Murex Transtig DC150-1 and 200-1 TIG welding machines are rugged, easy to use and reliable machines that can optionally be used for MMA welding.
Free literature is available on the Murex Transtig DC150-1 and 200-1 TIG welding machines. These rugged, easy to use and reliable machines offer the option to be used for MMA welding. The robust housing is IP23 compliant, which means they can be used safely outdoors, even in the rain.

They operate off 230V mains supply and incorporate mains voltage compensation for stability in use.

An easy-to-use control panel enables presetting and display of all parameters.

A memory function holds two sets of TIG parameters and two sets of MMA parameters, switching between TIG parameters can be controlled from the torch, as the units incorporate a remote outlet, or from the control panel.

For TIG welding, either HF or LiftArc ignition are available together with up to 10 seconds adjustable pre/post gas flow and slope up/down to optimise weld quality.

Manual or programmable pulse welding assists in the welding of thin materials.

Both units offer up to 150A for MMA applications with automatic hot start and ArcPlus to assist starting.

An arc force capability helps to optimise arc condition and it is also possible to set drop welding characteristics when using cellulose electrodes.

A novel energy saving and monitoring system can be incorporated with noncontact hot air staking systems.
UK company Phasa Developments has released its new energy saving and monitoring system to be incorporated within its standard range of noncontact hot air staking systems. Said Tony Woods, Business Manager Phasa Developments: 'We have increasingly become aware of our customers need to reduce running costs particularly in the area of energy use and the consumption of compressed air'. To fulfil this need Phasa has developed an all-new on-demand reduced air consumption module (patent applied) as an option on all new machines.

The Phasa Air Supply System (PASS) is claimed to save in excess of 50% of a machine's normal compressed air usage within the manifold system, and in real terms this translates to significant cost savings against normal energy usage.

And as energy costs continue to rise the savings will become even more significant.

At the heart of the unit is a logic control system allowing efficient 'on-demand' use and monitoring of the air produced with the further ability to recycle any expelled hot air.

Dry clean air is assured along with almost silent running.

By using an all-new touchscreen operating panel, the system has the additional benefit of being able to record and store the individual piece part processed parameters for download to a system network or hard copy printer, allowing for complete process traceability.

This new development highlights a significant factor in maintaining Phasa Developments as the leading market supplier for noncontact hot air staking equipment; but equally important it provides all its customers with the opportunity for ongoing efficiencies of energy cost savings and improved product traceability.

Investment in a new laser welding system from Rofin complements Mouldline's already comprehensive tool making service. With the new Rofin StarWeld Tool Open, Mouldline is now offering the following services: 24-hour turnaround on most parts; emergency support and repair service (by arrangement); weld-up and return or full repair, including CNC machining of the repaired part; and a full tool making service. The StarWeld Tool Open is a mobile laser welding system designed for repairing tools and moulds.

The laser system is capable of adding material by deposit welding, using wires with typical diameters of 0.25-0.5mm on worn or damaged tools with great accuracy.

The laser also has the benefit of significantly lower heat input than other welding processes (eg TIG) which prevents distortion of the tool, a common concern when using conventional welding repairs.

'Since purchasing Rofin's laser welding system our service has proved extremely popular, chipped and worn edges can be repaired without heat-treating the mould'.

'The welded area can even have better wear resistance than the rest of the workpiece', said Mouldline's Managing Director, Ronnie Cole.

In addition to this, one of the systems outstanding features is that it can do repair work on tools of almost any size.

The unique cantilever arm (1.7m reach) with the fibre-coupled laser beam can process surfaces very accurately in any position, almost like a human arm, with minimal set-up times.

At the end of the arm is a swivelling mount which carries the x-y-z axes and compact focus head.

Normally, a quick adjustment of this arm allows the weld seam to be aligned so that only one axis of motion need be used.

This technique avoids the need to tilt or manipulate large tools, the adjustment being carried out instead at the laser head.

After use, the cantilever arm is folded up and is very well protected in a transport position with all operating elements and cables stowed away.

The high power output (150W) allows moulds in copper and aluminium to be welded at higher speeds as well as the more normal tool steels.

The StarWeld Tool Open Laser system is the latest addition to Rofin's already popular range of laser tool repair systems and now forms a key part of Mouldline's tool making and repair services.

