Oscillator is a welding device that facilitates the appropriate work with elements made of aluminum, other non-ferrous metal and stainless steel. Such a device helps to effectively ignite the welding arc and maintain its stability. The device has both industrial and domestic applications.
How does the unit work?
The oscillator, the principle of operation of which is to form a high-frequency transformer to recharge the capacitor and maintain a further specific arc size, consists of the following elements:
- Step-up low-frequency transformer (PT) with a secondary voltage of 2-3 kW.
- Gas gap (transfer device).
- Inductive oscillation circuit.
- Working capacity.
- Blocking capacitor.
- Safety winding.
Through the last element, the high frequency oscillation capacitor touches the arc formation. In it, the power supply voltage is not subject to shunting. The inductor, which interacts with the working circuit, acts as a winding insulator in the apparatus against breakdown. The most commonly used brewing oscillators, the power of which is250-300 W. Literally a tenth of a second is enough for the duration of the pulses.
Pulse devices
Oscillator is a device that is divided into two types. A device with a pulsed supply allows you to provoke its constancy at the initial occurrence of an arc with alternating current. During welding, fluctuations in the current used may occur, which can sometimes cause deterioration in the quality of work. To avoid this, the oscillators are synchronized.
Often, to initiate a non-contact arc, pulse-type generators are used, in which there are accumulative reservoirs recharged from a special device. Taking into account the fact that the phase change of the welding current in the working process is not always stable, to organize the reliable functionality of the generator, a device is required that synchronizes the discharge of the capacitance in cases where the current from the arc passes through zero.
On alternating current, the oscillator is used for welding both conventional electrodes and elements used for working with stainless steel, non-ferrous metals, and argon processing.
Continuous units
Such devices operate synchronously with the supply source. The excitation process occurs by applying high voltage and frequency to the current-carrying parts. This current does not pose a danger to the worker, but it is capable of initiating a welding arc without contact between the electrode and the workpiece, and due to the high frequency, sufficient arc burning is maintained.
Oscillator, the types of which are connected in series, are considered more efficient. It does not require activation in the source circuit of a special protective system against excessive voltage. The coil is connected in series to the arc. During operation, the spark gap emits a small crackle.
With the unit turned off from the network, the adjusting screw can be used to correct the spark gap in the range from 1.5 to 2 millimeters. The installation of such equipment should be trusted to specialists, since unprofessional installation may endanger the he alth and life of the worker operating the device.
Operating conditions
An oscillator is a device that is required to be registered with the telecommunications inspection authorities. Other operating conditions include the following requirements and capabilities:
- The unit can be used indoors and outdoors.
- It is forbidden to operate the device outdoors in rain and snow.
- The operating temperature ranges from minus ten to plus forty degrees.
- Operation of the device is allowed at atmospheric pressure from 85 to 106 kPa and humidity not higher than 98 percent.
- It is strictly not recommended to use the device in dusty rooms, especially where corrosive gases or vapors are contained.
- Before starting work, you need to take care of reliable grounding.
Safety
To understand what isoscillator, for which you need, you must have minimal welder skills. The main differences between the devices under consideration and the principle of their operation are given above. When working with such devices, certain safety precautions must be observed.
It is necessary to constantly monitor the correct connection to the welding circuit and check the contacts for serviceability. In addition, you should work using a protective cover, which must be removed and put on when the device is turned off from the mains. It is also necessary to periodically check the condition of the surface of the spark gap (clean it with sandpaper from soot).
Where to buy?
An oscillator is a device that you can buy in specialized stores or do it yourself. Its independent production requires knowledge in connecting electrical circuits and the correct selection of components, the main of which is a high-voltage transformer.
You can make a homemade model according to the simplest scheme. The kit includes a voltage regulating (from 220 to 3,000 V) transformer and an arrester that can withstand the passage of a powerful electric spark.
The device is controlled by a button that simultaneously activates the spark gap and the flow of shielding gas into the welding area. Directly, high-frequency pulses that ensure the efficiency of the process are generated by a spark gap and a high-voltage transformer. At the output, such a device has positive and negative contacts. The first one supplies currents from the transformer, is connected to the welding torchaggregate, the second - directly to the processed elements.
Features
In order to independently manufacture this equipment, which greatly facilitates the welding of parts made of non-ferrous metals and stainless steel, it is enough to have minimal knowledge of electrical engineering and skills in assembling electrical devices.
The main thing to consider when assembling and using a homemade oscillator is strict adherence to safety precautions when operating electrical appliances. It is important to adhere to the correct assembly of electrical circuits, and also to use for this only those elements that have optimal characteristics.
Conclusion
Welding device oscillator, what it is, was discussed above. In general, it can be designated as a device that allows you to create a working arc without touching the surface of the processed components with an electrode. It also provides arc stability.
This functionality of the unit is guaranteed by the fact that the electric current coming from the welding equipment interacts with the same high frequency and high voltage. Particularly significant assistance from the device in question is observed when working with a non-ferrous metal and stainless steel. A big plus is the fact that the oscillator can be assembled with your own hands, without possessing superpowers and knowledge of the structure and placement of electrical appliances.
