A novel optimizing Pulsed Plasma Gas Variable Polarity Plasma Arc Welding (PPG-VPPAW) method for improving weld quality

Abstract

To enhance the reliability of aluminum alloy welding quality, a novel Pulsed Plasma Gas Variable Polarity Plasma Arc Welding (PPG-VPPAW) system is proposed. This system enables independent control and rapid adjustment of the plasma gas, allowing for flexible modulation of arc pressure output under constant thermal conditions, thereby reducing porosity and refining grain structure. The research analyzed the impact of parameters of different plasma gas on arc characteristics, welding porosity, and welding microstructure. The results reveal that the periodic changes in pulsed plasma gas induce corresponding variations in arc temperature, arc shape, arc pressure, arc voltage, and the morphology of the weld pool keyhole. The magnitude of the difference between the base value and peak value of pulsed plasma gas determines the extent of arc pressure fluctuations and the behavior of the backside keyhole. The maximum oscillation amplitude of the backside keyhole can reach up to 4.5 mm². Additionally, the oscillation of pulsed plasma gas within the molten pool has been demonstrated to effectively reduce weld porosity and refine grain size. Under this process, the grain size of the weld metal can be reduced by up to approximately 25%. Current work provides an important direction for fabricating highly reliable aluminum alloy weldments.