Abstract: A method for butt welding pipe sections together wherein each pipe section has a beveled end includes positioning the pipe sections adjacent one another so that the beveled ends define a weld groove and locating filler material of elongate dimension having a triangular cross-section so that an edge portion thereof protrudes through the weld groove. The filler material is fused to the weld groove by striking an inert gas-shielded arc between a Heliarc torch electrode and the beveled ends and advancing the electrode relative to the filler material so that a weld bead is formed having a convex profile on the interior surfaces of the pipe sections adjacent the weld groove.

Abstract: Portable direct current resistance welding apparatus incorporating a flexible cable assembly comprising a pair of flexible conductors maintained at a fixed distance from one another with restraining means which prevent the separate cables from moving one with respect to the other. A flexible sleeve holds the conductors in parallel relationship to one another at a distance of at least four inches by means of a multiplicity of separating and restraining means fastened to the sleeve at intervals along its length while retaining full flexibility in the cable assembly.

Abstract: This invention relates to a welding torch for practicing the gas metal arc process in the welding of thick square edged plates which are separated by a narrow gap. The torch includes a heat resistant tube for providing electrical contact with the moving wire, means for removing heat rapidly from the end of the torch, heat and electrical insulating means surrounding the contact means, and means for preventing weld spatter from adhering to the insulating means.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring parameters which control the quality of welds made by the rotating arc method. Total electrical energy delivered to the parts being welded is controlled and its analog divided by the time during which this energy was applied to obtain average rate of energy delivered. Total mechanical work done on parts being welded and the mechanical relative displacement of machine platens is measured and work analog is divided electronically by the displacement analog to determine average mechanical work per unit of displacement. The two averages thus obtained are compared to preset levels of average electrical energy and mechanical work which have been established empirically. Indicators warn the operator of any variation from the norm. Separate indications and comparisons are also made of each of the parameters.

Abstract: Apparatus for welding parts, such as pipes, end to end by means of an electric arc which is caused to rotate along the adjacent edges of the pipes. Two separate magnetic fields are used to cause the arc to follow a spiral path along the edges so that pipes having a wall thickness greater than one quarter of an inch may be welded.