Due to the importance of variable polarity in MIG/MAG welding (MIG/MAG-PV) with great potential for overlaying and root pass applications, it is fundamental to assess the effect of process parameters on the bead formation and wire-burn rate, specially the latter, since higher melting rate is achieved by this process during negative polarity. Therefore, this work aims to assess the effect of two different waveforms previously investigated, in which current pauses before and after the main pulse during positive polarity (this condition leads to better stability). The shielding gas effect was also investigated for the bead geometry (width, penetration and reinforcement), melting rate, deposition rate and deposition efficiency. Bead-on-plate weldments were carried out over SAE 1020 carbon steel with MIG/MAG-PV welding at 30 and 50% of time in negative polarity. The employed shielding gases were Ar+2%O2, Ar+5%O2, Ar+8%CO2 and Ar+15%CO2. The arc length was kept approximately the same during the runs by varying the wire-feed speed. Also, the relationship between wire-feed speed and travel speed was kept constant in order to keep the same amount of deposited material. It is possible to conclude that the better understanding on the relationship among bead geometry, parameters and consumables leads to assure a desired bead profile, in accordance with a given application. Moreover, the melting rate analysis allows selecting more coherent parameters and consumables to assure lower material losses and high productivity.
Variable Polarity; Waveform; MIG