Mill-turning aerospace connectors using Star Micronics' Star SV-32 sliding-head lathe followed by a single shaping operation is getting Doughty Precision Engineering closer to one-hit manufacture
Stainless steel plug shells for aerospace connectors are traditionally produced by Doughty precision engineering (DPE) in three operations, one on a fixed-head lathe and two on a gear shaper. Now the same component is machined 30 per cent faster on a twin-spindle Star SV-32 sliding-head lathe followed by a single shaping operation. The time saving will not end there.

In the same way that DPE and Star initially developed a special hobbing attachment that transferred machining of the shell's ratchet teeth to the SV-32, the Nottingham-based subcontractor and the machine supplier are now working together on another attachment that will allow the slider to complete the remainder of the shaping, ie machining of the alignment teeth.

In other words, a part that used to require transfer from one of three fixed-head, three-axis bar lathes to one of five gear shapers for two additional operations, will in future come off the Star complete.

This will allow one operator to be deployed on different work, reducing still further the already substantially lowered cost of producing plug shells.

Said Peter Doughty, 'Early sliders were able to reduce the original fixed-head, mill-turn cycle by only 20 seconds, so we could not justify the investment'.

In contrast, the 9-axis SV-32 has cut approximately one minute out of the mill-turning, which includes threading, boring, reaming, slotting and broaching.

This is because we get a lot of machining for free by working on a part in the counter spindle while simultaneously machining the next component at the main spindle.

'We have also got rid of one handling operation by incorporating on the lathe the cycle to shape the ratchet teeth'.

'When we transfer alignment key shaping onto the Star later this year, we will eliminate inter-operation handling altogether.' DPE will eventually use the Star, which is fed by an FMB Turbo bar magazine, to produce 10 sizes and varieties of 303, 304 and 316 stainless steel plug shell up to 32 mm diameter.

They account for 40 per cent of the total, as shells go up to 50 mm diameter.

Batch size is typically 5,000-off.

Mr Doughty intends to maximise his company's use of sliding-head technology, pointing out a number of benefits over fixed-head mill-turn centres.

One often-overlooked advantage is that a slider typically draws less than half the power of an equivalently sized fixed-headstock lathe, so are less costly to run, particularly with energy prices rising so fast.

The other main plus-point is the ability to reduce cycle times, as the ganged turning tools and powered tools are very close to the component, so have a shorter distance to travel.

For the same reason, accuracy is often better too.

As to his selection of Star for his first sliding-headstock lathe, Mr Doughty points to the machine's heavy, rigid structure, which lends itself to better accuracy and longevity over many years of 24-hour operation.

He has also been impressed with Star GB's back-up, in particular its assistance with programming while DPE was learning the technology, and the supplier's willingness to help develop the in-cycle shaping operations.

Founded in 1925 by Alan Doughty, Peter's grandfather, DPE is now part of the Nasmyth Group.

The company originally specialised in manufacturing diesel fuel injector parts for locomotive engines.

Aerospace connector contracts gradually took over and now account for all of the business.

Around 40 per cent of output goes to UK customers, with most of the remainder delivered to the USA.

Concluded Doughty, 'During the mid 1990s, we were finding that repeated 'cost-down' requirements from aerospace customers were eroding margins to the point where jobs were becoming financially unviable'.

'It became impossible to manufacture aerospace components economically without minimising the number of separate machining operations, so in 1997 we started down the fixed-head, twin-opposed-spindle, mill-turning route'.

'Purchase of the Star sliding-head mill-turn centre, which has even more CNC axes, has been a logical extension of that policy and is getting us even closer to one-hit manufacture.'

A new single phase range of inverter welders are housed in high impact plastic cases to give better protection in rugged conditions.
Beta Century (UK) has launched a new single phase range of inverter welders in high impact plastic cases to give better protection in rugged conditions.

Comparable machines in sheet metal often cases suffer dents and damage when they are thrown into the back of the van at the end of the working day.

The new Beta Century range with their high impact plastic cases are built to withstand the rugged use which many portable machines and tools have to put up with, in today's high pressure working environment.

The Tradestig DC 150-1 and DC200-1 are versatile portable welding machines capable of welding most materials in thickness' ranging from 0.5 to 6mm.
The Tradestig DC 150-1 and DC200-1 are versatile portable welding machines capable of welding most materials in thickness' ranging from 0.5 to 6mm. They have IP23 protection which ensures suitability for outdoor use and they are also capable of withstanding the toughest of industrial and repair and maintenance environments. The single phase 230V DC TIG welding machines provide both guaranteed reliability and high quality TIG and MMA welding performance.

