Abstract: Improved apparatus and method for performing flash welding is disclosed. The apparatus moves adjacent surfaces of workpieces toward each other and applies electrical energy between them for flash heating the surfaces in a flashing step, after which it forces the surfaces together in an upsetting step, while continuing the application of the electrical energy for a predetermined time. Apparatus is provided for calculating and monitoring the amount of electrical energy applied to the workpieces during welding, along with control circuitry, for limiting the amount of electrical energy applied during the upset step to a predetermined function of that applied during the flashing step. An energy recorder produces an indication of the amount of electrical energy applied to the workpieces during welding.

Abstract: Improved apparatus and method for performing flash welding is disclosed. The apparatus moves adjacent surfaces of workpieces toward each other and applies electrical energy between them for flash heating the surfaces in a flashing step, after which it forces the surfaces together in an upsetting step, while continuing the application of the electrical energy for a predetermined time. Apparatus is provided for monitoring the amount of electrical energy applied to the workpieces during welding, along with control circuitry, for calculating and limiting the amount of electrical energy applied during the upset step to a predetermined function of that applied during the flashing step. An energy recorder produces an indication of the amount of electrical energy applied to the workpieces during welding.