Linde Gases’ ARCLINE PP promises to yield high-quality aluminium welds

Linde Group owned Linde Gases has launched the ARCLINE PP, a novel automated welding process that produces highly efficient aluminium welds by combining the best of existing aluminium welding technologies in one comprehensive package.

Linde’s technology team has designed ARCLINE PP eliminating the compromises made while choosing between Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding and Metal Inert Gas welding (MIG). While the first process ensures high quality at longer weld times, the latter gives faster weld times but lesser aluminium weld strength and integrity.

According to Linde Technology, ARCLINE PP features a positively energised tungsten electrode that provides constant cathodic cleaning of the welding area, which reduces the risk of inclusions and minimises the need for pre-weld cleaning. The process uses two separate gas streams whereas other welding technologies employ only one. ARCLINE PP employs an outer shroud of shielding gas to protect the weld from impurities, and an inner stream to increase power density and improve arc stability. Further, ARCLINE PP is equipped with a sophisticated liquid cooling system to extend the electrode’s lifecycle.

“ARCLINE PP is a strong addition to our welding portfolio, and ensures durable and innovative aluminium welding without having to make compromises previously experienced when selecting either TIG or MIG welding,” Martin Ball, Global Head of Commercial Management, Secondary Industries, Linde, said.

“By offering the high welding speeds associated with MIG in symbiosis with the high quality expected from TIG, ARCLINE PP is the perfect solution of minimal preparation and post-processing at extraordinary speed. It also generates significantly less fume emissions than MIG, enhancing occupational safety,” he added.