For TIG welding, both machines are equipped with HF and LiftArc ignition for accurate start procedures and post gas and slope functions for high quality weld start and finish.

For MMA welding, starts are enhanced by automatic hot start or ArcPlus functions which are standard on both machines.

Each package is also supplied with a Tradestig power source, TIG torch and switch, work return cable, flowmeter and a Saffire regulator.

Multiprocess welding and cutting machines offer the ability to arc weld (MMA), TIG weld and plasma cut all with the same machine.
New from Beta Century (UK) are two multiprocess welding and cutting machines to compliment the company's existing range of inverter welding and cutting machines.

The CT312 and CT416 machines have been designed with the building services industry in mind and offer the ability to arc weld (manual metal arc), TIG weld and plasma cut all with the same machine.

Both models run off a normal 230V supply and are generator friendly to give a versatile solution to the problems of in situ welding and cutting for the heating and ventilation industry.

The Murex Transweld Challenger 400 welding package is designed for welding applications within general steel fabrication, the vehicle industry as well as household products and furniture manufacturers. The package, which includes the Murex Transweld Challenger 400 power source, Murex Transmatic 4C wire feed units, a 5 metre connection set and welding torch, is featured in free technical literature. Both Murex Transweld Challenger 400 and Murex Transmatic 4C are designed with a sturdy galvanised metal casing.

Electronically controlled feeding gives accurate and stable arc.

The four-wheel feed mechanism provides positive and stable feeding combined with low wear on the wire up to a wire diameter of 1.6mm.

The Transweld Challenger 400 is a step-controlled power source for MIG/MAG welding.

40 voltage steps provide accurate setting for even the most critical applications.

Wire feed speed, 2/4 stroke, inching, gas purge burnback time setting are made on the front panel of the feeder, giving a good overview of the settings.

Voltage setting and inductance adjustments are made on the power source.

Extra versatility is provided by the three wire feed mounting options, counterbalance and mast, wheel kit or a suspension bracket.

The Murex Transmatic 4C is designed to meet the most rigid safety standard IEC/EN60974-5 with low voltage (42V/AC) operations complete with an overload device ensuring the best possible protection.

Spirex Corporation has appointed George Jansen as North Central Regional Manager.
Spirex Corporation has appointed George Jansen as North Central Regional Manager. His office is based in Overland Park, Kansas. Jansen will manage accounts in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin.

Jansen brings more than 20 years of experience in the plastics industry with injection, blow moulding and extrusion capital equipment.

Prior to joining Spirex, Jansen was the West Coast Sales Director for Rose Plastic, an injection and blow moulding packaging company.

In addition, Jansen has experience working in sales for Krauss-Maffei, as well extensive background in sales and engineering with Cincinnati Milacron.

Jansen graduated from Miami University of Ohio with a BS degree in industrial engineering.

Welding equipment manufacturer Kemppi (UK) has appointed Darren Glover (40) as its new Technical Welding Specialist covering the North of England.
Welding equipment manufacturer Kemppi (UK) has appointed Darren Glover (40) as its new Technical Welding Specialist covering the North of England. Glover will be responsible for providing technical welding and product support covering the whole range of Kemppi equipment as well as carrying out equipment demonstrations and providing advice for both distributors and end user customers. After leaving school, Glover served a full engineering apprenticeship in his hometown of Doncaster, Yorkshire and has since gained considerable experience of industrial fabrications for the pressure vessel, mining equipment and steel making industries.

His employers have included Corus Group, Clyde Bergemann and Outokumpu.

Glover is currently undergoing an intensive programme of internal training at Bedford to become fully conversant with the company's range of welding products.

Glover is single, still lives in Doncaster and is a keen sportsman with a head for heights.

In 2002 he won Gold in the British Freefly Sky Diving Championship category B.

Most weekends with the weather permitting you will find him jumping out of planes.

The Murex Saffire brand is synonymous with gas welding and cutting safety and is currently celebrating its 50th anniversary: David Fell explains key health and safety considerations.
When using gas welding and cutting equipment, the major hazard is fire which can result in a number of situations and can also lead to the creation of other hazards. The risk of fire or explosion due to the release of fuel gases is the greatest danger to safety in the operating environment. This can be caused by loose or badly connected fittings or an excessive amount of time between turning the gas on and igniting it at the blowpipe, ie inadequate purging.

