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??? Frequently Asked Questions ???
Q·Is it safe?
A·Yes, the output of the KwikWeld is under 10 volts. The KwikWeld relies on its ability to deliver a high current pulse in an extremely short amount of time to develop its welds. Like many pieces of industrial equipment, the KwikWeld has a large transformer, which generates an electrical field. Persons or equipment that may be affected by such fields should not be in close proximity.
Q·How difficult is it to learn how to weld with the KwikWeld Microwelder?
A·Because there isn't an arc with the KwikWeld resistance welding system and there is minimal heat, this greatly simplifies the welding process. A welding hood or gloves are not necessary. Typically a person can learn to do many repairs in 20 - 30 minutes.
Q·What preparation is necessary?
A·Surfaces should be free of dirt and grease as well as other contaminates. Anything that is non-conductive such as rust or scale needs special attention and must be completely removed from the weld area and the area where the work plate makes contact.
Q·Are there any gasses or fluxes used?
A·No. Only the welder and the repair material are used. This greatly simplifies the process as well as eliminating contamination of the weld area.
Q·What can I not weld with the KwikWeld Microwelder?
A·The KwikWeld is intended for ferrous metals. It will not weld such nonferrous metals as aluminum, copper, brass and many of their alloys. It will weld nickel to steel but not to pure nickel itself.
Q·How large of a weld can be done with the KwikWeld Microwelder?
A·The KwikWeld is intended for small welding tasks and is not suited or intended for large repairs or structural welding. Repair material is typically .008 to .020 inch thick, multiple layers are often used to achieve the desire buildup.
Q·Can I repair cracked water jackets with the KwikWeld Microwelder?
A·Cracks of any kind indicate movement generally from thermal expansion and contraction. It is unlikely that any welding process will prevent further movement. So, although the KwikWeld could weld a hole and stop a leak, it won't stop thermal movement and will likely crack again.
Q·Can I weld different materials together?
A·Different steels can be welded together, however a couple words of caution, if the weld hardness is significantly different than the base metal it will be difficult to finish-off the weld area without a witness or shrink line. Also if the weld is very large the different thermal expansion of the different materials may cause adhesion problem.
Q·Does the KwikWeld have any special electrical requirements?
A·Yes. Because of the surge requirements of the equipment, it should be on a minimum 20 amp dedicated line.
Q·How portable is the equipment?
A·The KwikWeld weighs less than 50 pounds, so it is very portable. Because of the welders pulse electrical requirements, extension cords should be avoided if at all possible. If it is necessary to run the equipment from an extension cord it should be a minimum of 12 gauge.
Q·How do the different industrial coatings effect the KwikWeld welding process?
A·Titanium Nitride (gold coating) is very conductive so has little effect on welding. Black oxide coating is non-conductive and must be completely removed. Nitrided surfaces are more than a coating and penetrate the metals surface, generally, they are not acceptable for any type of welding. There are many other coatings available, however to generalize, if they are conductive it is possible to weld without removing them. It is probably a better practice to remove them so that they don't contaminate the weld.
Q·How is the hardness of the mold steel affected by welding with the KwikWeld?
A·The amount of heat that if applied during the KwikWeld welding process is so localized and quenched so rapidly by the surrounding metal that there won't be the halo effect or witness line around a weld as with other welding processes. This witness line or halo effect is actually an area surrounding a weld which has had its hardness altered by the welding process. Along with being slightly softer it is also generally lower than the surrounding metal. Hence, the common name "sink line". This makes finishing the weld very difficult. The area must actually be dressed back below its' original dimension before it will polish. This is probably the single best reason to use the KwikWeld Microwelder.
Q·How can I weld a part that is extremely small?
A·Although the heat applied during the KwikWeld process is very closely controlled, there may be a heat build up if the part is very small. This can be controlled by slowing the weld process down and using a larger piece of metal to help sink the heat away from the weld area.
Q·How do I get my KwikWeld serviced if it ever needs it?
A·The KwikWeld is completely made and assembled in the U.S. Units can be returned the following business day after they are received.
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