Technical Paper
Understanding the Process Mechanisms Is Key to Reliable Resistance Spot Welding Aluminum Auto Body Components
1984-02-01
840291
This paper describes work conducted to understand the process mechanisms which cause electrode deterioration and inconsistent weld quality when welding aluminum auto body sheet. Surface objectives were found to be different at the outer and inner surfaces of the sheet. Various surface treatments were investigated and compared to arrive at an optimum treatment. Best overall results were obtained with a conversion coated inner surface and an arc-cleaned outer surface applied immediately before welding. Results were verified with an extended life test which produced more than 7,000 welds without a dud.
