Oxford Sensors improves tack welding automation

The UK based manufacturer of laser vision systems for welding, Oxford Sensors Ltd (OSL), has announced a new version of its OSTrack laser seam tracking system with advanced functionality for pipe mill tack welders.

While laser seam tracking has been used for tack welders for a number of years, SL’s new development uses the joint profile analysis for automatic hilo control of the pipe forming hydraulics. This aids reliable pipe formation, improving pipe quality.

The new function has been made possible by a combination of the high integrity joint profile from the OSL laser sensor and improved software profile analysis and control. The OSTrack system has already been installed on several tack welders.

OSL’s managing director Bob Beattie said: “Our OSL-50A laser sensor combines high quality optics in a rugged, robust enclosure to make sure that the sensor can cope with the challenging environment of the typical tack welder. High welding speeds over 5m/min are common on tack welders and the system is able to operate smoothly at those speeds. The system has a user-friendly graphical interface, so the tack welder operator can easily monitor system operation.”