welding machines, and an automatic height control unit for constant arc length.

Linde says that ArcLine PP is particularly suitable for use by manufacturers of trains, road tankers and chemical tanks, as well as those producing ship and aerospace components.