Abstract: A feeding unit for joining elements includes a connector coupling having a connector plug and a connector socket which may be placed in a connected state or disconnected state with respect to each other. The connector plug has a passage formed around a passage axis ZS. The connector socket likewise has a passage formed around a passage axis ZB. In the connected state of the connector plug and connector socket, the axes ZS and ZB are aligned with each other along an alignment axis ZF to allow the flow of joining elements through the connector coupling. When the connector plug and socket are placed in the disconnected state, a locking element of the connector plug moves to a locked position to block joining elements from passing through the disconnected coupling socket.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of monitoring the welding operation in a stud welding process, wherein a part (19) to be welded is immersed into the melt by moving the part (5) towards a workpiece (17), with a physical quantity depending on the force required for moving the part (5) being measured at least during the phase of immersion of the part (19) to be welded into the melt and the measured gradient of the physical quantity plotted against time being compared with a predetermined set gradient. Furthermore, the invention relates to a stud welding device for carrying out such a method.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of monitoring the welding operation in a stud welding process, wherein a part (19) to be welded is immersed into the melt by moving the part (5) towards a workpiece (17), with a physical quantity depending on the force required for moving the part (5) being measured at least during the phase of immersion of the part (19) to be welded into the melt and the measured gradient of the physical quantity plotted against time being compared with a predetermined set gradient. Furthermore, the invention relates to a stud welding device for carrying out such a method.

Abstract: The device proposed is designed to weld together at least two parts (1, 2) using arc-welding or resistance-welding, in particular pressure arc-welding, techniques. An arc is struck across a gap between the two parts (1 and 2), thus causing them to melt. In oder to ensure a very precisely defined vertical gap between the parts, the second part (2) is first placed on the first. The final position, determined by a program-control unit (12), is measured by means of a travel-measurement instrument (10). Starting from this "zero position", the bolt is lifted through a freely programmable distance and the main welding current activated. On expiry of the prescribed period of time, the bolt on the second part (2) is moved towards the first part (1), this movement also being carried out under program control.