Abstract: A purging arrangement for a welding system uses automatic flow control function, such as an MFC, to control purge gas flow rate and/or pressure at the weld site.

Abstract: Purge gas apparatus and method for a welding system uses automatic purge gas flow control function, such as an MFC, to control ID and/or OD purge gas flow rate or purge gas pressure or both at the weld site.

Abstract: A purging system for an arc welder is disclosed wherein the purging system comprises a control system (20), at least one automatic flow control arrangement (MFC) for a purge gas (28, 30), said flow control arrangement (WIFC) being operably associated with said control system (20), said control system (20) controlling operation of said at least one automatic flow control (MFC) to control flow rate of purge gas (28, 30) to a weld site (W) during a welding operation. An apparatus for purge control of a welding system is disclosed wherein the apparatus comprises a control system (20) and a mass flow controller (MFC), said mass flow controller (MFC) comprising an input that receives a purge gas (28, 30) and an output that provides purge gas (28, 30) to a weld site (W) during a welding operation, said control system adjusting flow of purge gas (28, 30) to the weld site (W) during a welding operation.

Abstract: An orbital welding apparatus includes a first housing defining a weld head assembly and a circular rotor disposed therein for rotation about a first axis. A welding electrode is carried by the rotor for welding. A second housing separate from the first housing forms a power transmission and has a second drive shaft extending therefrom. A flexible drive shaft connects the first drive shaft and the second drive shaft to conduct rotary drive forces from the first drive shaft to the second drive shaft while permitting the relative orientations of the first and second housings to be freely adjustable. A third and independent housing carries an electric drive motor and forms a power drive motor module with a rotary output shaft. A releasable clamping mechanism is provided for positioning and holding cylindrical members to be welded in an axially aligned relationship with their ends abutting in a single plane.