Operator failure to actually turn the equipment off once the job is completed is also all too often a cause of fire.

Fire can also be spread due to oxygen enrichment if too much of it is released during the cutting operation.

This situation is exacerbated if inadequate ventilation is provided in the workplace.

High pressure oxygen also presents an explosion risk if it comes into contact with oil or grease and therefore no gas equipment should be lubricated in any way.

Good practice in the workplace can help to prevent fire and the risk of fire being generated through sparks can be severely reduced by ensuring adequate distance - at least 10 metres - between the work area and combustible materials.

Good practice would also dictate that a CO2 fire extinguisher and dry powder are within reach.

Fire and hot materials provide a burning risk and therefore the use of proper gloves is essential.

Thicker materials take longer to cool down and it is recommended that metals recently cut should be marked with time and date of work carried out.

Remember too that removing components whilst they are still under pressure could cause them to be propelled with force.

Badly fitting hoses could also, under pressure, flail dangerously in the vicinity of operatives.

Indeed, in terms of physical personal protection for the welder, there are risks to all parts of the human body if incorrect procedures are not properly followed.

General physical damage and back strain can result from falling gas cylinders or attempting to move them incorrectly.

Even general untidiness - bad house-keeping - in the workshop creates a risk of tripping and sustaining injury.

Think carefully too about eyes, ears and respiration.

Intense glare and ultra-violet radiation from the welding or cutting process can be prevented through the use of goggles manufactured to EN 75.

The lens must always be appropriate for the strength of the operation being attempted in accordance with EN166/169.

The lens will protect from both glare and stray sparks.

For those who wear normal glasses, goggles are available - some have a secondary clear glass lens for protection when the filter lens is removed to see the workpiece.

Heat and radiation can be a problem when heating or cutting thick or heavy sections of material.

In these circumstances, normal gloves and overalls may not be sufficient and special insulated clothing may be required.

Furthermore, local fume extraction equipment placed down wind of the operation will help both with radiation and fume problems caused by heating lead or zinc coatings as well as galvanised material.

It is common practice to use a personalised fresh air unit for these operations today.

The consequences of flashback, backfire and sustained backfires can be devastating and a whole article could be written on this subject alone.

Suffice to say here that correct working practices (purging of hoses, right choice of cutting nozzle, correct working pressures) are absolutely essential.

However, sometimes the cause of flashback and backfire is beyond the control of the operator and it is therefore vital that the correct flashback arrestors and nonreturn valves are fitted.

In summary, proper personal protection and the promotion of general safety when gas welding and cutting, is imperative.

There is legislation, standards and guidelines to be followed which all companies must be aware of.

There is also the whole area of risk assessment to be considered and complied with.

These factors demand that employers and operators must have adequate knowledge of the process being undertaken and the equipment at their disposal to undertake the work.

Operatives must be provided with proper head to toe protection that not only provides the correct level of protection for the job in hand, but is also comfortable to wear and is worn properly.

MinarcTig is rated at 180A at 35% duty cycle for use from a mains supply or from a generator, making it useful for on-site working in construction, agriculture and the hire industry.
MinarcTig 180 is a new single phase 230V TIG/MMA welding machine from Kemppi (UK). Based on the same lightweight technology and compact concept as Minarc MMA introduced in 2001, MinarcTig is rated at 180A at 35% duty cycle for use from a mains supply or from a generator, making it useful for on-site working in construction, agriculture and the hire industry. Using direct current, it has been designed for TIG as well as MMA welding of mild steel and stainless steel.

It is an ideal and user friendly welding machine for repair, maintenance and fabrication workshops in a multitude of manufacturing industries as well as for use in education establishments and by the DIY welder.

It has all the basic functions needed for TIG welding, including remote control function socket for optional remote control units, including hand remote, remote foot pedal or on-torch control, pre- and post gas settings, Current upslope and down slope settings, HF spark ignition and contact ignition as well as connections for Kemppi's TTC series gas cooled TIG torches, electrode ignition pulse and anti-freeze function.

The ergonomically designed impact resistant reinforced plastic casing even has a place to store and keep tidy reeled welding cables and with the easy to grip carrying handle it is very portable.

The total weight including cables is only 8kg.

The machine is ICS shielded with protection against dirt, dust and light water spray .

MinarcTig 180 is supplied complete ready to weld, including a TIG welding torch, earth cable, carrying strap and a long gas hose.

The user has the opportunity of using a long extension cable to extend the working range of this machine.