Stud Welding Methods

Capacitor Discharge (CD) Stud Welding:

Capacitors are charged to a predetermined setting on the power supply. When triggered, the stored energy is "discharged" and the burst of electricity creates the molten pool. The gun pushes the stud down into the molten pool. CD studs have a special tip on the end that is consumed during the weld.

Application Recommendations: For non-structural applications with a rapid attachment and an undisturbed backside finish.

Drawn Arc Stud Welding:

With drawn arc stud welding, the operator uses a weld tool, or gun, to place the stud against the base metal. When triggered, an electric solenoid in the gun lifts the stud to a preset height off the base metal. The drawn arc melts the base of the stud and the base metal, creating a molten pool. The gun then forces the stud down into the molten pool and the molten material is held in place with a ceramic ferrule until the weld is formed.

Application Recommendations: For structural stud welding using large-diameter studs, ferrules, and an aluminum flux.

Short Cycle Stud Welding:

Similar to drawn arc stud welding, short cycle stud welding happens over a shorter time period of 20 ms to 30 ms. It is also for thin sheet metal and is used almost exclusively in industrial and automotive applications. It is typically used for small-diameter studs less than 1/2 in.

Application Recommendations: For semi-structural applications with a rapid attachment and an undisturbed backside finish.