Patent ID: 7371994
Filing Date: 2008-05-13
Classification: B23K

Abstract:
1. A method of making a weldment comprising an integrally backed square butt joint, said method comprising: positioning a first component in an abutting relationship with at least a portion of a second component and a third component underlying said abutting relationship between said first component and said second component, said components being metallurgically compatible; positioning a consumable metal electrode near said abutting relationship between said first component and said second component, said consumable metal electrode being metallurgically compatible with said components; applying an electric potential to said electrode relative to an electric potential of said components; developing an arc between said electrode and said components; causing said arc to at least partially bury itself in said abutting relationship, said arc forming a cavity for itself and for a pool of molten metal whereby said pool of molten metal penetrates into said third component; maintaining an electric potential and current of said arc at values appropriate for buried arc welding; feeding said electrode to maintain a tip of said electrode at a distance appropriate for buried arc welding; and moving said electrode along said abutting relationship between said first component and said second component, wherein said arc and said cavity are likewise moved, and wherein said molten metal solidifies behind said arc to form a weld bead joining said first component to said second component and to said third component, wherein said components are joined, thereby forming said weldment.