Abstract: A process for enhancing the absorbent surface characteristics of a material having low carbon solubility or whose properties are not adversely affected by alloying with carbon comprises the step of mixing the material with lampblack in order to deposit a coating of lampblack on the material. Furthermore, the lampblack acts as a deoxidizing and fluxing agent to clean the substrate surface and promote effective wetting by the molten material during a laser processing procedure.

Abstract: A method of welding utilizing consumable and non-consumable electrodes blanketed with inert gas to weld with a minimal amount or no preheating.

Abstract: An electrical conductor connection between at least two aluminum conductors which includes a weld nugget having a substantially cylindrical cross-sectional configuration perpendicular to the major surfaces of the aluminum conductors. The ends of the weld nugget are convexly cupped and extend outwardly past the major surfaces of the aluminum conductors to provide visual verification of joint integrity. The electrical conductor connection is formed by a method which includes providing an aperture in one of the conductors to be joined and providing a recessed backup against the other conductor, aligned with the aperture. Timed, multiple sequence MIG arc spot welding provides a weld nugget having the desired shape and diameter at the interface or throat between the two conductors. The method also enables the welding operation to be performed out of position, without sag or run of the molten pool of aluminum.